The Best Easy Sausage Cacciatore Recipe You’ll Ever Make

My kitchen always buzzes with excitement when I prepare this hearty sausage cacciatore that combines rustic Italian flavors with simple cooking techniques.

Robust Italian sausages mingle perfectly with vibrant bell peppers and aromatic herbs in this classic one-pan meal.

Weeknight dinners demand delicious solutions that don’t consume hours of preparation time.

Packed with rich tomato sauce and tender meat, this dish transports you straight to a cozy trattoria in tuscany.

Experienced home cooks and kitchen novices alike can master this straightforward recipe without stress.

Comfort and convenience merge deliciously in every single bite, promising a meal that will become a household favorite.

Grab your skillet and let the culinary adventure begin!

Creative Spins on Sausage Cacciatore

• Vegetarian Cacciatore: Replace sausages with plant-based sausage or firm tofu cubes. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a complete meat-free version.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate intake. Swap traditional pasta with spiralized vegetables for a lighter meal.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients like tomato paste and broth are certified gluten-free. Use gluten-free sausages and serve with rice or gluten-free pasta alternatives.
• Spicy Herb Variation: Add extra red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for increased heat. Incorporate fresh rosemary or thyme to enhance the herb profile and create a more complex flavor dimension.

FAQs

• What exactly is cacciatore style cooking?

Cacciatore means “hunter-style” in Italian, traditionally featuring meat cooked with tomatoes, onions, herbs, and sometimes bell peppers in a rustic, hearty sauce.

• Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! Italian sausage works best, but you can substitute with chicken sausage or mild bratwurst for variety while maintaining similar flavor profiles.

• Is this dish considered healthy?

While delicious, it’s moderate in calories. The recipe includes protein from sausage and vegetables, making it a balanced meal with nutritional value from tomatoes and bell peppers.

• How spicy is this sausage cacciatore?

The recipe has mild heat from red pepper flakes, which can be adjusted. You can reduce or eliminate them for a less spicy version, or add more for extra kick.

Effortless Sausage Cacciatore Kitchen Staple

• This sausage cacciatore brings restaurant-quality flavor with minimal kitchen effort.
• Perfect for customizing with different protein options like chicken or plant-based sausages, making it versatile for various dietary preferences.
• Minimal cleanup required since everything cooks in a single pan, saving precious time and reducing dishwashing stress.
• Packed with hearty ingredients that appeal to both kids and adults, creating a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy without complicated techniques.

Sausage Cacciatore Pantry Must-Haves

• Sausages: Flavorful protein that serves as the main component of the dish and provides a rich, hearty base.

• Onion, Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables that add depth, sweetness, and texture to the sauce.
• Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a robust and pungent flavor to the entire dish.

• Diced Tomatoes: Juicy base that creates a classic Italian-style sauce with bright, tangy flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Liquid that helps create a smooth, rich sauce and enhances overall depth of flavor.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato product that thickens the sauce and adds intense tomato flavor.
• Oregano, Basil: Classic Italian herbs that bring authentic Mediterranean taste and aroma.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Spicy element that adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance the overall flavor profile.

• Fresh Parsley: Bright green herb that adds a fresh, clean finish to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Cooking fat that helps brown the sausages and sauté the vegetables with a classic Mediterranean taste.

How to Make Easy Sausage Cacciatore

Step 1: Sizzle the Sausages

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Carefully place sausages into the hot pan and cook until they develop a beautiful golden-brown color on all sides.

This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Once perfectly browned, transfer the sausages to a separate plate and set aside.

Step 2: Tenderize the Vegetables

In the same skillet with those delicious sausage drippings, add sliced onions and bell peppers.

Gently saute the vegetables until they become soft and slightly translucent.

Toss in minced garlic and continue cooking for another minute to release its aromatic flavors.

Step 3: Create the Robust Sauce

• Diced tomatoes
• Chicken broth
• Tomato paste
• Dried oregano
• Fresh basil
• Red pepper flakes

Season with salt and pepper to enhance the taste.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and carefully return the browned sausages back into the skillet.

Step 4: Slow Cook the Dish

Lower the heat and cover the skillet.

Allow the sausages to slowly simmer in the rich sauce for 25-30 minutes.

The sausages should become completely tender and cooked through.

Take a moment to taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed.

Step 5: Plate and Enjoy

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness.

Serve this mouthwatering cacciatore over pasta, creamy polenta, or alongside crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the incredible sauce.

Pro Tips for Rich Sausage Cacciatore Flavor

• Choose fresh Italian sausages with robust flavors like mild or hot varieties for maximum taste and authentic texture.
• Use medium heat when searing sausages to develop a beautiful golden-brown crust without burning or drying out the meat.
• Add chicken broth gradually to achieve desired sauce thickness, allowing it to reduce and intensify flavors during simmering.
• Crush dried oregano and basil between your fingers before adding to release more aromatic oils and boost overall seasoning profile.
• Stir occasionally during simmering to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sauce from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

Storing and Reheating Sausage Cacciatore

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Transfer cooled sausage cacciatore to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air, seal completely, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Place portion in microwave-safe dish, cover with microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Pour leftovers into skillet, add splash of chicken broth to prevent drying. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.

Pairing Ideas for Sausage Cacciatore

• Pair Hearty Red Wines: Choose full-bodied Italian red wines like Chianti or Sangiovese to complement the rich, savory sausage and tomato-based sauce. Their robust flavors match perfectly with the dish's bold taste profile.
• Serve with Rustic Bread: Select a crusty Italian ciabatta or focaccia to soak up the delicious sauce. The bread's texture and ability to absorb flavors will enhance the overall dining experience.
• Create a Fresh Side Salad: Prepare a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the heavy sausage dish. The peppery greens and tangy dressing will cut through the richness and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Match with Creamy Polenta: Spread smooth, buttery polenta as a base for the sausage cacciatore. The soft, mild corn texture creates a perfect canvas for the spicy, tomato-packed sauce, offering a comforting and satisfying meal.

Easy Sausage Cacciatore Recipe

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4.9 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory sausage cacciatore brings rustic Italian countryside charm to dinner tables with minimal effort. Home cooks can quickly craft this hearty one-pan meal that delivers rich flavors and satisfying comfort in less than an hour.

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Ingredients

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Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced

Herbs and Seasonings:

• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Liquids and Cooking Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

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Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Carefully place whole sausages into the pan, rotating to achieve an even golden-brown exterior, approximately 5-6 minutes. Transfer browned sausages to a separate plate.
2. Using the same skillet, introduce sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté the vegetables until they become translucent and slightly softened, around 4-5 minutes. Incorporate minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional 60 seconds, allowing aromatic flavors to develop.
3. Pour diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste into the vegetable mixture. Sprinkle oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes for enhanced flavor complexity. Season with salt and pepper, then gently stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Return sausages to the skillet, nestling them into the vibrant sauce. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and allow the mixture to simmer gently for 25-30 minutes. Ensure sausages are thoroughly cooked and sauce has slightly thickened.
5. Once cooking is complete, taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve alongside pasta, creamy polenta, or crusty artisan bread to absorb the rich, savory sauce.

Notes

• Use high-quality Italian sausages for maximum flavor depth and authentic taste.
• Consider removing sausage casings before browning to enhance texture and allow better sauce absorption.
• Slice vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Customize spice levels by adjusting red pepper flakes for mild or more intense heat preferences.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 345
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 25 g
• Saturated Fat: 8 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg