Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Egg Noodles 🍝
This dish combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage, tender egg noodles, and a rich sauce, all brought together with minimal effort thanks to your slow cooker. It’s the perfect hearty meal for a busy weeknight!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, sliced or whole)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 12 oz wide egg noodles
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for browning sausage)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional add-ins: bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini
Instructions:
- Brown the Sausage:
- In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Brown the Italian sausage on all sides for 5-6 minutes until golden but not fully cooked through.
- Transfer sausage to the slow cooker.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Transfer the onion and garlic mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings:
- To the slow cooker, add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook in the Slow Cooker:
- Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours, until the sausage is tender and the sauce has developed rich flavors.
- Cook the Egg Noodles:
- About 20 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
- Combine Noodles and Sauce:
- Once the sausage and sauce are ready, gently stir in the cooked egg noodles.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth or water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Serve the Italian sausage and egg noodles in bowls.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
- Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
- Yes! You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even spicy sausage depending on your preference. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. Do I have to brown the sausage first?
- Browning the sausage adds extra flavor, but if you’re in a hurry, you can skip this step and add the raw sausage directly to the slow cooker.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
- Absolutely! Just substitute the egg noodles with a gluten-free pasta or noodle option.
4. How can I make the sauce creamier?
- If you prefer a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
- Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
6. How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
Enjoy your flavorful and comforting slow-cooked meal!