Sausage Marinara Sauce

There’s something magical about a pot of simmering sauce on the stove, and that’s exactly what I love about this Sausage Marinara Sauce recipe. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, and you can smell the rich, savory aroma wafting through the kitchen as the ingredients meld together. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a family gathering, where my cousin brought her homemade sauce. It was such a hit that I knew I had to learn how to make it myself. What I adore about this dish is how simple it is to prepare, yet it feels fancy enough for a special occasion. The combination of Italian sausage, crushed tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables creates a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. I’ve made this sauce countless times since then, and it has become a staple in my home. Not only is it delicious on pasta, but it also makes a fantastic base for many other dishes. Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this Sausage Marinara Sauce is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!

Ingredient List for Sausage Marinara Sauce

Every ingredient in this Sausage Marinara Sauce serves a purpose, contributing to a culmination of flavors that bring this dish to life. The balance of vegetables, herbs, and meat creates a delightful harmony that’s both comforting and satisfying.

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – This healthy fat is essential for sautéing the vegetables and adds richness to the sauce.
• 1 cup sweet onion, diced – The base of sweetness in this sauce, caramelizing beautifully and enhancing the flavor profile.
• 1 cup red bell pepper, diced – Adds a pop of color and a natural sweetness to the mix.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Imparts a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor that’s quintessential in many pasta dishes.
• 1 pound Italian sausage – The star ingredient that provides richness and a savory punch. It complements the acidity of the tomatoes perfectly!
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A classic herb that adds earthy flavor and a hint of Mediterranean essence.
• Salt to taste – Enhances all the flavors and brings harmony to the dish.
• Pepper to taste – Adds a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the other ingredients.
• 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes – The backbone of the sauce, providing acidity and flavor while forming the rich base.

Instructions for Sausage Marinara Sauce

Making this Sausage Marinara Sauce is a straightforward process that results in a deeply flavorful dish. You’ll want to follow each step closely to ensure the best flavor and texture. Let’s get started!

1. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This step is crucial as it releases the flavorful fat that will be used to sauté your vegetables. You want to achieve a nice golden-brown color on the sausage, as this will add depth to the sauce.

2. Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. This will keep it from overcooking while you prepare the rest of your sauce.

3. Return the sauté pan to the heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until shimmering. This step is important because it helps the vegetables cook evenly and prevents sticking.

4. When the olive oil is hot, add the diced sweet onion and red bell pepper to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté these vegetables until they have softened significantly and released their moisture, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to be tender and slightly golden, which will bring out their natural sweetness.

5. Next, stir in the minced garlic and dried oregano. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter. This step is where the aroma will start to fill your kitchen!

6. Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The tomatoes will add acidity and body to the sauce, so ensure they are well mixed in.

7. Return the cooked Italian sausage to the pan and stir everything together. This is the moment when all the flavors come together!

8. Let the sauce simmer for at least 20 minutes on low heat. This simmering time is essential for the flavors to meld beautifully. The sauce will thicken slightly, and you’ll notice a rich aroma filling your kitchen.

9. Finally, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot over your favorite pasta, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Substitutions and Tips

Here are some helpful tips for making the best out of your Sausage Marinara Sauce experience!

• Storage: Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for meal prep!
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
• Pairing: This sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it over pasta, use it for pizza, or as a base for lasagna for a hearty meal.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage or using spicy sausage.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your Sausage Marinara Sauce, the options are endless! Here are a few ideas:

• Pasta Pairing: Serve the sauce over spaghetti, penne, or any pasta of your choice. Top with freshly grated cheese for a delightful finish.
• Pizza Base: Use this sauce as a base for homemade pizza. Spread it on your dough and add your favorite toppings for a delicious meal.
• Lasagna Layer: Incorporate this sauce into a lasagna recipe for a rich and hearty dish that everyone will love.
• Side Dishes: Pair with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
• Occasions: This sauce is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or any occasion where comfort food is needed!
• Storage Tips: Remember to store leftovers in air-tight containers. The flavors will continue to develop after a day or two!

FAQ

Conclusion

The Sausage Marinara Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors that elevates any meal. It’s an easy-to-make dish that can bring warmth and comfort to your table. I encourage you to try making this sauce soon; it’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its rich taste and satisfying texture, you’ll find that it quickly becomes a favorite in your home. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Sausage Marinara Sauce

The ultimate comfort food that warms the soul! This Sausage Marinara Sauce is rich, savory, and bursting with flavors. Perfect for pasta or a hearty pizza base, it's an easy weeknight dinner you can whip up in no time.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Wooden Spoon
• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Cutting Board

Ingredients

  

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup sweet onion
• 1 cup red bell pepper
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• salt to taste
• pepper to taste
• 28 ounce crushed tomatoes

Instructions

 

• In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This step is crucial as it releases the flavorful fat that will be used to sauté your vegetables. You want to achieve a nice golden-brown color on the sausage, as this will add depth to the sauce.
• Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the pan and set it aside. This will keep it from overcooking while you prepare the rest of your sauce.
• Return the sauté pan to the heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat up until shimmering. This step is important because it helps the vegetables cook evenly and prevents sticking.
• When the olive oil is hot, add the diced sweet onion and red bell pepper to the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté these vegetables until they have softened significantly and released their moisture, about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to be tender and slightly golden, which will bring out their natural sweetness.
• Next, stir in the minced garlic and dried oregano. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter. This step is where the aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
• Now, pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. The tomatoes will add acidity and body to the sauce, so ensure they are well mixed in.
• Return the cooked Italian sausage to the pan and stir everything together. This is the moment when all the flavors come together!
• Let the sauce simmer for at least 20 minutes on low heat. This simmering time is essential for the flavors to meld beautifully. The sauce will thicken slightly, and you’ll notice a rich aroma filling your kitchen.
• Finally, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot over your favorite pasta, and enjoy the fruits of your labor!

Notes

Store any leftover sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s perfect for meal prep!

Keyword Easy Marinara Recipe, Italian Sauce, Pasta Sauce, Sausage Marinara Sauce