Ingredients
- Sliced Italian sausage links, each 3.5 ounces
- Tomato sauce from two 15-ounce cans
- Coarsely chopped large tomato
- ½ cup of red wine for a touch of sophistication
- Minced head of garlic for flavor
- ⅓ cup of onion, finely minced
- Grated Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup for richness
- Balsamic vinegar, 2 tablespoons to enhance the taste
- Chopped fresh basil for a burst of freshness, 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons for a smooth finish
- Fresh thyme leaves, 1 tablespoon for a delicate flavor
- Oregano, 1 tablespoon for a hint of earthiness
- Ground black pepper, 1 tablespoon for a kick of spice
- Red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon for a touch of heat
- Salt, 1 teaspoon to balance the flavors
- Brown sugar, 1 teaspoon for a subtle sweetness
Step 1
Begin by heating a stockpot over medium-high heat. As the pot warms up, cook the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it turns a beautiful golden brown, which should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Remember to drain off any excess grease before moving on.
Step 2
Next, it's time to create a flavorful concoction for your dish. In a blender, combine tomato sauce, fresh tomatoes, a splash of red wine, aromatic garlic and onion, rich Parmesan cheese, tangy balsamic vinegar, fragrant basil, high-quality olive oil, a hint of thyme and oregano, a kick of black pepper and red pepper flakes, a pinch of salt, and a touch of brown sugar. Blend these ingredients until they reach your desired texture and consistency.
Step 3
Once your blend is ready, pour it over the cooked sausage in the pot. Watch as the vibrant colors and enticing aromas come together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir occasionally as the flavors meld and deepen, allowing the wine to cook off completely. This process usually takes a minimum of 30 minutes, but feel free to let it simmer longer for even more intensified flavors.
Step 4
Enjoy the slow-cooked goodness that results from this methodical and flavorful process.
Extra Tips & Suggestions
- 1. Organize your pantry like a skilled chef, keeping canned tomatoes, herbs, and spices within easy reach.
- 2. Utilize mason jars for storing extra marinara sauce, effortlessly preserving its fresh flavors.






