Ingredients
1 lb spaghetti
1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan or Romano cheese for serving
Instructions
Cook spaghetti in well-salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside. In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and brown the Italian sausage, breaking it into chunks. Remove excess grease if needed. Add the bell pepper and onion and cook until softened, then stir in the garlic. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, and seasonings. Simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Toss the cooked spaghetti directly into the sauce until well coated. Serve hot with plenty of grated cheese on top.