Growing up, I have fond memories of my uncle’s family making spaghetti every Sunday afternoon as a snack. They lived next door, so once in a while, they would share some with us. I loved their spaghetti, which like other Filipino spaghettis, is sweet and consists of sliced hotdogs. I still like it but I have since acquired a different taste for my spaghetti. Our family’s favorite way of eating spaghetti is with Italian sausage and marinara sauce. I learned how to cook this quick Italian sausage spaghetti from my former neighbor and friend. This spaghetti recipe is my go to dish when I am pressed for time. This dish makes my life easy; it uses Italian sausage and store bought marinara sauce. Compared to ground beef, Italian sausage has been seasoned and is more flavorful. The chopped fresh basil adds a punch of aroma while the grated Parmigiano Reggiano adds a deep savory finish to the sauce. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips for Perfect Spaghetti

Cooking spaghetti might seem simple, but a few tips can elevate your dish to the next level. First, always salt your pasta water generously. It should taste like the sea. This is your chance to season the pasta itself, which makes a big difference. Once the water is boiling, add the spaghetti and stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions suggest. You want it al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This texture will hold up better when mixed with the sauce.

Another tip is to reserve some pasta water before draining. This starchy water can help thicken your sauce and help it cling to the noodles. If the sauce seems a bit too thick after mixing, just add a splash of that reserved water until you reach the desired consistency. Lastly, combine the spaghetti and sauce in the pot over low heat for a minute before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully. Don’t forget to finish with a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this quick Italian sausage spaghetti is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to serve it up or switch it up. For a colorful presentation, consider adding some sautéed veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach not only add color but also enhance the nutritional value. Simply sauté them in olive oil before adding the cooked spaghetti and sauce.

If you want a creamier texture, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta cheese stirred in at the end can take the sauce to another level. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving. Pair your spaghetti with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or even a glass of red wine to round out the meal. Remember, if you have leftovers, they make for a great lunch the next day. Just reheat on the stove with a little extra marinara or water to keep it moist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Sure! You can swap in spicy Italian sausage for a kick or even turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that the flavor will change a bit, but it’ll still be delicious.

How should I store leftovers?

Let the spaghetti cool down, then transfer it to an airtight container. It should be good in the fridge for up to three days.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can cook the spaghetti and sauce separately and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them together on the stove for a quick meal.

What can I serve with this spaghetti?

A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely, or you can serve some garlic bread for a classic touch. If you’re feeling fancy, add a glass of red wine to complete the meal.

What are some common mistakes to avoid?

One common mistake is not salting the pasta water enough, which can make the noodles bland. Also, be sure to taste the spaghetti a minute or two before the package says it’s done to get that perfect al dente texture.

Quick Italian Sausage Spaghetti

Liza Agbanlog

Quick Italian sausage spaghetti brings together tender noodles, savory sausages, and rich marinara, topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmigiano. It's a cozy, flavorful meal that's ready in no time.

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 40

Total Time 45

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian

Servings servings

Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients

500 g of spaghetti noodles
1 tbsp olive oil
3 mild Italian sausages casings removed
2 680 ml jars of marinara sauce
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
¼ cup grated Parmigiano Reggiano or Parmesan cheese plus more garnish

Instructions

In a skillet, heat oil over medium high heat. Add the sausages, stirring and breaking up the pieces into chunks. Cook until most of the juice from the meat has evaporated and the meat is brown, about 5 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium and then add marinara sauce. Cover and let simmer, for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the cheese and chopped fresh basil, cover and remove from the heat.
While the sauce is simmering, cook spaghetti noodles in salted boiling water until tender but firm. Drain in a colander and toss with 1 tablespoon oil to prevent sticking.
To serve, in a large bowl, toss hot pasta with sauce and sprinkle with the grated cheese.

Nutrition

Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 85gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 900mgFiber: 5gSugar: 8g

Keyword comfort food, easy dinner, pasta dish, sausage, weeknight meal

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