This hearty sausage spaghetti is full of bold flavors, combining savory sausages with a rich tomato sauce for a comforting, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Spaghetti:
- 12 oz (350g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta
For the Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or spicy), casings removed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz/800g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for a creamy sauce)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- Fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the spaghetti.
- Cook the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked (about 7-8 minutes). Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Finish the Sauce
- If using heavy cream or Parmesan for a creamy sauce, stir it in and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.
Tips
- Use spicy sausage for an extra kick or mix sweet and spicy sausages for a balanced flavor.
- Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach for extra veggies.
- Pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful sausage spaghetti!