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Sweet and Spicy Italian Sausage Ragu


  • Author: Jennifer
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Sweet and Spicy Italian Sausage Ragu is a comforting, hearty dish that combines savory sausage with aromatic herbs and vibrant tomatoes. This rich sauce simmers to perfection, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Ideal for cozy dinners or gatherings, it pairs beautifully with pasta, polenta, or even as a pizza topping.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or sweet)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 28 oz canned whole peeled tomatoes
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves

Instructions

  1. 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
  2. 2. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. 3. Add crumbled Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned (approximately 7 minutes).
  4. 4. Pour in canned tomatoes, breaking them up gently with a spoon. Simmer for about 20 minutes.
  5. 5. Stir in fresh basil leaves before serving over your choice of pasta or polenta.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
  • Calories: 360
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 820mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For a lighter option, substitute Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken. Incorporate bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and color. A splash of red wine can enhance the sauce’s flavor profile.