20 Hearty Italian Sausage Slow Cooker Comfort Recipes
As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting meal to brighten up your day. And what better way to achieve that than with a delicious slow cooker recipe featuring Italian sausage? The rich flavors of this iconic sausage, combined with the tender loving care of a slow cooker, result in hearty dishes that are sure to become new family favorites.
From classic pasta sauces to flavorful stews and soups, we’ve rounded up 20 mouth-watering Italian sausage slow cooker recipes to keep you cozy all winter long. So go ahead, get creative, and let the aromas wafting from your kitchen fill the air with warmth and comfort. In this article, we’ll dive into each of these scrumptious recipes, sharing tips, tricks, and ingredient lists to help you create a culinary masterpiece that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Stay tuned for our first recipe, Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers, which is sure to become an instant hit in your household!
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty slow cooker recipe, featuring sweet Italian sausage and bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in crushed tomatoes and add oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta in the Slow Cooker
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a slow cooker, resulting in a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Stir in the olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and White Bean Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with creamy cannellini beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Transfer the cooked sausage to the slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Italian Sausage and Kale Soup in the Crockpot
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines spicy Italian sausage with the nutritional power of kale, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 cup kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and dried oregano. Pour the mixture over the sausage mixture in the crockpot.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, add the kale leaves to the soup and stir well.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Potato Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. In the slow cooker, combine the browned sausage, sliced potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Easy Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat; transfer to slow cooker.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, rice, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese to slow cooker.
3. Stir in olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Marinara and Mozzarella
A hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or game-day gathering. This slow cooker recipe simmers Italian sausage in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, resulting in tender, cheesy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot)
– 1 jar marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the Italian sausage in a slow cooker.
2. Pour in the marinara sauce, making sure the sausage is covered.
3. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Tuscan-Style Italian Sausage and Bean Slow Cooker Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of flavors, with sweet Italian sausage, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables all slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker; add the beans, tomatoes, broth, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup Recipe
Warm up with a hearty and flavorful slow cooker soup that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the comforting warmth of lentils. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a chilly day or a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Rice Slow Cooker Bake
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. This slow cooker recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, and garlic.
2. Add rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top.
5. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
Savor the flavors of Italy with this comforting slow cooker recipe that combines tender shells, savory sausage, and fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to Low.
2. Cook shells according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned. Remove from heat.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to skillet; cook until softened. Stir in spinach, salt, and pepper.
5. In the slow cooker, combine cooked shells, sausage mixture, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well.
6. Cook on Low for 3-4 hours or High for 1-2 hours.
Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach if desired.
One-Pot Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Orzo
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty, one-pot meal that combines sweet Italian sausage with nutty orzo and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz orzo pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Stir in crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, white wine (if using), and dried oregano.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the orzo pasta. If the mixture looks dry, add a little more chicken broth.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the ease of slow cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cabbage, shredded
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Add the shredded cabbage, chopped carrots, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and dried oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Italian Sausage and Tomato Slow Cooker Stew
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker stew that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the sweetness of tomatoes, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sliced Italian sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir to combine, then cover the slow cooker.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty, slow-cooked sausage dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
• 1 lb Italian sausage links, casings removed
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, bell peppers, garlic, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. If using red wine, add it during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Tomato Basil Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the richness of Italian sausage with the brightness of fresh basil.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
2. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the slow cooker.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, browned Italian sausage, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves.
6. Cook on low for 3-4 hours or high for 1-2 hours.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (low) or 1-2 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Chickpea Curry
A hearty, flavorful curry that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the nuttiness of chickpeas, all simmered to perfection in a slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients except parsley.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Garlic Butter Italian Sausage and Potatoes in the Slow Cooker
A hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker recipe combines the flavors of garlic butter, Italian sausage, and tender potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine the Italian sausages, potatoes, butter, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips:
– Use any type of potato you like, such as Yukon golds or Russet.
– Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste.
– Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Zucchini Medley
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Zucchini Medley Recipe
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty, slow-cooked medley of juicy sausage and tender zucchini.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, zucchinis, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chicken broth.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Red Wine Gravy
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Red Wine Gravy
Transform your mealtime with this hearty and flavorful slow-cooked dish, featuring Italian sausage and rich red wine gravy.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage links
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage links in a skillet over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer the browned sausage to the slow cooker. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, red wine, diced tomatoes, and dried oregano.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve hot over cooked pasta, polenta, or as a main dish.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these 20 hearty Italian sausage slow cooker comfort recipes! From classic pasta dishes to spicy soups and stews, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers or Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta in the Slow Cooker. Or, warm up with a bowl of Tuscan-Style Italian Sausage and Bean Slow Cooker Stew or Spicy Italian Sausage and Kale Soup in the Crockpot. Whether you’re in the mood for something cheesy, herby, or simply satisfying, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
