Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu (Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Instant Pot)

There’s nothing more comforting than rich and hearty Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu! This exquisite dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion. The slowly simmered sauce melds together sweet and spicy ground beef sausage with fresh vegetables, herbs, and tomatoes to create a luscious ragu that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta. Whether you choose to use the stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, this recipe ensures a flavorful experience that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavor: The blend of beef sausage and fresh herbs creates a rich and satisfying taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it over pasta, gnocchi, or creamy polenta for different delightful meals.
• Easy Preparation: With various cooking methods available, anyone can enjoy this delicious ragu without stress.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or date night, this dish fits all occasions beautifully.
• Meal Prep Friendly: You can make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment without losing flavor.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Liquid measuring cup
• Sharp knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot: Provides even heat distribution, perfect for simmering sauces over long periods without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware while allowing you to scrape up browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures precise ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.

Ingredients

For the Ragu

• 1 ½ pounds fresh Italian sausage of choice (see Recipe Notes)
• 3 large carrots, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 8 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• one 6-ounce can tomato paste
• 1 cup dry, unoaked white apple vinegar
• one 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
• 8-10 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 dried bay leaves
• optional: 1 parmesan rind
• 2 cups chicken stock or water
• kosher salt and ground black pepper, to season

For Serving

• 16 ounces rigatoni or pasta of choice
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated parmesan or pecorino romano cheese
• for serving as desired: grated parmesan, finely chopped fresh herbs

How to Make Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu (Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Instant Pot)

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Add the olive oil to a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot and shimmering:
1. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion.
2. Season with kosher salt and stir.
3. Cook until browned and fragrant (about 15–20 minutes), stirring occasionally. If browning too quickly, reduce heat to medium.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Push the vegetable mixture to the edges of the pot:
1. Add the Italian sausage in the center.
2. Let it brown for 2–3 minutes before turning it over.
3. Brown the second side for another 2–3 minutes then break into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste

Mix in garlic and tomato paste:
1. Stir well to coat everything.
2. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Deglaze by slowly pouring in white apple vinegar while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes & Herbs

Tie together fresh herbs (or chop if preferred) then add them:
1. Include crushed tomatoes along with bay leaves and chicken stock or water (start with about 1 cup).
2. Stir everything together until combined.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce

Bring your ragu sauce to a boil:
1. Reduce heat to medium-low maintaining a gentle simmer.
2. Partially cover with a lid allowing some steam to escape.
3. Simmer for about 90 minutes; stir occasionally.

Step 6: Cook Pasta

About 20 minutes before your ragu is ready:
1. Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. Add rigatoni and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Reserve about 1 cup of starchy pasta water before draining.

Step 7: Combine Pasta & Ragu

Reheat ragu sauce if necessary:
1. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
2. Toss cooked rigatoni into the sauce until well coated.
3. Adjust consistency using reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 8: Serve

Portion into bowls:
1. Top with additional grated parmesan or herbs as desired.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu!

How to Serve Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu (Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Instant Pot)

Serving your Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu can elevate the dining experience, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this hearty dish.

With Pasta

• Rigatoni or Penne: Toss the ragu with rigatoni or penne pasta for a classic Italian meal that captures the flavors beautifully.
• Gnocchi: Serve the ragu over soft gnocchi for a pillowy texture that pairs well with the savory sauce.
• Pasta Bake: Layer cooked pasta with ragu and cheese in a baking dish, then bake until bubbly for a comforting casserole.

On Polenta

• Creamy Polenta: Pour the ragu over creamy polenta for a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for cold nights.
• Grilled Polenta Cakes: Top grilled polenta cakes with ragu for a crunchy and savory twist.

As a Dip

• Ragù Dip: Serve the ragu as a dip with crusty bread or breadsticks. It’s great for parties or casual gatherings.

With Toppings

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving for added freshness.
• Grated Cheese: Offer grated parmesan or pecorino romano cheese on the side to enhance each bowl.

How to Perfect Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu (Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Instant Pot)

To achieve the best flavor and texture for your Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu, consider these tips that will make your dish stand out.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance flavor significantly, making your ragu taste vibrant and delicious.
• Brown the Meat Well: Ensuring the sausage is well-browned adds depth of flavor to your sauce; don’t rush this step!
• Simmer Gently: A gentle simmer allows flavors to meld perfectly. Avoid boiling vigorously to maintain a rich consistency.
• Add Liquid Gradually: If your sauce thickens too much, add chicken stock or water gradually instead of all at once. This helps control consistency.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the ragu sit off heat before serving allows flavors to develop further and gives you a better texture.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Always taste before serving! You might need an extra pinch of salt or a dash of pepper.

Best Side Dishes for Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu (Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Instant Pot)

Pairing side dishes with your Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu can enhance the meal. Consider these delightful options to complement your main course.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice; serve warm garlic bread to soak up every bit of delicious sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing adds freshness and crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide color and nutrients—try carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a healthy contrast with its earthy flavor and vibrant color.
5. Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with olive oil and lemon dressing can balance the richness of the ragu.
6. Polenta Fries: Crispy polenta fries add fun texture while being an excellent companion to your hearty sauce.
7. Risotto: A creamy risotto can also be served alongside; its texture complements the richness of the ragu beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the Soffritto: This mixture of onions, carrots, and celery builds the foundation of flavor. Take your time to cook it until deeply browned for the best taste.
• Not Deglazing Properly: Failing to scrape up the brown bits after adding vinegar can result in a less flavorful sauce. Make sure you thoroughly deglaze the pot!
• Overcooking or Undercooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can turn it mushy, while undercooking leaves it hard. Always follow package instructions for perfect al dente pasta.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Every ingredient varies in flavor; don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning throughout cooking. A pinch of salt can elevate your ragu!
• Rushing the Simmering Process: Slow cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t rush this step; let it simmer gently for at least 90 minutes for maximum flavor development.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow ragu to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu (Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Instant Pot)

• Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu (Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Instant Pot)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ragu in an oven-safe dish and cover; heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot. Stir between intervals.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu?

Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu is a rich and hearty sauce made from ground sausage, vegetables, and tomatoes. Cooked slowly for maximum flavor, it’s perfect over pasta.

How do I customize my Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu?

You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Adjust seasonings with more herbs or spices according to your preference.

Can I make Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu ahead of time?

Yes! It’s ideal for meal prep as flavors deepen when stored overnight. Reheat before serving for best results.

What types of pasta go well with this ragu?

Rigatoni is a popular choice as its shape holds onto the sauce well. Other options include pappardelle or even gnocchi.

Is there a vegetarian option for this ragu?

Absolutely! Substitute ground meat with plant-based sausage or lentils for a delicious vegetarian version that still packs flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu is not just a comforting meal; it’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to customize with your favorite herbs or veggies. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish will surely impress. Try it today!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Alexia
• Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
• Yield: Approximately six servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Experience the heartwarming flavors of Slowly Simmered Italian Sausage Ragu, a delightful dish that brings together the richness of ground beef sausage with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. This comforting ragu is perfect for cozy nights in or special gatherings, effortlessly enhancing any pasta dish you choose. Whether prepared on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or using an Instant Pot, this recipe guarantees a deep, robust flavor profile that will impress your family and friends.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ pounds ground beef sausage
• 3 large carrots, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 8 cloves garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6-ounce can tomato paste
• 1 cup apple cider vinegar
• 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• Fresh rosemary and thyme
• 2 cups chicken stock

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Add diced carrots, celery, and onion; season with salt. Cook until golden brown (15–20 minutes).
2. Push vegetables aside; add ground beef sausage to the center. Brown for 5–6 minutes, breaking into pieces.
3. Stir in garlic and tomato paste; cook until fragrant (2–3 minutes). Deglaze with apple cider vinegar.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, herbs, and chicken stock; stir well.
5. Bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to low. Partially cover and simmer for about 90 minutes.
6. Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve some starchy water before draining.
7. Mix cooked pasta with ragu sauce; adjust consistency if needed using reserved water.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 70mg