When it comes to adding flavor and excitement to your meals, few ingredients can rival the versatility and richness of ground Italian sausage. This beloved staple of Italian cuisine can be used in a wide range of dishes, from classic pasta sauces to hearty skillet meals, and even sweet breakfast treats. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of ground Italian sausage.
From comforting casseroles to innovative twists on old favorites, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. So why wait? Dive into the world of ground Italian sausage today and discover a whole new level of flavor and fun!
Spaghetti with Italian Sausage and Marinara Sauce
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the rich flavors of marinara sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying serving of spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, your preference)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausages and cook, browning on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and marinara sauce. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the cooked sausages back into the sauce and stir to coat.
6. Combine the reserved pasta water with the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve the spaghetti with the Italian sausage and marinara sauce, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Italian Sausage Pizza
Savor the flavors of Italy with this classic homemade pizza recipe featuring juicy Italian sausage and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 4-6 Italian sausage links, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Spread crushed tomatoes evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Top with cooked Italian sausage mixture, mozzarella cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Bake
A rich and satisfying pasta bake that combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a warm, creamy dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and heavy cream in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Sprinkle with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Italian Sausage
These flavorful bell peppers are packed with juicy Italian sausage, cheese, and aromatic herbs. A perfect main course for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
A hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, this Italian sausage and peppers skillet is a flavorful and satisfying option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the sliced peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to coat with the tomato mixture.
7. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Italian Sausage Lasagna
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the flavors of sausage, cheese, and pasta in a hearty lasagna.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet, breaking apart with spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 10 minutes.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture and mozzarella cheese.
7. Assemble the lasagna by spreading a layer of sausage mixture in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles, then a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this hearty and comforting risotto dish, featuring sweet Italian sausage and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Leave any drippings behind.
3. Add the olive oil to the skillet, then sauté the mushrooms and onion until tender.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. If using wine, add it to the skillet and cook until absorbed.
6. Gradually add the warmed broth, stirring continuously, until the rice is cooked and creamy.
7. Stir in the butter, sausage, salt, and pepper.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Italian Sausage
Transform your pasta night into a healthy and flavorful experience with this easy-to-make recipe. Zucchini noodles, also known as “zoodles,” are a low-carb alternative to traditional spaghetti that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize zucchinis into noodles and set aside.
3. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked zucchini noodles and sausage mixture. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Italian Sausage Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Elevate your zucchini game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly among the four boats.
6. Top each boat with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
One-Pot Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
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
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage and spinach with a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach leaves until wilted.
6. Stuff cooked pasta shells with sausage mixture.
7. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with crushed tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Italian Sausage and Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe combines flavorful garlic butter sausages with tender potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, your preference)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon of butter, salt, and pepper until they’re evenly coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Cook sausages in the same oven for 15-20 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, melt remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
6. Remove sausages from oven and brush with garlic butter mixture.
7. Serve sausages alongside roasted potatoes, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Italian Sausage and Kale Pasta
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the nutty flavor of kale.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic and cook until softened. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted.
5. Add cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage-kale mixture, and chicken broth in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Italian Sausage Meatballs
Elevate your pasta nights with these flavorful and tender meatballs, infused with the richness of Italian sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
4. Use your hands to shape mixture into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and gently roll them to coat evenly.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through, lightly browned on the outside.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Italian Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Manicotti
A classic Italian dish gets a flavorful twist with the addition of sweet Italian sausage and creamy ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 manicotti shells
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook manicotti shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
4. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
5. Stuff each manicotti shell with the sausage mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes to brown tops.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grilled Italian Sausage and Veggie Kabobs
A flavorful twist on traditional kabobs, these grilled Italian sausage and veggie skewers are perfect for a quick and easy dinner or outdoor gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage (such as sweet or hot sausage)
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 onion, cut into large pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, cut into large slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally.
5. If using mozzarella cheese, sprinkle on top of kabobs during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Italian Sausage and Tomato Gnocchi
This hearty recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with the comforting warmth of homemade gnocchi, all wrapped up in a savory tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (canned or fresh)
– 1 cup gnocchi dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet, leaving the drippings behind.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed tomatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or homemade recipe. Drain and set aside.
6. Add the cooked sausage back into the tomato sauce; stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the Italian sausage and tomato mixture over the cooked gnocchi. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Lentil Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of slow cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, onion, garlic, lentils, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano to the slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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)
Italian Sausage Breakfast Hash with Eggs
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 6 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: Chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add bell peppers and onions to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add potatoes to the skillet; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they’re tender.
5. Crack eggs into a bowl and whisk together. Pour eggs over the sausage and potato mixture in the skillet.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until eggs are set.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes total
Easy Italian Sausage and Cheese Calzones
Easy Italian Sausage and Cheese Calzones
A flavorful twist on traditional calzones, these Easy Italian Sausage and Cheese Calzones are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
5. Place 1/2 cup of the sausage mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling; press edges to seal.
8. Brush tops with olive oil and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 delicious recipes featuring ground Italian sausage as the star ingredient! From classic pasta dishes like Spaghetti with Italian Sausage and Marinara Sauce, to creative twists like Stuffed Bell Peppers with Italian Sausage, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty one-pot soup or a satisfying breakfast dish, these recipes are sure to please. So go ahead, get cooking, and let the aroma of sizzling sausage fill your kitchen!
