Pasta al Sugo di Salsiccia
Equipment
- Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Skillet or saucepan for the sauce
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Colander for draining pasta
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- Ingredients
- Pasta:
- 12 oz 340 g pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
- Sausage Sauce:
- 1 lb 450 g Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz or 400 g crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving optional
- Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or lentils.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Include red pepper flakes for an extra heat boost.
- Tips
- Sausage Choice: Use high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. If you prefer a leaner option turkey or chicken sausage can be used.
- Pasta Cooking: Always salt the water before boiling the pasta for enhanced flavor.
- Leftover Sauce: The sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to a month.
- Substitutions for Dietary Needs
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta varieties.
- Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta in a colander.
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Sausage:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the sausage to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Make the Sauce:
- Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Plate the pasta and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately with a side salad or crusty bread.