Pasta Recipes Red Sauce Sausage

This flavorful red sauce sausage pasta is a quick and easy recipe that’s sure to become a go-to favorite! Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s absolutely perfect with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan.

You know that moment when you’re multitasking in the kitchen while feeling like a total pro until you smell something slightly…off ? In fact, that was me last week when I turned my back for one second “okay, maybe a minute” and as a result I almost let my red sauce go from rich and velvety to the point that it became a tragic mess.

On the other hand, cooking is all about the little wins, right? For this reason, this fettuccine with red sauce and sausage turns out to be a total win.

There’s something ridiculously comforting about twirling a forkful of perfectly cooked pasta especially when it is coated in a garlicky, slightly spicy red sauce given that it’s loaded with those crispy-edged Italian sausage slices. Not to mention that the fresh basil is an absolute game-changer.

In case you have never made homemade red sauce before there is no need to worry since it’s easier than you think and besides that I promise this one’s a keeper. That being said, just make sure you keep an eye on it.

With that in mind, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Pasta Recipes Red Sauce Sausage

Step one : Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Toss in your pasta and cook according to the package instructions—just until al dente (firm to the bite). Before draining, save about ½ cup of pasta water (trust me, it’s liquid gold for the sauce).

Step two : Brown the Sausage

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the sliced Italian sausages and cook until browned on both sides—about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step three : Make the Red Sauce

In the same pan, add 2 tbsp olive oil and the chopped onion. Sauté until soft and golden. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds (don’t let it burn!).

Now, add the tomato paste, stir it in, and let it cook for a minute to deepen the flavor. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, followed by sugar, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together, lower the heat, and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

Step four : Combine Everything

Return the browned sausage to the pan and stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes, so the flavors meld together. Add the chopped basil at the end for freshness.

Step five : Toss in the Pasta

Add the drained pasta straight into the sauce, along with a splash of the reserved pasta water. Toss everything together until the pasta is beautifully coated.

Step six : Serve & Enjoy

Plate it up, sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese, and garnish with a few fresh basil leaves. Then dig in!

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Colander for draining pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons

Best Tips

Use fresh sausage for the best flavor. You can remove the casing from sausage links if needed.

Let the sauce simmer to deepen the flavors before adding the sausage.

Add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition.

Make it creamy by stirring in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.

What To Eat With Pasta Recipes Red Sauce Sausage

A glass of iced tea, limoncello, or sparkling water

Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks

Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers

How can I make the dish vegetarian?

Skip the sausage and add mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based meat alternatives.

Can I add cheese to the sauce?

Yes! Stir in Parmesan or a bit of mozzarella for a richer taste.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too watery?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes, or add a small amount of tomato paste.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the red sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for later use.

Can I make this sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the red sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for later use.