spaghetti with sausage recipe

spaghetti with sausage recipe

The Best spaghetti with sausage recipe

I love cooking spaghetti with sausage for my family because it’s a classic comfort food that never fails to please. This recipe has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m excited to share it with you.

The dish originated in Italy, where it’s known as ‘spaghetti con salsiccia,’ and has since become a beloved favorite around the world. When cooked properly, the sausage adds a rich, meaty flavor to the dish, while the spaghetti provides a satisfying texture.

One of the key techniques in making this recipe is to use high-quality ingredients, including fresh sausage and homemade tomato sauce. This ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

I’ve also found that using a combination of ground pork and beef gives the sausage a more complex flavor profile. My kids adore this dish, and it’s often requested for special occasions like birthdays and holidays.

In fact, my daughter has even started calling it her ‘favorite pasta night.’ As for me, I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – it can be made in under 30 minutes on a weeknight or served as a show-stopping main course for company.

Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious reheated for lunch or dinner the next day.

Spaghetti with Sausage

Spaghetti with Sausage

4.7 from 1914 votes

A hearty and satisfying pasta dish featuring savory Italian sausage in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe combines simple ingredients for a quick and delicious weeknight meal.

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 (mild or spicy), casings removed
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
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 until al dente according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
3Drain the pasta in a colander, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
4While the pasta cooks, heat 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 5-7 minutes.
6Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
7Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet.
8Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
9Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
10Pour the crushed tomatoes into the skillet and stir in the oregano and red pepper flakes if using.
11Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
12Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
13Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
14Add the drained spaghetti and toss everything together, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick.
15Cook for 1-2 minutes over low heat until the pasta is well coated and heated through.
16Remove the skillet from the heat.
17Serve the spaghetti and sausage immediately, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Colander
Wooden spoon
Knife and cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

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

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken sausage. You can also add a handful of spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for extra greens.

Watch Video Of How Spaghetti with Sausage Works

To store leftover spaghetti with sausage, let it cool completely and then put it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. When you reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, and warm it in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave in short bursts.

This keeps the pasta from drying out and brings back the original texture. For serving ideas, I like to top the dish with fresh Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley.

It also works well as a side for grilled chicken or as a main dish with a side of roasted vegetables. Leftovers make a great lunch the next day, and the flavors often taste even better after resting.

This recipe is always a good idea for family gatherings because it is easy to double and pleases almost everyone.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Spaghetti with Sausage

Q: What type of sausage should I use?

The type of sausage you should use depends on your personal preference. For a more traditional Italian flavor, look for sweet Italian sausage or sweet pork sausage. If you prefer a spicier option, opt for hot Italian sausage or Chorizo.

Q: Can I use fresh or frozen tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh or frozen tomatoes instead of canned. Simply chop them up and cook them down until they’re soft and fragrant before adding them to your sauce.

Q: How do I prevent my spaghetti from becoming mushy?

To prevent your spaghetti from becoming mushy, make sure to cook it al dente – that means it should still have a bit of bite to it when you bite into it. Also, avoid overcooking the spaghetti in the sauce; instead, add it towards the end of cooking time so that it retains its texture.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting traditional pasta with gluten-free alternatives like rice-based spaghetti or zucchini noodles.

Q: Is it necessary to brown the sausage before adding it to the sauce?

Browning the sausage before adding it to the sauce is not strictly necessary but does add depth and richness to the dish. If you’re short on time or prefer not to brown your sausage, simply chop it up and add it directly to the sauce.

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