Homemade Pasta Sauce - Ragu Recipe
Try this Homemade Pasta Sauce - Ragu recipe with tomato and sausage.
Try this Homemade Pasta Sauce - Ragu recipe with tomato and sausage.
- Carbohydrate 27.9081136033076 g
- Cholesterol 270.490967484108 mg
- Fat 110.40358468716 g
- Fiber 3.66716670397744 g
- Protein 46.7340601493644 g
- Saturated Fat 43.8918167368153 g
- Serving Size 1 1 quart (2021g)
- Sodium 2404.22919844505 mg
- Sugar 24.2409468993302 g
- Trans Fat 6.27700403576754 g
- Calories 1410 calories
Step-by-step
- Boil a large pot of water and gently score the top of each tomato.
- Once the water is boiling, carefully drop the tomatoes into the water and blanch for 1-2 minutes.
- Scoop the tomatoes out of the water with a slotted spoon and place in a large bowl of ice water.
- Once the tomatoes are cool, peel off the skins--they should slip right off.
- Chop the tomatoes and set aside.
- Place a large pot over medium heat.
- Melt the butter in the pot and brown the sausage, breaking it apart with your spoon.
- Add the onions and garlic then saute another 5 minutes to soften the onions.
- Add in the tomatoes, chopped basil, wine, tomato paste, 1 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then cover, lower the heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Remove the lid and simmer another 15-20 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
- Drain the pasta and serve with a hearty amount of the warm ragu.
My Favorite Homemade Ragu: A Simple Recipe for Comfort Food
As a busy working mom, time is a precious commodity. Weeknights are often a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the ever-present question: "What's for dinner?" That's why I rely on recipes that are both delicious and easy. This homemade ragu is my go-to—it's hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make.
The key to a good ragu is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. I always opt for fresh Roma tomatoes when they're in season. Their sweetness and texture are unbeatable. Don't be afraid to splurge on good Italian sausage too; the flavor really shines through in the sauce. The aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! I love using whole wheat pasta for a bit more fiber and heartiness, but feel free to use your favorite shape.
This recipe is a lifesaver on busy nights. I often prepare the sauce on a weekend afternoon, store it in the refrigerator, and then simply reheat it on a weeknight. This allows me to have a delicious, homemade meal ready in minutes. Paired with a simple side salad, this ragu becomes a complete, satisfying, and healthy meal. It's a favorite among my family, especially my picky teenagers! The rich tomato flavor blended with the savory sausage is undeniably irresistible. It satisfies even the most discerning palates, making it a perfect recipe to impress guests.
Beyond the weeknight convenience, making this ragu also feels like a little act of self-care. The process of chopping vegetables, simmering the sauce, and letting the aromas fill the kitchen is a calming and therapeutic experience. It's a small moment of peace in the midst of the chaos, a reminder to take time for things that nourish both my body and soul. In today's fast-paced life, it’s those little moments of simple joy that truly matter.
Tips and variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or mushrooms.
- Make it meatless: Substitute the sausage with vegetables like eggplant or zucchini for a vegetarian option.
- Slow cooker option: For ultimate convenience, this ragu can be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply brown the sausage, onions, and garlic in a skillet, then transfer everything to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Freezing: This sauce freezes beautifully! Store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Making this homemade ragu is more than just cooking; it's about creating a comforting meal that brings my family together. It’s a simple pleasure that I cherish, and I hope you will too. So, grab your ingredients, put on some relaxing music, and enjoy the process of creating this delicious and satisfying meal. The aromas alone are worth it!
