Why This is the Best Sausage Ragu Recipe
Looking for the best sausage ragu recipe? You’ve come to the right place! This rich, savory, and slow-simmered Italian sausage ragu delivers authentic Italian flavors with minimal effort. Perfectly paired with pappardelle pasta, this bold, hearty sausage ragu is incredibly satisfying. If you’re a fan of classic Italian comfort food, this homemade sausage ragu is a must-try!
What Makes This Recipe Stand Out?
- Flavor-Packed Sausage Ragu: Made with high-quality Italian sausage, tomatoes, and fresh herbs.
- Slow-Simmered Goodness: A deep, robust sausage ragu sauce develops over time.
- Perfect Pairing: Best served with pappardelle pasta or your favorite pasta variety.
- Easy & Restaurant-Worthy: Simple to make, yet tastes like authentic Italian cuisine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Best Sausage Ragu:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional but adds depth to the sausage ragu sauce)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta (or any wide pasta)
- Salt for boiling water
- 1 tbsp butter (optional for extra richness)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Italian Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove excess grease if needed to keep the sausage ragu rich but not greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add onions and garlic to the pan. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes. The combination of garlic and onion in sausage ragu enhances the depth of flavor.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol, infusing the sausage ragu sauce with incredible richness.
Step 4: Simmer the Best Sausage Ragu Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step ensures the best Italian sausage ragu develops its bold, authentic taste.
Step 5: Cook the Pappardelle Pasta
While the sausage ragu simmers, cook pappardelle pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and toss with butter to enhance the pasta’s texture and help the ragu sauce cling better.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Plate the pappardelle pasta and top with a generous serving of sausage ragu sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Expert Tips for the Best Sausage Ragu
- Use High-Quality Sausage: The better the Italian sausage, the richer the sausage ragu.
- Low and Slow is Key: A longer simmer brings out deep flavors in the best sausage ragu recipe.
- Wine Adds Depth: If skipping red wine, replace it with beef broth for enhanced umami.
- Pair with the Right Pasta: Wide noodles like pappardelle pasta hold the ragu sauce best.
- Make Ahead for Better Flavor: Sausage ragu tastes even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Make This Sausage Ragu Ahead of Time?
Yes! This best sausage ragu recipe stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes for 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove for best results.
What Other Pasta Can I Use?
If you don’t have pappardelle pasta, try tagliatelle, fettuccine, or rigatoni. The thick sausage ragu sauce pairs well with sturdy noodles.
Can I Make It Without Wine?
Absolutely! Substitute red wine with beef or chicken broth to maintain depth in the sausage ragu sauce.
How Can I Make It Spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes for a fiery kick in your spicy sausage ragu.
More Ways to Enjoy Sausage Ragu
Looking to get creative with your best sausage ragu? Here are a few ideas:
- Sausage Ragu Lasagna: Layer the sausage ragu sauce with lasagna noodles and ricotta for an indulgent meal.
- Sausage Ragu Stuffed Peppers: Spoon the ragu sauce into bell peppers and bake until tender.
- Polenta with Sausage Ragu: Serve the best sausage ragu over creamy polenta for a comforting dish.
- Baked Sausage Ragu Pasta: Mix with cooked pasta, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
Final Thoughts
This best sausage ragu recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or special occasions. With its bold flavors, easy preparation, and restaurant-quality taste, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Whether you serve it with pappardelle pasta, layer it into lasagna, or spoon it over polenta, the best sausage ragu is a versatile dish you’ll love.
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