italian sausage pasta sauce recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best italian sausage pasta sauce recipe

I’ve been making this Italian sausage pasta sauce recipe for years, and it’s still one of my family’s favorite dishes. I love how easy it is to make and how flavorful the end result is.

The combination of sweet Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta is a winner in my book. My kids always ask for seconds, and I’m happy to oblige because it’s just that good.

The best part is that it’s a great way to use up leftover pasta and vegetables, reducing food waste in our household. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe can be made in under an hour, leaving me time to focus on other things.

Plus, it freezes beautifully, so we can enjoy it for weeks to come. I’ve served this at family gatherings, potlucks, and even as a quick weeknight dinner.

Everyone loves it, and I’m confident you will too.

Italian Sausage Pasta Sauce Recipe

4.9 from 714 votes

A hearty pasta sauce made with Italian sausage, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. Serve over your favorite pasta for a comforting meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
1 can 6 oz tomato paste
1/2 cup red wine
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp olive oil
8 oz pasta, such as penne or rigatoni

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3Break up the sausage with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
4Drain excess fat.
5Add diced onion to the skillet and cook with the sausage until the onions are translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
Stir occasionally.
6Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
7Stir frequently to prevent burning.
8Pour in red wine and cook until the liquid has reduced by half, about 2-3 minutes.
Stir occasionally.
9Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet.
10Stir well to combine.
11Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
12The sauce should thicken slightly and the flavors should meld together.
13While the sauce is simmering, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
14Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
15Once the sauce is done simmering, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
16If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
17Add cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to combine.
18Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Pasta pot

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier sauce, use spicy Italian sausage. You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Italian Sausage Pasta Sauce Recipe Works

This Italian sausage pasta sauce recipe is a family favorite that I always make for any occasion. It is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings everyone to the table.

The rich, savory sauce pairs perfectly with pasta and can be served with a side salad or crusty bread. Plus, it’s versatile and freezes well, making it a great option for meal prepping.

It is a perfect dish to make for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in. My family and I love this dish, and I know yours will too.

It is a classic recipe that never disappoints and always satisfies.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Sausage Pasta Sauce

Q: What type of Italian sausage should I use?

In this recipe, I recommend using sweet Italian sausage for its mild flavor and tender texture. You can also use hot Italian sausage if you prefer a spicier sauce.

Q: Can I make this recipe without fresh basil?

No problem! While fresh basil adds a lot of flavor, you can substitute it with dried basil if you don’t have any on hand.

Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

To avoid a thick sauce, make sure to cook the pasta al dente and reserve some of the pasta water before adding the sauce. This will help maintain the right consistency.

Q: Can I store the cooked pasta in the fridge or freezer?

Yes, you can store cooked pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze it for up to two months.

Q: How do I reheat the pasta without drying it out?

To reheat the pasta without drying it out, place it in a saucepan with a little bit of olive oil over low heat and stir occasionally until warmed through.

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