If you’re craving a hearty and satisfying pasta dish that balances bold, savory sausage with the timeless appeal of spaghetti, you’re in the right place. This spaghetti and sausage recipe is quick, easy to make, and endlessly customizable—from spicy Italian sausage to smoky paprika variations. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will hit the spot every time.
Discover great ideas like our Creamy Garlic Chicken with Roasted Baby Potatoes to add even more comfort to your weekly rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Spaghetti and Sausage Recipe
Fast and Filling
Ready in under 30 minutes, yet feels like a weekend dinner.
Big Flavors, Simple Ingredients
The combo of juicy sausage, garlic, onion, and tomatoes brings restaurant-level taste with pantry staples.
Beginner-Friendly
Even novice cooks can master this meal with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Italian sausage | Adds protein and bold, meaty flavor |
| Spaghetti | Classic base that absorbs the sauce |
| Onion & garlic | Flavor foundation |
| Crushed tomatoes | Tangy, rich base for sauce |
| Olive oil | Smooths and carries flavors |
| Red pepper flakes | Optional heat |
| Fresh basil | Adds color and freshness at the end |
| Parmesan cheese | Optional but recommended topping |
How to Make Spaghetti and Sausage
Step-by-Step Directions:
-
Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water.
-
Heat olive oil in a skillet, add sliced or crumbled sausage, and brown for 6–8 minutes.
-
Add chopped onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
-
Stir in crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes, then simmer for 10 minutes.
-
Return pasta to pan, toss with sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
-
Top with fresh basil and grated Parmesan before serving.
Tip: Want it creamy?
Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a spoonful of ricotta right before serving.
Variations to Try
| Variation | Key Additions/Substitutions |
|---|---|
| Spicy Arrabbiata | Use hot Italian sausage + chili flakes |
| Creamy Tomato Sausage | Add cream or mascarpone cheese |
| One-Pot Sausage Spaghetti | Cook pasta in sauce with broth |
| Veggie-Loaded Sausage Pasta | Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini |
| Sausage & Pesto Spaghetti | Swap tomato sauce for pesto |
Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep
How to Store Leftovers
-
Allow pasta to cool completely
-
Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge
-
For longer storage, freeze in portioned bags or containers for up to 2 months
Reheating Tips
-
Microwave: Add a splash of water, cover, and reheat in 1-minute intervals
-
Stovetop: Heat gently with a bit of water or extra tomato sauce to revive texture
-
Avoid overcooking: Pasta may become too soft if reheated for too long
Meal Prep Friendly
This dish reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day. Great for:
-
Work lunches
-
Pre-cooked dinners
-
Family batch meals
Regional Sausage Styles to Try
| Region | Type of Sausage | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Italy | Hot or sweet Italian | Fennel, paprika, garlic |
| Spain | Chorizo | Smoky, bold, spicy |
| Germany | Bratwurst | Mild, juicy, herbaceous |
| Turkey | Sucuk | Garlic-heavy, spicy |
| Louisiana (USA) | Andouille | Smoked, Creole-style heat |
Making Spaghetti and Sausage Kid-Friendly
Tips for Picky Eaters
-
Use mild sausage with little to no spice
-
Chop sausage into small pieces or blend into the sauce
-
Skip the pepper flakes or swap with a pinch of sweet paprika
-
Serve with their favorite pasta shape (macaroni or shells) instead of spaghetti
Fun Additions for Kids
-
Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella before serving
-
Let kids add their own toppings: cheese, herbs, or chopped olives
-
Serve with a side of carrot sticks or apple slices for balance
Hosting with Spaghetti and Sausage
Family Dinner or Casual Gatherings
This recipe works great for large batches—just double or triple the quantities.
-
Serve from a cast iron skillet or ceramic dish for a rustic feel
-
Keep warm in a slow cooker for buffet-style meals
-
Offer a toppings bar: parmesan, chili flakes, chopped herbs, lemon zest
Make-Ahead for Parties
-
Cook sauce in advance and store in fridge
-
Reheat and toss with freshly cooked spaghetti right before guests arrive
-
Keep extra sauce on the side for seconds!
Looking for another party dish? Don’t miss our Creamy Paprika Chicken—a favorite for gatherings and cozy meals alike.
Nutrition Insights and Healthier Alternatives
Standard Version (Per Serving Estimate)
-
Calories: ~550–650
-
Protein: 25–30g
-
Fat: 25g (depends on sausage)
-
Carbs: 55–65g
Lighten It Up
-
Use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles
-
Choose chicken or turkey sausage
-
Add veggies like spinach, kale, or bell peppers
-
Reduce cheese or skip cream additions
One-Pot Spaghetti and Sausage – The Lazy Day Version
Why One-Pot Works
-
Less cleanup
-
More flavor as pasta absorbs sauce
-
Perfect for camping, dorms, or lazy nights
How to Make It One-Pot Style
-
Brown sausage in a large deep skillet
-
Add onions, garlic, and seasonings
-
Pour in uncooked spaghetti, broth, and crushed tomatoes
-
Simmer covered until pasta is tender and liquid is absorbed
-
Stir, garnish, and serve—no separate boiling needed
Tip: Use thin spaghetti or angel hair for quicker cooking.
Cheesy Comfort in a Casserole
If you’re planning ahead or feeding a crowd, baked spaghetti with sausage is a hit.
Directions
-
Make the sausage sauce as usual
-
Mix cooked spaghetti with sauce and ½ cup mozzarella
-
Pour into a baking dish, top with more cheese
-
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 mins until bubbly
-
Optional: broil for a crispy cheese top
Perfect for Sunday meals, potlucks, or meal prepping.
Regional Sausage Styles to Try
| Region | Type of Sausage | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Italy | Hot or sweet Italian | Fennel, paprika, garlic |
| Spain | Chorizo | Smoky, bold, spicy |
| Germany | Bratwurst | Mild, juicy, herbaceous |
| Turkey | Sucuk | Garlic-heavy, spicy |
| Louisiana (USA) | Andouille | Smoked, Creole-style heat |
Add a global twist by switching up the sausage in your spaghetti.
When to Use Fresh vs. Dried Herbs
Fresh Herbs
-
Add at the end of cooking or as garnish
-
Best for basil, parsley, and oregano
-
Brings brightness and color
Dried Herbs
-
Add early in the cooking process to rehydrate
-
Stronger and more concentrated
-
Best for thyme, rosemary, oregano
When to Use Fresh vs. Dried Herbs
Fresh Herbs
-
Add at the end of cooking or as garnish
-
Best for basil, parsley, and oregano
-
Brings brightness and color
Dried Herbs
-
Add early in the cooking process to rehydrate
-
Stronger and more concentrated
-
Best for thyme, rosemary, oregano
Pro Tip: Use both for layering flavor—dried during cooking, fresh at finish.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
What kind of sausage is best for spaghetti?
Italian sausage (sweet or spicy) is most popular, but you can also use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even smoked kielbasa for different flavors.
Can I make this with jarred pasta sauce?
Yes. Just brown the sausage, add the jarred sauce, and simmer for 10 minutes. It’s a great shortcut.
How do I make it creamy?
Add a splash of heavy cream, cream cheese, or a dollop of ricotta to the tomato sauce before tossing with pasta.
Is this dish spicy?
Only if you use spicy sausage or red pepper flakes. Adjust based on your heat preference.
Can I add vegetables to this spaghetti and sausage recipe?
Absolutely. Try spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini for a nutritious boost.
Spaghetti and Sausage Recipe – A Comforting, Flavor-Packed Weeknight Classic
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
A bold and comforting twist on a pasta classic – this spaghetti and sausage combo is rich, saucy, and loaded with flavor. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that feels like a hug from Nonna!
Ingredients
For the pasta:
-
Spaghetti 🍝
-
Italian sausage (sliced or crumbled) 🌭
-
Onion (diced) 🧅
-
Garlic (minced) 🧄
-
Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce 🍅
-
Olive oil 🫒
-
Italian seasoning 🌿
-
Red pepper flakes (optional) 🌶️
-
Salt & pepper
Optional toppings:
-
Fresh basil or parsley 🌱
-
Grated parmesan cheese 🧀
Instructions
-
Cook spaghetti until al dente, then drain and set aside.
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook sausage until browned. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
-
Stir in crushed tomatoes and season with Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and chili flakes if using. Simmer until thick and flavorful.
-
Toss in the cooked spaghetti and stir until fully coated in sauce.
-
Serve hot with fresh herbs and a generous sprinkle of parmesan.
Notes
Use spicy sausage for extra heat or sweet sausage for a milder taste. Add bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to pack in veggies. Tastes even better the next day!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes