Spaghetti - Italian Sauce
A hearty Italian sausage spaghetti sauce bursting with rich tomato flavors, seasoned with herbs and garlic. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering, this dish combines savory sausage with a flavorful tomato base, creating a satisfying and versatile meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook sausage until browned in olive oil. Remove sausage and wilt onions in the oil.
- Remove or drain oil from the skillet.
- Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook about 5 minutes.
- Add sausage back to the skillet and simmer, stirring often, for about 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while cooking the tomatoes. If you prefer a spicier kick, substitute sweet Italian sausage with hot sausage. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can enhance the sauce significantly; add them just before serving for freshness. To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta varieties. This sauce is also excellent for dishes like Laham Be-Ajeen.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this classic spaghetti with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top and a side of garlic bread for a complete meal. A simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar complements the dish nicely. This sauce pairs beautifully with Italian recipes, making it versatile for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm the sauce on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This sauce freezes well too, lasting up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spaghetti - Italian Sauce contains roughly 1029 calories, with 27g protein, 165g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (194% of the Daily Value), and calcium (147% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1540mg per serving (67% 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 use ground turkey instead of sausage?
Yes, you can use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to sausage. Just season it well with Italian spices to mimic the flavor of sausage. You may want to adjust the cooking time slightly since ground turkey cooks faster than sausage pieces.
What type of tomatoes should I use?
For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe tomatoes during peak season. If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned San Marzano tomatoes are an excellent substitute, providing a rich and robust flavor to your sauce.
Can I make this sauce vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture. You might also want to add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added depth and flavor.
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).