Best Spaghetti Sauce With Italian Sausage
Spaghetti is a classic Italian dish that is beloved by many. While the pasta itself is undoubtedly important, the sauce is what can really make or break the dish. One of the most popular variations of spaghetti sauce is made with Italian sausage. This sausage adds a delicious meatiness and depth of flavor to the sauce that can take it to the next level. In this article, we will explore how to make the best spaghetti sauce with Italian sausage.
Choosing the Right Ingredients
The first step in making a great spaghetti sauce with Italian sausage is choosing the right ingredients. Here are some tips:
- Tomatoes: You will need canned tomatoes for the base of your sauce. Look for whole peeled tomatoes or crushed tomatoes without added salt.
- Italian Sausage: Choose a high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor. Look for sausage with a good balance of fat and meat.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics add depth of flavor to the sauce. Use fresh onions and garlic for the best taste.
- Herbs and Spices: Basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes are commonly used in spaghetti sauce. Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
Cooking the Sauce
Now that you have your ingredients, it's time to start cooking the sauce. Here are the steps:
- Crumble the Italian sausage and cook it in a large pot over medium-high heat until browned. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
- Add chopped onions to the same pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the canned tomatoes, including their juice, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce cook for at least 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the cooked sausage back into the sauce along with any herbs and spices you are using. Let the sauce simmer for another 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve over cooked spaghetti.
Tips for Making the Best Spaghetti Sauce with Italian Sausage
Here are some additional tips to help you make the best spaghetti sauce with Italian sausage:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to cook the sauce. This will help prevent scorching and ensure even cooking.
- If you like a smoother sauce, you can puree the canned tomatoes in a blender or food processor before adding them to the pot.
- If you want a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
- If you have time, let the sauce simmer for even longer than 30 minutes. This will help deepen the flavors even more.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Making the best spaghetti sauce with Italian sausage is all about choosing the right ingredients and cooking them properly. With the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create a delicious and flavorful sauce that will take your spaghetti to the next level. Whether you are cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress.