Sausage and Tomato Sauce Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of savory sausage simmering in a rich tomato sauce to make your kitchen feel warm and inviting. This classic sausage and tomato sauce recipe combines the hearty flavors of seasoned sausage with the tangy sweetness of ripe tomatoes, creating a versatile dish that you can serve over pasta, rice, or even crusty bread.

Whether you’re cooking a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a crowd-pleaser for guests, this recipe is straightforward, flavorful, and downright satisfying. Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your preferences, making it a favorite in any home cook’s repertoire.

In this post, I’ll walk you through every step of creating this delicious sauce, share some handy tips and variations, and even suggest some perfect pairings to complete your meal. Ready to get cooking?

Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This sausage and tomato sauce recipe is a true crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients.

The sauce develops deep layers of flavor as the sausage browns and the tomatoes slowly simmer, resulting in a rich, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Additionally, it’s very versatile—perfect over your favorite pasta, spooned onto polenta, or served alongside crusty bread for dipping. The recipe is also adaptable for different types of sausage, whether you prefer spicy Italian, mild breakfast links, or even plant-based alternatives.

Finally, it’s a great way to bring some homemade goodness to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll love how quickly this recipe comes together, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (casings removed, mild or spicy depending on preference)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz/800g) crushed tomatoes or whole peeled tomatoes, crushed by hand
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a spicy kick)
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves or parsley, chopped for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Can opener
• Serving dish or pasta pot (if serving with pasta)

Instructions

1. Prepare the sausage: Remove the sausage from its casing if necessary. Break it into small chunks or crumble it with your hands for even cooking.
2. Brown the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3. Sauté the onion and garlic: Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the skillet. Cook until translucent and soft, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds or until fragrant—be careful not to burn it.
4. Add tomato paste and spices: Stir in the tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
5. Incorporate tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine everything evenly. Add the sugar to balance the acidity and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer the sauce: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring it into the tomato sauce. Lower the heat and let the sauce simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavorful.
7. Final touches: Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
8. Serve: Spoon the sausage and tomato sauce over cooked pasta, polenta, or your favorite side. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, brown the sausage in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

You can swap out Italian sausage for other varieties like chorizo or breakfast sausage for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a lighter version, use turkey or chicken sausage instead.

For a vegetarian twist, try plant-based sausage alternatives, which work wonderfully in this sauce.

Adding a splash of red wine while simmering can enhance the depth of the sauce. You can also toss in extra vegetables like diced bell peppers or mushrooms during the onion sauté step to boost nutrition and texture.

If you like your sauce spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a creamier version, stir in a dollop of heavy cream or coconut cream just before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This sausage and tomato sauce is a culinary chameleon! Here are some delicious ways to serve it:

• Over your favorite pasta like spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni for a classic Italian meal.
• Mixed into creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
• As a hearty topping for baked potatoes or roasted vegetables.
• Stuffed into warm bread rolls or calzones for a satisfying handheld meal.
• Alongside a fresh green salad, such as a Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas, to balance the richness.

For a wholesome dinner, pair this recipe with a side like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide, which adds fragrant rice and vegetables to your plate.

Conclusion

This sausage and tomato sauce recipe offers a perfect balance of bold flavors and comforting textures, making it an ideal meal for any occasion. It’s straightforward to prepare, flexible in its ingredients, and endlessly satisfying.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just getting started in the kitchen, this recipe will become a reliable favorite that you can whip up with confidence.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sausage types, spice levels, and serving options to make the dish your own. And if you’re interested in exploring more delicious and easy recipes, be sure to check out Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals and other tasty ideas on our site.

Happy cooking!

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