Sweet Sausage In Sauce
Sweet sausage in a rich tomato sauce with peppers and onions, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings, offering bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute cut-up green pepper and chopped onion in oil until tender. Drain excess oil.
- Add chopped tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste mixed with water, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Meanwhile, boil the sausage for 5 minutes, then remove from water.
- Cut the sausage into pieces.
- Add sausage pieces to the sauce and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- If desired, add 2 small cans of mushroom pieces and stems during simmering.
Tips & Substitutions
For a sweeter flavor, consider adding a pinch of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce. If you're short on time, pre-cooked sausage can be used instead of boiling raw sausage. For a different twist, try adding herbs like basil or oregano for added depth. If you like mushrooms, adding 2 small cans of mushroom pieces and stems during simmering enhances the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Sweet Sausage In Sauce over pasta, rice, or polenta for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a balanced dinner. For a delightful twist, consider serving it with Mary'S Cherry Pie for dessert, creating a satisfying end to your meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the sausage in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also add a splash of water to the skillet to keep the sauce from drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet Sausage In Sauce contains roughly 93 calories, with 5g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1333mg per serving (58% 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 different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute sweet Italian sausage with spicy sausage for a kick or use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the sausage you choose.
How can I thicken the sauce if it's too watery?
If your sauce turns out too watery, you can thicken it by simmering it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce, cooking until it thickens.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. This dish is perfect for meal prep and also freezes well for later enjoyment.
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).