If you love hearty, savory, and flavorful pasta dishes, this Sausage Spaghetti recipe is for you! Combining the richness of Italian sausage, the sweetness of marinara sauce, and the depth of garlic, this dish is a comfort food classic that’s perfect for any occasion.
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water for later if needed to adjust the sauce’s consistency.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook the sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat from the skillet.
Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the sausage and garlic. Stir to combine, making sure the sausage is well-coated with the sauce. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using), to taste. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too thick, you can add some reserved pasta water.
Once the sauce is ready, add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss the pasta in the sauce, ensuring each strand is coated in the delicious, meaty sauce. Continue to toss until the pasta is mixed with the sauce.