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Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Egg Noodles

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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:

  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
  1. 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.
See also  Wholesome Broccoli and Cauliflower Bake

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!

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