Sausage Spaghetti

Italian sausage spaghetti is the perfect go-to for a busy weeknight. With Italian sausage adding a savory touch to a simple tomato sauce, the dish is full of comfort and flavor. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes! This meal brings that classic Italian taste right to your kitchen without any fuss. Sausage and spaghetti is quick, hearty and sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients for Sausage Spaghetti

• Onion: Chopped onion gives the sauce a natural sweetness and a little bit of bite. For a gentler flavor, use a shallot instead.
• Green pepper: The veggie adds a mild, grassy sweetness that pairs well with the sausage. If you want more color, red or yellow bell peppers work too.
• Olive oil: Olive oil is used for sauting the vegetables, lending a hint of richness to the base of the sauce. If you’re out, vegetable oil works in a pinch.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic brings a bold, aromatic note that really makes the sauce sing. Or, you can swap in garlic powder, but fresh is best for that authentic flavor.
• Italian sausage links: Sliced and cooked, these sausages add a juicy, savory punch with a touch of fennel and spice. For a lighter option, try turkey or chicken sausage.
• Diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a chunky texture and tangy taste that’s perfect for this sauce. Crushed tomatoes are a good choice if you like a smoother sauce.
• Tomato paste: Paste thickens the sauce and deepens the tomato flavor, making it taste like it’s been simmering all day. If you don’t have paste, marinara sauce can work.
• Water: A little water loosens the sauce so it coats the spaghetti just right. To add more depth, use broth instead.
• Sugar: A teaspoon of sugar balances out the acidity from the tomatoes, giving the sauce a well-rounded taste. Feel free to leave it out if you prefer a less sweet sauce.
• Italian seasoning: This mix of herbs with oregano and basil infuses the sauce with classic Italian flavors. Or, you can use individual dried herbs.
• Salt: Just a pinch helps bring out all the flavors in the sauce. Adjust to your taste.
• Pepper: A bit of black pepper adds a subtle kick and enhances the other seasonings. For more heat, try a dash of red pepper flakes.
• Spaghetti: This pasta is the perfect base to soak up all the delicious sauce. For gluten-free, go with rice or a quinoa pasta. Whole wheat spaghetti adds a nice nutty flavor and more fiber.

Directions

Step 1: Saute the veggies

In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and green pepper, cooking until they’re tender, about five minutes. Add the minced garlic and saute for another minute, just until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the sausage and tomatoes

Stir in the sliced sausage, diced tomatoes, tomato paste and water. Mix well, then add the sugar, Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. Stir everything together until the sauce is well combined.

Step 3: Simmer and serve

Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes so the flavors meld together. Spoon the sauce over hot spaghetti, and you’re ready to eat!

JOSH RINK FOR TASTE OF HOME

Sausage Spaghetti Variations

• Add some heat: Spice up sausage and spaghetti with a pinch of chili flakes or use some spicy Italian sausage.
• Make it vegetarian: Instead of sausage, use sauteed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative for a hearty meat-free meal.
• Upgrade with cheese: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan just before serving for a creamy twist.

How to Store Sausage Spaghetti

Cool leftovers completely before storing them in a resealable container in the fridge. Reheat the sauce on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed. Warm the spaghetti in the microwave or by briefly dipping it in boiling water. Make sure to reheat the sausage and spaghetti until the dish is hot all the way through before serving.

How long does sausage spaghetti last?

Italian sausage spaghetti will keep in the fridge for up to four days when stored properly.

Sausage Spaghetti Tips

JOSH RINK FOR TASTE OF HOME

Can you use different pasta shapes?

Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni or fusilli would work well and hold the sauce nicely.

What should you serve with Italian sausage spaghetti?

Serve sausage and spaghetti with a salad or garlic bread. Roasted veggies also make a great addition.

How can you thicken the sauce?

If you like a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered or stir in extra tomato paste. A sprinkle of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water will also do the trick.

Is this dish dairy-free?

Yes, it is! Just skip the optional cheese topping or use a dairy-free alternative if desired.