Sausage Spaghetti

Prep: 15 min Cook: 180 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: Italian

A hearty sausage spaghetti sauce packed with flavors from peppers, onions, and tomato paste, perfect for comforting family dinners or casual gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb. sausage (Italian or smoked)
  • 2 diced bell peppers
  • 2 medium sliced onions
  • 2 (15 oz.) cans tomato paste
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 (4 oz.) can sliced undrained mushrooms
  • 1 tsp. basil leaves
  • 1 tsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Cut sausage into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Brown sausage and onions in a pan.
  3. Add peppers and cook a few minutes.
  4. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mushrooms, basil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
  5. Simmer the sauce for several hours, adding water if needed.
  6. Serve the sauce over cooked spaghetti.

Tips & Substitutions

For a spicier kick, consider using hot Italian sausage or adding red pepper flakes. You can substitute the bell peppers with other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a different flavor profile. If you have fresh basil, use it instead of dried for a brighter taste. Browning the sausage well enhances the sauce's depth, making it even more delicious.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty sausage spaghetti with a side of garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top will elevate the flavors. This dish pairs beautifully with Italian recipes featuring bread or vegetables, making it a versatile option for family dinners or gatherings.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover sausage spaghetti in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sausage Spaghetti contains roughly 171 calories, with 12g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (186% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and potassium (33% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

171 kcal 9% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.6g 23% DV
Total Fat 1.5g 2% DV
Carbs 35g 13% DV
Fiber 7.4g 26% DV
Sugar 13.3g 27% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 252.3mg 11% DV
Potassium 1544.7mg 33% DV
Cholesterol 0.6mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 69.8mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 47.9mg 53% DV
Vitamin D 37.1mcg 100% DV
Calcium 56.8mg 4% DV
Iron 4.3mg 24% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you're looking for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, try simmering it uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking. This allows some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) to help thicken it up.

Can I freeze the leftover sausage spaghetti?

Yes, you can freeze the sausage spaghetti! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then warm it on the stovetop or microwave.

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).

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