Pasta Sauce with Italian Sausage is a timeless dish that brings together the savory flavors of Italy in one hearty meal. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or preparing a special occasion dish, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser. As a single parent, finding recipes that are both delicious and easy to make is essential, and this one ticks all the right boxes. Packed with protein from the sausage and enriched with herbs and spices, this sauce will become your go-to for any pasta night.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Pasta Sauce with Italian Sausage recipe is more than just a meal; its an experience of flavors melding together beautifully. The hearty Italian sausage provides a robust, meaty base that pairs perfectly with the acidity of the tomatoes and the sweetness of the bell peppers. We use olive oil for added depth and richness, while herbs like basil and oregano infuse the sauce with a fragrant aroma that will fill your kitchen. Single parents will appreciate the simplicity and few steps involved in making this delightful dish. What’s even better is that its versatile enough to please both adults and children, offering a harmonious blend of ingredients that aren’t too complex for the younger palate.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (28 ounces) of crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
When preparing your ingredients, make sure to use a good quality skillet to brown the sausage and vegetables. Your knife skills will also come in handy as you chop and dice your way through the onions and peppers. Don’t forget to have a knives set and cutting board that’s reliable as they can make your task much easier.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
The process of making this Pasta Sauce with Italian Sausage couldn’t be simpler. Here’s how to make your kitchen time enjoyable and efficient:
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Begin by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until its browned on all sides. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the skillet once its fully cooked, and set it aside. This crucial step helps render the fat from the sausage, adding incredible flavor to the sauce.
Step 2: Saut the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, and saut the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Stir the vegetables occasionally, ensuring they dont stick to the skillet, until they become soft and translucent. The key here is to extract the natural sweetness of the onions and peppers, creating a wonderful base for the sauce.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet containing the sauted vegetables. Next, add the can of crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine. At this stage, incorporate the dried basil and oregano, seasoning with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together, yielding a richness that enhances the pasta you choose to pair it with.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
As the sauce simmers, prepare your pasta according to package instructions. We recommend spaghetti or penne for optimal sauce adhesion. Once the pasta is al dente, drain it, and serve topped with generous ladles of your homemade Pasta Sauce with Italian Sausage. Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.
Related Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed making this recipe, you might also like our other pasta recipe suggestions like Chef John’s Creamy Mushroom Pasta, the Pizza Pasta Bake with Sausage or if you’re interested in something with a twist try the Cabbage and Smoked Sausage Pasta.
Cleaning Up
After a satisfying meal, make sure your kitchen is as spotless as your plate. Use a reliable cookware care kit to keep your pots and pans in pristine condition. For wooden kitchen items like your cutting board, consider a Cutting Board Conditioner to maintain its longevity.
We hope you enjoy this recipe and that it becomes a staple in your household. Theres something incredibly rewarding about making a dish from scratch, especially one as delightful as this Pasta Sauce with Italian Sausage. Bon Apptit!
