Introduction

Indulge in a culinary adventure with this delicious spaghetti sauce recipe featuring Italian sausages, all made effortlessly in a slow cooker. This dish is perfect for families or gatherings, as it embodies comfort food with every bite. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating an irresistible sauce that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Italian sausage – 1 pound
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Onion – 1 medium, chopped
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Bell pepper – 1, chopped
Crushed tomatoes – 28 ounces
Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
Italian seasoning – 2 teaspoons
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
Red pepper flakes – 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
Sugar – 1 teaspoon
Fresh basil – for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese – for serving

Prep Time

Prep time for this recipe is approximately 15 minutes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook time is around 4 to 6 hours on low or 2 to 3 hours on high in the slow cooker. The total time for this recipe, including prep and cooking, is approximately 5 to 7 hours. This recipe yields about 4 to 6 servings, making it a hearty meal for any occasion.

Enjoy a delightful bowl of spaghetti smothered in rich, flavorful sauce that is sure to please everyone at your table!

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Italian Sausages

Remove the Italian sausages from their casings if they are in casing. Crumble the sausage into small pieces for even cooking.

Brown the Sausage

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled Italian sausage until it is browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In a slow cooker, combine the cooked sausage with marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, onion, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

Add Pasta

Add the dry pasta directly into the slow cooker mixture. Do not pre-cook the pasta.

Pour in the Broth

Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the mixture, ensuring that the pasta is fully submerged. Stir gently to combine.

Cook in the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 2-3 hours. Check the pasta for doneness towards the end of the cooking time, adjusting as needed.

Stir and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, stir the mixture well to combine all ingredients. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Pasta Type

You can use any type of pasta for this recipe, but short pasta shapes like penne or fusilli work best.

Adjusting Flavor

Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your taste. You may want to add extra red pepper flakes for spice or more herbs for flavor.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to prevent dryness.

Freezing Recommendations

This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or microwave.

Cook techniques

Slow Cooking

Slow cooking allows flavors to meld together, creating a rich and hearty sauce. Using a slow cooker is ideal for maximizing tenderness and flavor infusion.

Searing

Searing the Italian sausages before adding them to the slow cooker can enhance the flavor profile. This technique adds a caramelized exterior that deepens the sauce’s complexity.

Chopping Aromatics

Dicing onions, garlic, and bell pepper finely ensures even distribution of flavors in the sauce. This technique helps in releasing essential oils from the aromatics during cooking.

Building Layers of Flavor

Layering flavors is crucial in sauce-making. Start by sautéing aromatics, then add canned tomatoes and spices, allowing each ingredient to contribute to the overall taste.

Deglazing

Deglazing the pan after sautéing helps capture any browned bits, which adds depth to the sauce. Use wine or broth to lift these caramelized flavors into the mix.

Adjusting Consistency

If the sauce is too thick, wine or broth can be added gradually. If it’s too thin, cook it longer with the lid off to reduce excess liquid.

Resting Time

Letting the sauce sit for a few minutes before serving allows flavors to settle and intensify, enhancing the overall taste.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use other types of sausages like turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or adjust spices for different flavors.

How long can I store the sauce?

The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Can I make this sauce vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

What type of pasta pairs well with this sauce?

Spaghetti is a classic choice, but any pasta shape like penne or fettuccine can work equally well.

Is it necessary to use fresh herbs?

While fresh herbs enhance flavor, dried herbs can also be used. Just adjust the quantity, as dried herbs are more concentrated.

Conclusion

Savoring a plate of spaghetti with Italian sausage made in a slow cooker is a delightful experience. This dish exemplifies how simple ingredients can come together to create a rich, comforting meal, perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite a burst of taste and satisfaction.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetarian Spaghetti Sauce

Try substituting Italian sausage with a medley of fresh vegetables and beans for a hearty vegetarian option that still delivers on flavor.

Spaghetti with Meatballs

Combine this sauce with homemade or store-bought meatballs for an extra protein-packed twist on the classic spaghetti dish.

Spicy Sausage Pasta

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick with their Italian sausage.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Incorporate some heavy cream and fresh basil into the sauce for a creamy variation that enhances the traditional tomato base.

Pasta Bake

Transform your spaghetti dish into a pasta bake by mixing cooked spaghetti with the sauce and topping it with cheese before baking until golden and bubbly.

Garlic Bread Pairing

Serve the spaghetti with some warm, buttery garlic bread for a classic accompaniment that rounds out the meal perfectly.