Ingredients

  • 2 (3.5 ounce) links Italian sausage, sliced
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
  • 1 large tomato, coarsely chopped
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1 head garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup minced onion
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh oregano
  • 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar

Method

  • Heat a stockpot over medium-high heat. Cook and stir sausage in the hot stockpot until browned, 5 to 7 minutes; drain and discard grease.
  • Blend tomato sauce, tomato, red wine, garlic, onion, Parmesan cheese, balsamic vinegar, basil, olive oil, thyme, oregano, black pepper, red pepper flakes, salt, and brown sugar together in a blender until desired consistency is reached. Pour mixture over sausage; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until wine has cooked off, at least 30 minutes.