Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made with Sausage and Apple Cider Stew

The aroma of sausage dancing through a pot of bubbling apple cider stew is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine the sweetness of apples mingling with savory sausage, creating a symphony of flavors that would make even Grandma proud. This Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made with Sausage and Apple Cider Stew isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that warms the soul and brings everyone together at the dinner table.

In our family, Sundays were reserved for special dishes that felt like a warm embrace. As we gathered around the table, the rich flavors of this stew became a staple, leaving us with memories that lingered long after the last bite. Whether it’s a crisp autumn evening or a cozy winter afternoon, this dish is perfect for any occasion that calls for a hearty meal shared among loved ones.

Ingredients for Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made:

2 red apples – Quartered, these apples add a touch of natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish.

7 cups water – This forms the base of our stew, allowing all the flavors to blend beautifully.

6 links hot or sweet Italian sausage – Choose your favorite type to add richness and depth. The combination of spices in Italian sausage elevates the stew.

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – A drizzle of this golden elixir enhances flavors and provides a perfect sautéing medium.

1 large onion – Chopped fine, the onion adds a sweet and savory aromatic quality that forms the backbone of many great dishes.

2 cloves garlic – Minced, because garlic makes everything better, adding layers of flavor.

1 green bell pepper – Chopped, it provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts the tender meats and apples.

2 (14.5-ounce) cans whole tomatoes – These provide the saucy base for our stew, enriching it with juicy flavors.

1 tablespoon dried or fresh basil – This herb adds an earthy sweetness that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

1 tablespoon dried or fresh oregano – A classic Italian herb that brings a fragrant touch to the dish.

1/4 teaspoon black pepper – A sprinkle for warmth and subtle spice.

1/4 cup fresh parsley – Chopped, for a fresh finishing touch and a pop of color to the final presentation.

How to Make Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made:

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Cider
In a large pot over medium heat, add the quartered apples and the 7 cups of water. Let this simmer until the apples are tender and the cider is fragrant, about 1 hour. Once ready, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, discarding the apples. This cider will be the base of your sauce, so set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Brown the Sausages
Next, take a skillet over medium-high heat and add the sausage links. Brown them until they are beautifully caramelized on the outside, turning them occasionally. Drain the excess fat and set them aside. They’ll join the stew in style shortly!

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, stirring often, until they soften and the onion becomes translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. As they sauté, the kitchen will begin to smell like heaven. Add the minced garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Stew Base
Pour in the canned tomatoes with their juices and the apple cider you made earlier. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. Season this beauty with the basil, oregano, and black pepper, allowing the wonderful aromas to mingle.

Step 5: Combine it All
Slice the browned sausages into chunky pieces and add them to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 4 to 6 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors meld into something truly magical.

Step 6: Serve with Love
When you’re ready to eat, serve this delectable stew over cooked pasta of your choice. Twirl those noodles, ladle the rich sausage and apple cider stew atop, and don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley for that final burst of flavor and color.

This Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and family. Gather your loved ones, pour a glass of your favorite wine, and indulge in the comforting warmth this stew brings to your table. Enjoy every hearty bite, reminisce about the cherished memories, and make new ones around the meal you’ve lovingly prepared. It’s not just good food; it’s a taste of home and tradition.

Perfecting Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made Cooking Process

Start by simmering apples and water for a fragrant cider, then while that’s cooking, brown your sausage. As the cider infuses flavor, sauté onions and bell peppers for a robust base.

Add Your Touch to Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made

Feel free to swap the Italian sausage with turkey or veggie sausage for a lighter meal. You can also add in your favorite beans or mushrooms for an earthy twist.

Storing & Reheating Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made

Store your leftover stew in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.

There’s a special joy in hearing friends rave about this dish. I remember one dinner when my pals wanted the exact recipe after just one bite. It reminded me how cooking can weave cherished memories together.

FAQs About Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made

What is Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made?

Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made is a heartwarming concoction that brings together the comforting flavors of Italian sausages, fresh apples, and a blend of herbs. This stew simmers slowly, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully, resulting in a dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also evokes nostalgia. It’s often enjoyed as a family meal on Sundays, serving as a perfect centerpiece for gatherings. This recipe’s clever use of apple cider adds a unique twist, making it an unforgettable comfort food classic that warms the soul.

How do I store leftover Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made?

To store your delicious Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within three days, although some flavor enthusiasts say it gets even better after a night in the fridge. When you’re ready to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and flavorful. This way, you can savor every bit of the amazing tastes long after the dinner table is cleared.

Can I customize Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made?

Absolutely! One of the joys of making Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made is its versatility. You can swap out the traditional Italian sausage for turkey or even vegan sausages to suit your dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite vegetables, beans, or even mushrooms for a unique twist. Whichever variations you decide to incorporate, the fundamental essence of this delicious stew remains intact, making it a dish that you can truly call your own.

What can I serve with Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made?

Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a traditional touch, serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, allowing the stew to soak into the noodles. It also complements crusty bread or a fresh salad, adding a refreshing crunch. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider offering a cheese platter alongside your stew for a delightful mix of flavors. The possibilities are vast, making it an ideal centerpiece for any meal.

Conclusion for Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made

In summary, Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made is a deliciously satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The careful layering of flavors, from savory sausages to the subtle sweetness of apple cider, creates a meal perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners alike. With its versatility and heartfelt appeal, this stew serves not just as food but as a vessel for cherished memories, making it an essential recipe for any home chef’s collection. Don’t hesitate to whip it up and enjoy the love it brings!

Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made with Sausage and Apple Cider Stew

This Sunday Sauce Like Nonna Made is a comforting stew featuring Italian sausage and a hint of apple cider.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 1 hour hr

Cook Time 6 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 2 red apples, quartered
• 7 cups water
• 6 links hot or sweet Italian sausage
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cans (14.5-ounce) whole tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon dried or fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tablespoon dried or fresh oregano, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley

Equipment

• large pot
• skillet
• Stockpot or Dutch Oven

Method

 

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add apples and water. Allow to simmer until apples are tender and cider is fragrant, about 1 hour. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth; discard apples and set aside to cool.
2. To a skillet over medium-high heat, add sausage links and brown. Drain the fat and set the cooked sausages aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and cook, stirring often, until they are soft and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add tomatoes and apple cider, cook until smooth. Add basil, oregano, pepper, and parsley.
5. Slice sausages into large chunks and add to the pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for 4 to 6 hours.
6. Serve over cooked pasta of your choice.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Feel free to customize this recipe by swapping the Italian sausage for turkey or veggie varieties to suit your preferences. Adding beans or mushrooms can provide an earthy twist that enhances the flavor.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!