sausage and spaghetti recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
sausage and spaghetti recipe
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The Best sausage and spaghetti recipe

I’ve been making this sausage and spaghetti recipe for years, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. My family loves it, and it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The combination of flavors and textures is just right – the spicy sausage pairs perfectly with the rich tomato sauce and the tender spaghetti. I like to think of this dish as a classic American-Italian fusion, with its roots in traditional Italian cuisine but adapted to suit our modern tastes.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make – just cook the sausage, heat up some tomato sauce, and serve it over spaghetti. It’s a great way to get everyone fed quickly without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Plus, it’s relatively healthy compared to other comfort foods, thanks to the lean protein from the sausage and the fiber from the whole wheat spaghetti. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this recipe can be made in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when I need to get dinner on the table fast.

My kids love helping me cook this meal, too – they’re always eager to get involved in the kitchen and learn new skills. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too once you try it out.

Sausage and Spaghetti with Tomato Basil Sauce

Sausage and Spaghetti with Tomato Basil Sauce

4.9 from 821 votes

This hearty one-pan meal combines savory Italian sausage with al dente spaghetti in a rich tomato basil sauce. It is a comforting weeknight dinner that comes together quickly and satisfies the whole family.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time35 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 520 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Sausage

12 oz spaghetti
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
Salt and black pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 8 to 10 minutes.
3Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
4While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
6Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
7Reduce the heat to medium and add the onion to the same skillet.
8Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes.
9Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
10Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet and add the oregano and red pepper flakes if using.
11Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
12Let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld.
13Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir it into the sauce.
14Add the drained spaghetti and toss everything together, using the reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time if the sauce seems too thick.
15Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
16Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves.
17Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
18Serve immediately in warm bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 520 kcal🧈Total Fat: 24g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 55g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

Tips: Use sweet or hot Italian sausage depending on your spice preference. For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of red wine after browning the sausage. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Watch Video Of How Sausage and Spaghetti with Tomato Basil Sauce Works

This sausage and spaghetti recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need something quick and easy for weeknight dinner. It’s also perfect for family gatherings or potlucks because everyone loves pasta!

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – you can customize it however you like by adding different vegetables or herbs. To store leftovers, simply let them cool completely before refrigerating or freezing – then reheat them as needed using your stovetop or oven.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sausage and Spaghetti with Tomato Basil Sauce

Q: What type of sausage should I use?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use sweet Italian sausage – look for one that’s labeled ‘sweet’ or ‘mild.’ You can also use other types of sausage if you prefer, but keep in mind that they may have different flavor profiles. If you’re using fresh sausage, make sure to cook it until it’s no longer pink inside.

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of sausage?

A: While ground beef would work in this recipe, it would change the flavor profile significantly. If you do decide to use ground beef, make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned before adding the tomato sauce.

Q: How long does this recipe take to make?

A: This recipe should take around 20-25 minutes to prepare and cook – most of that time is spent waiting for the water to boil and the pasta to cook. You can speed up the process by using pre-cooked sausage or making the tomato sauce ahead of time.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time – simply cook the sausage and tomato sauce separately and store them in separate containers in your refrigerator until ready to serve. Then, simply reheat everything together when you’re ready.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

A: Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this recipe by substituting the sausage with extra vegetables or tofu.

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