Slow Cooker torso and Sausage
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian Sausage (sweet or hot, casings removed)
- 1 large Onion, chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed Tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can Tomato Sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can Cannellini Beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- 1 lb Pasta (rotini, penne, or shells work well)
- Grated Parmesan Cheese, for serving
Step-by-Step
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Transfer the browned sausage to the slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
5. Add the cannellini beans and chicken broth.
6. Stir in the dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
9. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to package directions.
10. Drain the pasta and add it to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
11. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through.
12. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Variations and Substitutions
There are many ways to adapt this recipe to your taste. This is a flexible and forgiving dish. Feel free to experiment.
### Sausage Options
Consider different types of sausage. Sweet Italian sausage offers a milder flavor. Hot Italian sausage adds a spicy kick. You can even use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Italian sausage is traditional, but other sausages work too. Chorizo will bring smoky heat. Andouille brings a Cajun spice. Even breakfast sausage can be surprisingly good.
### Vegetable Additions
Add more vegetables for extra nutrients. Bell peppers provide sweetness and color. Spinach adds vitamins and minerals. Zucchini bulks up the dish.
Consider adding carrots and celery. These are classics in Italian cooking. They add depth of flavor.
### Bean Variations
Cannellini beans are commonly used, but other beans work well. Kidney beans add a heartier texture. Great Northern beans are another good choice. Navy beans offer a creamy consistency.
Lentils are a fantastic option too. They break down slightly during cooking. This creates a thicker sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker torso and sausage is a complete meal on its own. However, you can pair it with sides. These complement the flavors and textures.
### Bread and Salad
Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce. A simple side salad adds freshness. A balsamic vinaigrette is a great dressing choice.
Garlic bread is always a winner. It complements the Italian flavors. A Caesar salad is another classic pairing.
### Cheese and Herbs
Grated Parmesan cheese is the standard topping. Other cheeses work well too. Shredded mozzarella adds a gooey texture. A dollop of ricotta adds creaminess.
Fresh herbs elevate the dish. Chopped parsley adds a bright flavor. Fresh basil provides an aromatic touch. A sprinkle of oregano adds a savory note.
Tips for Slow Cooker Success
Slow cookers are convenient, but using them properly is crucial. Following these tips will ensure the best results. Avoid common mistakes.
### Browning the Sausage
Browning the sausage is an essential step. This adds depth of flavor. It also prevents the sausage from being greasy.
Don’t skip this step! It makes a big difference. Browning caramelizes the sausage. This unlocks savory flavors.
### Cooking Time
Cooking times vary depending on your slow cooker. Check the internal temperature of the sausage. It should reach 160°F (71°C).
Adjust the cooking time as needed. Overcooking can result in mushy pasta. Undercooking can leave the sausage raw.
### Adding the Pasta
Adding the pasta too early results in mushy pasta. Cook the pasta separately. Add it to the slow cooker at the end.
This ensures the pasta stays al dente. Stir it in gently. Coat it with the sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
This slow cooker recipe is perfect for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time. Store leftovers properly.
### Preparing in Advance
Prepare the ingredients the night before. Chop the vegetables. Brown the sausage. Store everything in the slow cooker insert in the refrigerator.
In the morning, simply turn on the slow cooker. This saves time and effort.
### Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Freezing leftovers is also an option. Freeze in individual portions for easy meals. Thaw completely before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content helps maintain a balanced diet. This information is an estimate. Actual values may vary.
### Calorie Count
A serving of slow cooker torso and sausage contains approximately 400-500 calories. This depends on the ingredients used. Adjust portion sizes to manage calorie intake.
### Macronutrient Breakdown
The dish is a good source of protein. It provides carbohydrates from the pasta and vegetables. Fat content depends on the type of sausage used.
Consider using lean sausage. This reduces the fat content. Add more vegetables to increase fiber intake.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about slow cooker torso and sausage. These address common concerns. They offer helpful solutions.
### Can I use frozen sausage?
Yes, you can use frozen sausage. Thaw it completely before browning. This ensures even cooking.
### Can I use different types of tomatoes?
Yes, you can use different types of tomatoes. Tomato puree works well. Whole tomatoes, crushed by hand, are another option.
### Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, you can add wine to the sauce. Add a half cup of red wine after browning the sausage. This enhances the flavor. Allow the wine to simmer for a few minutes before adding the other ingredients.
### Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can make this vegetarian. Omit the sausage. Add more vegetables. Use vegetable broth. Consider adding plant-based sausage alternatives.
### How do I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, there are several ways to thicken it. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Alternatively, remove some of the sauce. Simmer it on the stovetop until it reduces.
