Best Easy Gemelli al Sugo di Salsiccia Recipe

Twisted pasta strands in a rich Italian sausage ragù that coats every curve. This high protein mediterranean dish is a quick, flavorful family dinner that's ready in 30 minutes.

Cook 30 min Difficulty NORMAL 540 kcal
#mediterranean #high protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Gemelli pasta 12 oz
  • Italian sausage (mild or hot, removed from casing) 12 oz
  • Yellow onion 1 pieces
  • Garlic 3 cloves
  • Crushed tomatoes 1.5 cups
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Olive oil 2 tbsp
  • Fresh basil 0.5 cups
  • Salt 1 tsp
  • Black pepper 0.5 tsp
  • Crushed red pepper flakes 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 62 g 46%
Protein 24 g 18%
Fat 22 g 36%
Serving size 325g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, then add diced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent.

  2. 2

    Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula; cook on medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes, stirring to prevent burning, until browned.

  3. 3

    Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook for 1 minute, then immediately add crushed tomatoes and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

  4. 4

    Simmer the ragù uncovered for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the sausage flavors infuse into the sauce; season with salt and black pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.

  5. 5

    While the sauce simmers, cook the gemelli pasta in boiling salted water until just al dente (about 7–8 minutes); reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.

  6. 6

    Add drained gemelli pasta to the sauce, toss over medium heat for 2 minutes, adding reserved pasta water as needed for silky coating; finish with torn basil leaves and serve immediately.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The Italian sausage is the defining ingredient of Gemelli al Sugo di Salsiccia, providing a robust, savory depth that distinguishes the ragù. Coupled with gemelli pasta, its rich flavor and protein content create the core identity and texture of this dish.
Q. Which step is most important for flavor development?
Browning the Italian sausage in step 2 over medium-high heat is crucial for unlocking its full flavor and creating the signature ragù base. Properly browning ensures caramelization and infuses the sauce with meaty, aromatic notes.
Q. How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking or becoming mushy?
Cook the gemelli pasta just until al dente (about 7–8 minutes) and reserve some pasta water before draining. By tossing the pasta in the sauce over medium heat for only 2 minutes, you avoid overcooking and achieve a perfect, firm texture that holds the ragù beautifully.
Q. What is the nutritional breakdown per serving?
Each serving provides about 540 kcal with 62g carbohydrates (46%), 24g protein (18%), and 22g fat (36%). The dish is high in protein and moderate in fat, making it suitable for Mediterranean and high protein diets.
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