Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italy with Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Noodles, a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
This recipe combines the robust taste of Italian sausage with a medley of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and tender egg noodles, all slow-cooked to perfection for a rich and satisfying meal.
With minimal prep and the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality dish without the hassle.
Topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil, it’s a feast that brings everyone to the table.
Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
1 large onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1/2 cup dry red wine
1 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried basil
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
8 oz wide egg noodles
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil, for garnish
Preparation
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.
Transfer the cooked sausage to your slow cooker, then add the sliced onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, red wine, chicken broth, and tomato paste.
Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper.
Stir everything to combine, then cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
About 20-30 minutes before serving, cook the egg noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and stir them into the slow cooker.
Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Garnish with fresh basil just before serving.
Variations & Tips
For a lighter version, try using turkey sausage instead of pork.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based meat alternative or more vegetables such as zucchini and mushrooms.
Additionally, experimenting with different types of pasta like pappardelle or even gluten-free noodles can tailor the dish to your dietary needs.
Feel free to add a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
For a healthier twist on Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Noodles, try using turkey or chicken sausage instead of the traditional pork sausage.
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives or add hearty vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or eggplant for added texture and flavor.
Experiment with different types of pasta, such as pappardelle or gluten-free noodles, to suit your preferences.
For a deeper flavor, opt for a full-bodied red wine in the sauce or add a splash of balsamic vinegar.
Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving, and for a final touch, sprinkle extra Parmesan or drizzle olive oil for added richness.
To store Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Noodles, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
When reheating, warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
For the best texture, store the noodles separately from the sauce if you plan to keep leftovers for more than a day.
A serving of Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Noodles offers a satisfying balance of nutrients, making it both hearty and flavorful.
Packed with protein from the Italian sausage and essential vitamins from the bell pepper, onion, and tomatoes, this dish provides approximately 400-450 calories per serving, depending on portion size.
The egg noodles contribute a good source of carbohydrates for energy, while the Parmesan cheese adds calcium and a rich, savory finish.
To make it lighter, you can opt for turkey sausage or whole-grain noodles, reducing the fat and calorie content while keeping the dish delicious and nourishing.