Italian Sausage Spaghetti is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the spicy kick of Italian sausage with tender strands of spaghetti, all coated in a rich tomato sauce. The mix of sausage, garlic, and herbs makes every bite a comforting and satisfying experience. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
I always enjoy making this dish because it’s straightforward but packed with flavor. I like to brown the sausage until it’s nice and crispy, which adds a great texture to the pasta. Sometimes, I toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes to amp up the heat just a little, but you can easily adjust it to suit your taste.
My favorite way to serve this is with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. It’s a family favorite around here because it’s quick, delicious, and fills everyone up with smiles. Whenever I need a cozy dinner that feels special without much fuss, this spaghetti always hits the spot.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian sausage: This brings the main flavor and a nice spicy touch if you choose spicy sausage. If you prefer less fat, try ground turkey or chicken with Italian seasoning instead.
Crushed tomatoes & tomato sauce: These create the sauce’s rich base. You can use canned diced tomatoes if that’s what you have—just crush them by hand or with a spoon.
Carrots: They add subtle sweetness and a bit of texture. If you don’t have carrots, finely chopped bell peppers or zucchini can work well.
Fresh parsley: Fresh herbs brighten the dish. If you don’t have fresh, dried parsley works—just use less.
Spaghetti: The classic choice here, but you can swap in linguine, fettuccine, or any pasta you like.
How Do You Get the Sausage Perfectly Cooked and Flavorful?
Cooking the sausage right is key! Here’s my simple process:
- Use a skillet over medium heat and break the sausage into small chunks.
- Let it cook without stirring too much so it browns well—this adds great flavor.
- Once browned and fully cooked inside (no pink), remove excess fat if needed.
- Add onions and garlic to the skillet after browning for extra flavor.
This method builds a tasty base for the sauce and gives you nice texture in the meat.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – great for boiling spaghetti perfectly without sticking.
- Large skillet or frying pan – ideal for browning sausage and cooking the sauce in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – lets you break up sausage and stir sauce without scratching pans.
- Colander – handy to drain the cooked spaghetti quickly and safely.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping onion, garlic, carrots, and parsley with ease.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use hot Italian sausage for a spicier kick or sweet sausage for milder flavor.
- Add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for extra veggies and texture.
- Mix in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for a fresh, healthy touch.
- Top with mozzarella or pecorino cheese instead of Parmesan for a different cheese twist.
How to Make Italian Sausage Spaghetti?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) spaghetti
For the Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
- Bread or garlic bread for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook, so in total, you’re looking at about 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Spaghetti:
Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually about 8 to 10 minutes, until al dente (tender but still firm). Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. Making the Sauce:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3–4 minutes, until it softens. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds—it will smell amazing!
Now, add the Italian sausage. Break it up with a spoon and cook for about 6–8 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned and cooked through. Stir in the diced carrots, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
Turn the heat down to low, cover the skillet, and let the sauce simmer for about 15 minutes. Stir it occasionally, so the flavors blend and the carrots get tender.
3. Serving Your Meal:
Once the sauce is ready, stir in the fresh parsley to add a pop of color and fresh flavor. Dish out the spaghetti on plates, spoon the hearty sauce on top, and sprinkle with extra parsley and some grated Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve with warm garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the sausage in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This will help it brown evenly and cook through properly.
How Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or sauté mushrooms and lentils for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth if adding extra liquid to keep it rich in flavor.
Can I Make This Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! The sauce tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, then reheat gently on the stove.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Put any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much.