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Easy Slow Cooker Zucchini Marinara with Italian Sausage

slow cooker zucchini marinara - featured image
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A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe combining tender zucchini and flavorful Italian sausage in a rich marinara sauce, perfect for cozy dinners with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (spicy or sweet)
  • 3 medium fresh zucchini (about 2 cups sliced), cut into 1/4 inch half-moons
  • 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • A handful fresh basil, chopped
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash and slice the zucchini into 1/4 inch thick half-moons. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Remove casings from the Italian sausage and crumble it.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the crumbled sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pan with the sausage and cook until softened and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Transfer the sausage, onion, and garlic mixture to the slow cooker. Add sliced zucchini, canned crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried Italian herbs, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or on high for 2 to 3 hours if short on time.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, stir in fresh chopped basil. Adjust seasoning if needed. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
  7. Serve hot over cooked pasta, polenta, or roasted vegetables. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

Browning the sausage and sautéing onions before slow cooking adds essential flavor. Adjust salt gradually during cooking. Use firm zucchini for best texture. The dish tastes better the next day. Can be adapted for Instant Pot using sauté and slow cook modes. Freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, zucchini marinara, Italian sausage, easy dinner, comfort food, healthy, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://lirafood.com/easy-slow-cooker-zucchini-marinara-with-italian-sausage-recipe-for-perfect-dinner/