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Homestyle Italian Sausage Spaghetti

This comforting sausage spaghetti recipe elevates store-bought marinara with the rich flavors of sweet Italian sausage, creating a deeply satisfying pasta dish that tastes like it's been simmering all day. Perfect for family dinners and special enough for weekend gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 1336

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound sweet Italian sausage links
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 24-ounce jar good-quality marinara sauce
  • ½ cup dry red wine optional
  • 1 pound spaghetti
  • ¼ cup fresh basil chopped
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large, deep saucepan over medium heat. Add sausage links and cook until beautifully browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Cover with a lid to help them cook through. Remove sausages to a plate and let cool completely.
  2. In the same pan with the sausage drippings, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Pour in the red wine if using, scraping the bottom of the pan to release all the flavorful browned bits. Let reduce for 2 minutes, then add the marinara sauce and stir to combine.
  4. Slice the cooled sausages into ½-inch rounds and add to the sauce. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
  5. About 15 minutes before serving, bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package directions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  6. Add the drained spaghetti directly to the sauce, tossing to coat completely. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Stir in the fresh chopped basil.
  7. Serve in warm bowls topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and additional basil if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 1336kcalCarbohydrates: 123gProtein: 58gFat: 65gSaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 119mgSodium: 3325mgFiber: 10gSugar: 25g
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