Italian Sausage with Meat Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory features savory Italian sausage simmered in a rich, hearty tomato and herb-infused meat sauce, served over tender al dente spaghetti, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for a comforting, flavorful Italian classic.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Colander
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Ladle
- Tongs
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Serving plates or bowls
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage links
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 lb (450g) spaghetti
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Italian sausage links and ground beef form the protein base, so using high-quality sausage with natural casings can enhance texture and flavor. Fresh garlic and onion provide essential aroma and depth, so finely chop them to release maximum flavor during sauteing. The combination of crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste ensures a balanced richness and thickness in the sauce; avoid substituting with fresh tomatoes as it may alter the sauce's consistency. Dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary complement the tomato base, but use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the savory profile. Your Italian Sausage with Meat Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory copycat menu will stand out when these ingredients are layered carefully to replicate the original's hearty, comforting taste.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Prepare all ingredients by finely chopping the onion, mincing the garlic, and chopping the parsley.
- Slice Italian sausage links into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add Italian sausage slices and cook until browned on all sides; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste.
- Add browned sausage back into the sauce.
- Add dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, red pepper flakes, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix the sauce well, bring to a simmer, and reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer sauce for at least 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- While sauce simmers, fill a large pot with water and bring to a boil.
- Add salt and spaghetti to the boiling water; cook until al dente according to package directions.
- Drain spaghetti using a colander.
- Taste sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve spaghetti onto plates or bowls.
- Ladle sausage and meat sauce generously over the spaghetti.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Italian Sausage with Meat Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory copycat menu can be adapted by substituting ground turkey or chicken for traditional Italian sausage to reduce fat content without sacrificing flavor. When fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme can be used, but reduce quantities by half to avoid overpowering the sauce. Your tomato products can also be swapped with fresh, blanched, and pureed tomatoes for a fresher taste, adjusting simmering time accordingly to develop the sauce properly. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes gradually to suit your heat tolerance. Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for a creamier texture.
Tips
When slicing Italian sausage, ensure they are evenly sized for uniform cooking and better flavor absorption in the sauce. Brown the meats thoroughly to develop depth in the sauce, draining excess fat to avoid greasiness. Simmer the sauce covered for at least 30 minutes to meld the herbs and spices, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. When cooking spaghetti, salt the boiling water generously to season your pasta properly; drain well and serve immediately with sauce for best texture and taste.
Nutritions
Italian Sausage with Meat Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory provides a balanced mix of protein from Italian sausage and ground beef, essential for muscle repair and satiety. The tomato base offers a rich source of vitamins A and C, along with antioxidants like lycopene that support heart health. Whole servings include carbohydrates from al dente spaghetti, ideal for sustained energy release, and healthy fats from olive oil to aid nutrient absorption. Your meal is further enhanced by fresh parsley and Parmesan, which add calcium and vitamins, contributing to overall nutritional value.
Storage
Store leftover Italian sausage with meat sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Your sauce can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and can also be frozen for 2-3 months in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. Reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving to ensure the best flavor and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
For a variation, try swapping the Italian sausage with spicy chorizo for a smoky, bold flavor, or use ground turkey to make the dish lighter while maintaining protein content. You can also enhance the sauce by adding a splash of red wine during simmering, deepening the richness. For a creamy twist, stir in a few tablespoons of mascarpone or heavy cream just before serving, complementing the acidity of the tomato sauce. Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of dried for a brighter, fresher taste in Your meat sauce.
Allergies
Italian Sausage with Meat Sauce may contain allergens such as dairy from the grated Parmesan cheese and potential gluten from the spaghetti. The sausage and meat sauce also include ingredients that might trigger sensitivities, like garlic and onions. Be cautious if you have allergies to any of these components to ensure your safe enjoyment of the meal.
Why this recipe?
Italian Sausage with Meat Sauce from Old Spaghetti Factory is popular due to its perfectly balanced blend of savory, spiced sausage and rich, slow-simmered tomato sauce, delivering authentic Italian flavors in every bite. The dish features fresh, high-quality ingredients, including premium pork sausage and vine-ripened tomatoes, ensuring a satisfying and hearty meal that leaves you craving more. Making a copycat version lets you recreate this beloved comfort food at home, allowing you to customize spice levels and control ingredient quality while enjoying the classic taste that defines the restaurant. Your efforts to master this recipe bring the restaurant experience into your kitchen, making it a rewarding culinary project for any pasta lover.