Italian sausage stands out from other types of sausage due to its bold, rich flavor profile. While there are many varieties available, most are characterized by the use of herbs and garlic, which is also reflected in popular Italian sausage recipes. One of the key benefits of using flavored Italian spicy sausage is that it requires minimal additional seasoning to deliver impressive results – a pinch of salt and pepper can go a long way in bringing out its natural flavor.
Instant Pot Pasta with Sausage
In just a few short steps, you can whip up a mouthwatering Instant Pot sausage pasta dish that’s as flavorful as it is quick to prepare. Despite its rich taste profile, this creamy Italian sausage pasta recipe requires only a handful of ingredients! To start, simply brown your sausage and onions in a pan with a sprinkle of garlic powder and Italian seasoning until the onions are soft and translucent. Next, add in your spaghetti sauce, dry noodles, and broth – allowing the flavors to meld together before introducing your leafy spinach. Once everything is cooked through, serve this comforting meal alongside some crusty garlic toast for a satisfying treat that won’t break the bank. For more affordable and nutritious recipe ideas, be sure to check out our collection!
Crock Pot Tortellini Soup
When it comes to busy weeknights, a comforting bowl of tortellini soup can be a lifesaver. The combination of tender pasta pockets filled with savory goodness and coated in a rich, creamy tomato sauce is sure to hit the spot. But what really sets this dish apart is the ease with which it can be prepared. Simply add some cooked sausage, garlic, and onions to your pot along with a flavorful base made up of stock, marinara, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Let everything simmer together until the flavors have melded together beautifully. Then, in the last half hour of cooking, add in your tortellini and a generous helping of cream cheese. Stir well to ensure everything is fully incorporated, then let it cook until the pasta is warmed through. Finally, garnish with some parmesan cheese for added depth of flavor. This easy dinner is sure to become a staple in your household.
Italian Sausage and Fennel One Pan Pasta Dish
Savoring the perfect blend of flavors, this comforting sausage dish is an effortless delight. The pungent charm of fennel harmonizes beautifully with rich pasta, creating a truly satisfying meal.Begin by cooking your sausage and setting it aside. Then, in the same skillet, sauté a medley of onion, fennel, and kale until they’re tender. Next, add your stock and noodles to the pan, allowing them to simmer until the pasta is cooked to perfection.The finishing touch comes when you reintroduce the sausage into the pan, stirring in an abundance of parmesan cheese to create a luxurious, creamy sauce that will leave you craving more. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Cheesy Sausage Gnocchi
To elevate this delectable chicken sausage dish into a satisfying meal, consider pairing it with cooked gnocchi. To take your gnocchi game to the next level, try browning them in a mixture of butter and olive oil once they’re cooked. Begin by cooking your sausage and green pepper until they’re both tender. Next, combine the cooked ingredients with diced tomatoes, milk, and cheddar cheese to create a rich and creamy sauce. Finally, add some flavor-enhancing elements like garlic salt, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder to bring everything together.
One Pan Sausage and Peaches with Potatoes
While pairing sausage with peaches may seem unconventional, the sweetness of the fruit surprisingly harmonizes with the savory Italian sausage. This recipe is a breeze to prepare and requires minimal effort. Simply arrange your ingredients in a single layer on a baking pan, then coat them in a sweet jam and olive glaze before baking. Sausage, baby potatoes, peaches, and bell peppers form an ideal combination. To add depth and complexity, incorporate fresh sage leaves and minced garlic into the mix. Finish the dish by drizzling it with lemon juice once cooked. This easy and fun dinner idea is perfect for a summer evening with the whole family.
Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
A scrumptious appetizer can be achieved by filling mushrooms with sausage. Portobello and white mushrooms, in their baby form, are ideal for this dish due to their meaty texture and mild flavor. The foundation of the filling is created by cooking sausage, mushroom stems, and garlic until they’re well combined. To add depth and complexity, fresh sage and Marsala wine can be incorporated into the mixture. Next, cream cheese and parmesan are stirred in until melted and smooth. A crunchy topping provides a satisfying textural contrast to the soft filling. Panko breadcrumbs and grated parmesan cheese make for an excellent combination when sprinkled on top before baking.
Italian Sausage Kale Soup
As winter approaches, there’s no better remedy than a warm, comforting bowl of Italian-inspired soup. The star ingredients here are juicy Italian sausage, creamy cannellini beans, and a medley of chunky vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. But the real magic happens when you combine these flavors with the rich, savory goodness of canned tomatoes. A splash of chicken bone broth (or plain chicken broth if you prefer) brings everything together, while a sprinkle of thyme, rosemary, and a squeeze of lemon add bright, fresh notes that elevate the dish to new heights.
Stuffed Butternut Squash with Apple and Sausage
The sweet and savory flavors of stuffed butternut squash are a true culinary delight. The combination of sausage, earthy mushrooms, and sweet apples creates an irresistible taste experience. As your butternut squash bakes to perfection, prepare the delicious filling by browning the sausage and then adding sautéed mushrooms. A trifecta of garlic, red onion, sage, and cinnamon adds depth and complexity, while a sprinkle of crunchy walnuts provides textural contrast. Once the filling is ready, combine it with the tender flesh of the squash, and then return it to its natural ‘shell.’ Finish the dish off by topping it with a golden glaze made from brown sugar, butter, and parmesan cheese.
Instant Pot Lasagna Soup
Imagine a warm, comforting bowl of goodness that combines the best of lasagna with the comfort of soup. This recipe brings together browned sausage, onions, and garlic, along with chicken broth, marinara sauce, lasagna noodles, and a blend of dried herbs – basil, oregano, and thyme creating the perfect harmony of flavors. Once cooking is complete, stir in heavy cream for added richness. Serve this delicious soup hot, topped with a cheesy mixture made from a blend of ricotta, parmesan, mozzarella, and parsley for an extra layer of indulgence. If you’re looking for more dinner inspiration, check out our collection of ideas to elevate your evening meal.
Italian Stuffed Jalapenos
The savory filling of this recipe – a harmonious blend of cheesy goodness, meaty texture, and spicy kick – makes it an excellent choice for an appetizer. To craft this flavorful combination, cook sausage, bell pepper, onion, and garlic until they’re tender. Then, combine the cooked ingredients with cream cheese and parmesan, allowing their flavors to meld together seamlessly. Finally, spoon the filling into halved jalapenos and top with mozzarella. Place them in the oven until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly, at which point you’ll be ready to serve.
Baked Italian Sausage and Potatoes
In this delectable sheet pan meal, Italian sausage takes center stage alongside perfectly roasted potatoes and crisp green beans. The real magic happens when you combine rosemary, garlic powder, and kosher salt with olive oil to create a simple yet potent seasoning blend. Simply toss your potatoes in the mixture and cook them briefly before adding the sausages and beans.As the dish bakes until the sausages are cooked through and the potatoes are tender, the aroma of roasting vegetables wafts from the oven, teasing your taste buds. To finish, serve with a zesty Dijon mustard sauce that adds a tangy contrast to the hearty, comforting meal.
Sausage and Kale Farro
Indulge in this nutritious recipe that combines the savory flavors of sausage with the wholesome goodness of farro and kale. The harmonious blend of these ingredients makes for a satisfying meal. To start, cook your sausage until it’s nicely browned. Then, add farro, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, allowing them to simmer together in perfect harmony. Next, introduce white beans and kale into the mixture, stirring briefly to combine. Finally, finish with a sprinkle of fresh parmesan for an added burst of flavor before serving.
Classic Meatloaf with Sausage
Elevate the humble meatloaf by incorporating Italian sausage for an explosion of flavors. To add moisture and depth, incorporate fresh herbs and finely chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion. A trio of aromatics – garlic, parsley, and Italian seasoning – will further enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
A key to success lies in briefly cooking the mixture of vegetables and seasonings to coax out their natural flavors. The meatloaf itself will boast a robust flavor profile courtesy of Dijon mustard, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco. To take it to the next level, craft a sweet and tangy glaze using brown sugar, mustard, and ketchup.
Pasta with Mustard Greens and Sausage Orecchiette
Savory fusion of sweet and bitter flavors elevates this meal to new heights. The combination of tender pasta, caramelized onion, sweet Italian sausage, and pungent mustard greens creates a delightful culinary experience.
Begin by cooking the sausage and setting it aside for later. Use the same pan to sauté minced garlic, mustard greens, and caramelized onion in a rich broth that’s full of flavor.
Combine cooked pasta with the reserved cooking water, the cooked sausage, and the flavorful vegetable mixture. Stir well to create a luscious, creamy sauce that will leave you wanting more.
Italian Sausage Soup
This nourishing white bean and sausage soup checks all the boxes – it’s not only healthy and hearty but also incredibly flavorful. The best part? It’s a breeze to prepare and perfect for meal prep. By incorporating spinach, carrots, and onions, you’ll boost the veggie quotient while the ground sausage adds a satisfying meaty depth to the rich tomato base. To add some satisfying heft, toss in some noodles and cannellini beans and let them cook until the pasta is tender. If you’re looking for more mouth-watering meat dinner recipes, keep exploring!
Ricotta Sausage Ziti
Indulge in a delightful combination of Italian sausage, cheese, pasta, and sauce, cleverly concealed with the addition of squash, zucchini, and onion. This ingenious approach effortlessly incorporates vegetables into the dish.To begin, cook your pasta according to the package instructions and set it aside for later use. Next, heat up a skillet and sauté the Italian sausage along with onions, zucchini, and squash until they’re nicely browned.Once you have your ingredients prepared, it’s time to assemble the dish. Start by layering cooked noodles, pasta sauce, and the sausage mixture in a baking dish. Don’t forget to add some ricotta, mozzarella, and fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor.Finally, pop that dish into the oven until the mozzarella on top is golden brown and bubbly. The result will be a mouthwatering casserole that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
30-Minute Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
Create a hearty and nutritious skillet meal by combining a few basic ingredients. The combination of cabbage, red bell pepper, and carrots provides a boost of vitamins and minerals. To start, cook the Italian sausage until browned and set it aside. Next, sauté the onion and garlic in the same pan to infuse the dish with their pungent flavors. Then, add the chopped vegetables – including cabbage, carrots, and red bell pepper – and cook until they’re tender. Finally, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and serve the meal hot.
Instant Pot Creamy Italian Sausage and Shells
A delectable creamy sausage pasta dish can be whipped up quickly using your Instant Pot. While the process may involve more steps than just throwing everything in, the payoff is well worth the extra effort. To start, you’ll need to sauté a combination of mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and sausage to bring out their flavors. Next, add white wine, broth, baby tomatoes, Italian herbs, and parsley to the mix, stirring until everything is well combined. The next step involves adding your pasta and spinach, followed by a few minutes of cooking. Just before serving, stir in cream, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and parmesan. Allow the dish to sit for a few moments to allow the flavors to thicken and meld together, then serve and enjoy.
Breakfast Casserole
Indulge in a hearty breakfast casserole that combines the best of morning favorites. Italian sausage, scrambled eggs, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese come together in perfect harmony. To start, cook the sausage in a skillet until browned, then add it to a large baking dish filled with hash browns. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and shredded cheese before pouring the mixture over the top of the casserole. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and your preferred spices for an extra boost of flavor. Finally, pop the dish into the oven until everything is cooked through and the center is firm. For a finishing touch, garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Baked Sausage and Peppers
On busy weeknights, a meal that requires minimal prep and ingredients can be a lifesaver. Enter baked sausage and peppers, a quick and easy solution that’s sure to please. To start, simply slice up some sweet bell peppers and onions and place them in a baking pan. Then, add your Italian sausage to the mix, making sure it’s evenly distributed among the veggies.Next, combine red wine vinegar, olive oil, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes for a flavorful glaze. Drizzle this mixture over the sausage and peppers, then toss everything together gently. Finally, pop the dish into the oven until everything is cooked to your liking and golden brown.If you find yourself with extra bell peppers on hand, don’t worry – they can be used in a variety of other delicious recipes. Check out some of our favorite green pepper dishes for inspiration.
Roasted Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
This delectable dish shines the spotlight on Italian sausage, roasted broccoli, and earthy mushrooms. To elevate the flavors of these ingredients, incorporate garlic-infused olive oil into your preparation process. Begin by baking your mushrooms and sausages for a brief period before introducing the broccoli to the mix. As your sausage and veggies are cooking, cook your noodles separately. Once everything is cooked, combine it all together and add some pasta water to create a harmonious blend of flavors. To put the finishing touches on this dish, squeeze in some lemon juice for an added burst of citrus freshness. For more affordable recipe ideas perfect for families, explore our collection.
Instant Pot Sausage Lentil Soup
The instant Pot soup’s filling and hearty nature is largely due to the wholesome lentils used. To create a nutritious meal, add an abundance of vegetables alongside the sausage for a well-rounded dish. Begin by cooking the sausage within the pot, followed by the addition of aromatic ingredients such as garlic, onion, celery, carrots, and zucchini. Canned tomatoes and chicken broth serve as the liquid base for the soup. Next, introduce dried brown lentils, along with Italian seasoning and oregano to further enhance the flavors. Once cooked, portion out the soup into bowls and top each serving with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
Creamy Sausage Mushroom Pasta
A rich Alfredo sauce wraps around earthy mushrooms and savory sausage, perfectly complemented by large rigatoni noodles. The combination of flavors is a true delight. To start, cook your sausage in a large skillet before setting it aside to allow the onion, mushrooms, and garlic to soak up its flavorful goodness. This step not only enhances the overall flavor profile but also ensures that every bite is infused with the essence of the sausage. Next, combine heavy cream, parmesan, and fresh basil to create your sauce, then add a surprising yet harmonious element – dried cherries. The sweetness they bring balances out the savory notes, resulting in a truly unique and captivating pasta dish.
Stracchino and Sausage Crostini
Transform any gathering into an unforgettable experience with these delectable crunchy crostini. Boasting only two essential ingredients, this delightful topping is perfect for elevating snacks or serving as a light lunch. The combination of flavorful Italian sausage and tangy stracchino cheese will leave your guests in awe.
To create this culinary masterpiece, begin by carefully removing the sausage from its casing and mashing it with the soft cheese. Once you’ve achieved the desired consistency, spread the mixture evenly onto thick slices of crusty bread. Finally, bake until the sausage is fully cooked and the cheese has melted to a golden, velvety perfection.
Italian-Style Shrimp and Grits
Indulge in a delectable Italian twist on traditional shrimp and grits with this effortless recipe. To start, cook your sausage in a large skillet and set it aside for later use. Then, sauté onions, garlic, and red pepper flakes to infuse the tomato-based shrimp sauce with rich flavors. Use the same skillet to absorb all the savory goodness from the sausage. Next, create creamy grits by combining polenta, milk, and flavorful broth. Finally, serve your succulent tomato-shrimp mixture atop a bed of warm grits for a satisfying and filling meal.
Sausage Pasta Skillet Dinner
This mouth-watering dish combines succulent sausage, tangy sauce, and satisfying noodles in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup while delivering a flavorful meal that’s sure to please. The key is balancing cooking times for different ingredients, but the payoff is well worth the effort.
Begin by sautéing bell peppers, onions, and garlic until tender, then set them aside. Next, deglaze the pan with white wine before incorporating this aromatic mixture into the veggies.
Now it’s time to bring everything together: cook sausage, tomato sauce, stock, and pasta in harmony. Add a pinch of oregano, salt, and pepper for an extra boost of flavor. Once the dish is cooked through, stir in those set-aside vegetables to ensure even distribution. Finish with a sprinkle of basil and parmesan for a pop of color and added depth.
Orzo Soup with Sausage and Spinach
This hearty soup combines the comforting warmth of chicken noodle soup with the vibrant flavors of minestrone. Italian sausage takes center stage, swapping out traditional chicken for a rich, meaty depth. Orzo replaces noodles, adding a satisfying bite to each spoonful.
To bring this flavorful fusion to life, start by cooking your sausage in a Dutch oven until nicely browned. Set the cooked sausage aside and reserve its juices for later use. Next, sauté onions, celery, and carrots in those same savory juices, allowing them to soften and meld together. Then, add chicken broth, cannellini beans, and the reserved sausage back into the pot, stirring gently to combine.
To elevate this soup to new heights, introduce a burst of freshness courtesy thyme and rosemary. These fragrant herbs lend an air of sophistication and depth, balancing out the hearty goodness of the rest of the ingredients.
Finally, stir in cooked orzo towards the end of your cooking time, allowing it to absorb all those delicious flavors. Just before serving, add a handful of spinach and watch as its tender leaves wilt into the soup, infusing every spoonful with a vibrant pop of green.
One Pot Italian Sausage Farfalle Pasta
Indulge in a quick and flavorful one-pot pasta dish that’s ready to devour in no time. The key to this recipe lies not only in its simplicity, but also in the bold flavor imparted by the Italian sausage. To start, cook the sausage briefly until it begins to brown, then add sliced mushrooms and continue cooking until they’re tender as well. Next, add water to the pot along with your pasta of choice, stirring until everything is well combined. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked through. In the final stretch, toss in some frozen peas to preserve their bright green color and burst of freshness. To finish, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh basil leaves before serving.
Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
Imagine a harmonious blend of savory sausage, velvety cheese, and al dente pasta, all swirled together in a rich and creamy tomato broth. This comforting dish is sure to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites. To bring this culinary masterpiece to life, start by cooking your sausage in a Dutch oven until it’s nicely browned, then set it aside for later. Next, sauté some aromatic onion and celery in the same pot until they’re soft and fragrant, followed by the pungent addition of garlic. From here, add a flavorful medley of chicken broth, ripe tomatoes, and Italian seasoning to create a sumptuous sauce that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. When it reaches a rolling boil, reintroduce your cooked sausage to the pot, allowing its smoky goodness to meld with the other ingredients. Finally, stir in some pasta until it’s heated through, then add a dollop of heavy cream and a sprinkle of fresh spinach to give the dish a luxurious finish. And there you have it – a mouthwatering dinner idea that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Broccoli
When seeking a flavorful and satisfying meal, this crispy gnocchi dish with roasted lemon broccoli and mild Italian sausage is sure to please. To achieve the perfect level of crispiness, cook your gnocchi and sausage together on a sheet pan, allowing the juices from the sausage to infuse the gnocchi. Meanwhile, prepare your broccoli by tossing it in slices of lemon before adding it to the pan. After baking until the sausage is cooked and everything is golden brown, you’ll have a deliciously harmonious combination that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Italian Sausage Macaroni and Cheese
Elevate the classic mac and cheese by infusing it with the savory goodness of Italian sausage. To start, cook your sausage and spinach in a skillet until the sausage is browned and crispy, then set aside along with your cooked pasta.
Next, prepare your sauce by melting butter into cream and whisking in Fontina and Pecorino cheese. As the mixture thickens, combine it with the cooked sausage and pasta, ensuring everything is well coated.
Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish, topping it with buttery breadcrumbs for an added crunch. Bake until the top is golden brown and the sides are bubbly, resulting in a comforting, cheesy casserole that’s sure to become a family favorite.
