Get ready to ignite your taste buds with these 20 savory recipes that showcase the star power of ground Italian sausage! From classic skillet dinners to creamy pasta dishes and hearty casseroles, we’ve got a wide range of mouthwatering options to spice up your mealtime routine. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or adventurous and new, our collection of Italian-inspired recipes is sure to satisfy.
From traditional pairings like sausage and peppers to more unexpected combinations like sausage and kale, each dish on this list features ground Italian sausage as the main attraction. So go ahead, get creative, and let the flavors of Italy inspire your next culinary masterpiece! In this article, we’ll be counting down our top 20 recipes that highlight the versatility and deliciousness of ground Italian sausage.
Classic Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines juicy Italian sausage, tender bell peppers, and savory onions for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove sausage; set aside.
4. Add peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. Return sausage to the skillet; simmer, covered, for an additional 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 25-30 minutes
Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta with Spinach
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy and indulgent twist. Sausage, spinach, and fettuccine come together in a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add garlic, spinach, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until spinach is wilted and sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sausage mixture in a serving bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and basil.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines sweet Italian sausage with earthy mushrooms and a rich risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. If using wine, add after 3 cups of broth have been absorbed.
7. Cook until the rice is tender and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage Pizza with Fresh Basil
Elevate your pizza game with this bold and flavorful combination of spicy Italian sausage, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant fresh basil. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 4-6 Italian sausage links (hot or mild)
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the crust
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet or pizza stone.
3. Cook Italian sausage links in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Slice into thick rounds.
4. Spread marinara sauce over the pizza crust, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Top with sliced Italian sausage, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the pizza to give it a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines sweet bell peppers with savory Italian sausage and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, then top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hearty Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the creamy texture of cannellini beans. Perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Add beans, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Sausage and Potato Bake with Rosemary
A hearty and flavorful one-dish wonder that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the comfort of roasted potatoes, all infused with the aromatic essence of rosemary.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, and rosemary until well coated.
3. Arrange potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Brown Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Add cooked sausage to the baking sheet with potatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown and sausage is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Italian Sausage and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This hearty stir-fry combines the flavors of garlic butter, Italian sausage, and crisp broccoli for a quick and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Leave any drippings in the pan.
4. Add the butter and garlic to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute or until fragrant.
5. Add the broccoli to the skillet, stirring frequently, until tender but still crisp (about 3-5 minutes).
6. Return the Italian sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the broccoli and garlic butter sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Italian Sausage Lasagna with Ricotta and Mozzarella
Italian Sausage Lasagna with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe
This hearty lasagna recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and melted mozzarella for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles 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 a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked sausage mixture with marinara sauce in a bowl.
6. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Assemble lasagna by spreading a layer of sausage sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by a layer of noodles, then a layer of ricotta mixture. Repeat this process two more times, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Italian Sausage and Kale Frittata
Italian Sausage and Kale Frittata Recipe
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the nutritious goodness of kale. This recipe is perfect for a crowd or a quick meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the olive oil and cook the diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Crack in the eggs and stir gently to combine with the sausage and kale mixture.
6. Pour the egg mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish or oven-safe skillet.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the frittata is golden brown.
Italian Sausage and Caramelized Onion Flatbread
A flavorful flatbread filled with sweet caramelized onions, savory Italian sausage, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread (or pizza dough)
– 4-6 Italian sausages
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook Italian sausages according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium heat with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper until golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Roll out flatbread to desired thickness and place on a baking sheet.
5. Top flatbread with caramelized onions, cooked Italian sausages, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden and cheese is melted.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole
A hearty, one-pot wonder that combines savory sausage, flavorful rice, and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably leftover or day-old)
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 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 (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in marinara sauce; bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked rice, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Italian Sausage and Tomato Basil Gnocchi Recipe
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage, fresh tomatoes, and basil with soft gnocchi for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4-6 Italian-style potato gnocchi
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. 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.
3. Add the olive oil, garlic, and chopped tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Stir in the basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine the cooked sausage and tomato mixture with the gnocchi. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Italian Sausage and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Italian Sausage and Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: A hearty and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the richness of roasted garlic mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, heavy cream or milk, roasted garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Serve:
Mash the potatoes onto a plate or serve alongside the Italian sausage. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Italian Sausage Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Elevate your pasta night with this classic Italian-inspired dish. Tender meatballs infused with Italian sausage and simmered in rich marinara sauce make for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 cup Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add Italian sausage and mix until just combined.
4. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
5. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Simmer marinara sauce over medium heat.
8. Add cooked meatballs to the marinara sauce and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Italian Sausage and Zucchini Noodle Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick-fix meal that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the freshness of zucchini noodles. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 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, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. While the sausage is cooking, spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the cooked sausage and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the olive oil and zucchini noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Sausage and Cabbage Skillet with Parmesan
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, tender cabbage, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pan.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet and cook until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the Italian sausage to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Italian Sausage Penne with Three Cheeses
A creamy, cheesy pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 4 Italian sausage links, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Romano 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 penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato sauce, and cheese mixture (mixing mozzarella, Parmesan, and Romano). Season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe, this dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage and spinach for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and beaten egg; season with salt and pepper.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage mixture and place in a baking dish.
7. Top shells with marinara sauce and additional shredded mozzarella cheese (if desired).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Italian Sausage Breakfast Hash with Fried Eggs
Italian Sausage Breakfast Hash with Fried Eggs
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast hash, featuring spicy Italian sausage, crispy potatoes, and a pair of sunny-side-up eggs. This flavorful dish is perfect for a weekend brunch or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on the prepared baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Make wells in the hash and crack an egg into each well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these 20 savory recipes featuring ground Italian sausage! From classic skillet dishes like Sausage and Peppers Skillet to creamy pasta dishes like Creamy Sausage Pasta with Spinach, there’s something for everyone. Other highlights include hearty soups, flavorful risottos, and satisfying casseroles. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes are sure to please. With their rich flavors and satisfying textures, they’re perfect for any time of year.