Easy Herb Spaghetti
A hearty and flavorful spaghetti dish featuring savory Italian sausage, aromatic herbs, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, this comforting meal combines fresh ingredients and bold flavors that satisfy meat lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Slice the Italian sausage.
- Mix together the sausage, chopped onions, and minced garlic in a pan.
- Brown the sausage mixture, then add rosemary and thyme.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if needed, then add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, 1 1/2 cups water, sugar, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.
- While sauce is simmering, cook spaghetti noodles according to package instructions.
- Serve the spaghetti topped with the herb tomato sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked Italian sausage or substitute with turkey sausage for a lighter option. Fresh herbs can enhance the dish, so feel free to add some basil or parsley. This recipe is versatile; try using zucchini noodles for a low-carb variation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the spaghetti topped with the herb tomato sauce and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a delicious finish. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread to round out the meal. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine and is perfect for any Italian recipes night.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover herb tomato sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. Cooked spaghetti can be stored separately to prevent it from becoming mushy. Reheat in boiling water for a minute before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Herb Spaghetti contains roughly 1293 calories, with 20g protein, 304g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (383% of the Daily Value), iron (178% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (175% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1904mg per serving (83% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the Italian sausage and using mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also add more vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
To adjust the spiciness, choose a mild Italian sausage or omit any added spices. For a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce or using hot Italian sausage. Taste as you go to get the desired level of spice.
What can I serve with Easy Herb Spaghetti?
This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it alongside a crisp Caesar salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Garlic bread or breadsticks are also popular sides that complement the rich flavors of the sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).