As the sun shines bright and warm, our cravings tend to shift towards lighter, brighter flavors that evoke the carefree spirit of summer. And what better way to kick off a sunny evening than with a savory summer sausage dinner? Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next backyard barbecue, we’ve got you covered. From classic pasta dishes to innovative twists on tacos and quesadillas, these 18 mouthwatering summer sausage recipes are sure to become your new go-to’s for the season.
**Get ready to grill, sauté, and savor the flavors of summer with our top picks below…**
Garlic Butter Summer Sausage Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this savory and aromatic Garlic Butter Summer Sausage Pasta recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. The combination of garlic butter, summer sausage, and al dente pasta is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup summer sausage, sliced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add summer sausage and chicken broth to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked pasta and garlic butter mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage and Pepper Skillet
Brighten up your summer with this flavorful and easy-to-make skillet dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in the mixed cherry tomatoes and cooked sausage.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Summer Sausage Quesadillas
Savor the flavors of summer with this innovative take on traditional quesadillas, combining juicy sausage and melted cheese for a satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together sliced summer sausage, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half with cheese.
4. Add the sausage mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per quesadilla
Summer Sausage and Potato Hash
Summer Sausage and Potato Hash Recipe
As the summer heat sets in, this refreshing recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This flavorful dish combines juicy sausage with crispy potatoes and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage (such as chicken or turkey), sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated. Spread on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast potatoes in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
5. While potatoes are roasting, cook sausage slices in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Add garlic and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
7. Serve cooked sausage with roasted potatoes and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Grilled Summer Sausage Kabobs
Elevate your summer gatherings with these flavorful and easy-to-make Grilled Summer Sausage Kabobs. Skewers of juicy sausage, colorful vegetables, and savory cheese come together for a deliciously simple snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into large pieces
– 1 onion, cut into wedges
– 1 zucchini, cut into slices
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8-10 wooden skewers
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Alternate sausage, vegetables, and cheese on skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush skewers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill kabobs for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summer Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers
These colorful bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of summer sausage, rice, and spices, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound summer sausage, sliced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. Add garlic, summer sausage, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes, breaking up sausage with a spoon.
5. Stir in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Summer Sausage Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy and savory recipe that combines the flavors of summer sausage, garlic, and parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook summer sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked fettuccine with summer sausage mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a summer evening, this recipe combines the savory flavors of summer sausage with the creamy richness of mushroom risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 1 summer sausage, sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to combine with mushroom mixture.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add summer sausage and stir to combine.
6. If using wine, add it during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summer Sausage Pizza with Fresh Herbs
Elevate your pizza game with this refreshing summer twist, featuring juicy summer sausage and a medley of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 6 oz summer sausage, sliced
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Top with summer sausage slices, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over sausage.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summer Sausage and Corn Chowder
A refreshing twist on classic corn chowder, this recipe combines the sweetness of summer corn with the savory flavor of sausage for a deliciously easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 slices of summer sausage (such as Knockwurst or Italian sausage), sliced
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add red bell pepper and onion; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add corn kernels, chicken broth, milk, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low; add sliced summer sausage. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Sausage Breakfast for Dinner Scramble
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast-for-dinner scramble featuring sweet summer sausage, crispy potatoes, and fluffy scrambled eggs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 large eggs
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and toss potatoes with cooking spray or oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.
3. In a large skillet, cook sliced summer sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Crack eggs into the same skillet and scramble until cooked through.
5. Add roasted potatoes, shredded cheese, and chopped parsley to the skillet. Stir until combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summer Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This summer-inspired twist on traditional stuffed shells combines the flavors of juicy sausage, wilted spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese. Perfect for a warm-weather dinner party or family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb summer sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook summer sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and wilt into the sausage mixture.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg; mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage-spinach mixture, then place in a baking dish.
7. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Sausage Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the savory taste of summer sausage with the freshness of vegetables and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced summer sausage
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the summer sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in 1-2 eggs (optional) and scramble them until cooked through. Then, mix the eggs with the vegetables.
5. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage and Cheddar Biscuit Bake
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a warm-weather gathering or casual dinner. This recipe combines the savory flavors of summer sausage with the flaky goodness of cheddar biscuits.
Ingredients:
- 1 package of summer sausage (such as Knockwurst), sliced
- 2 cups of biscuit mix
- 1/2 cup of cold butter, cut into small pieces
- 3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for brushing biscuits)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the sliced summer sausage over medium-high heat until browned on both sides.
- In a separate bowl, combine the biscuit mix, cold butter, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until just combined.
- Roll out the biscuit mixture to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cut into squares or use a cookie cutter for fun shapes.
- Place the biscuits on top of the cooked summer sausage in the skillet or Dutch oven. Brush with beaten egg.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until biscuits are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing summer twist! Juicy summer sausage, crunchy slaw, and creamy avocado lime crema come together for a flavor-packed fiesta in your mouth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Grill or cook the summer sausage according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix together shredded cabbage, diced red bell pepper, and chopped cilantro.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing cooked summer sausage onto warmed tortillas, topping with slaw mixture, and finishing with avocado lime crema (mix mashed avocado with lime juice).
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summer Sausage and White Bean Stew
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer stew that combines savory sausage, creamy white beans, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven 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 minutes.
4. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, white wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summer Sausage Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the smoky flavor of summer sausage, perfect for a satisfying meal or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 cup summer sausage, sliced
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add sliced summer sausage to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked macaroni, cheese mixture (combined cheddar and Parmesan), and milk. Stir until smooth.
6. Combine macaroni mixture with onion and summer sausage mixture in the skillet. Stir until well combined.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the macaroni is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Sausage and Roasted Veggie Sheet Pan Dinner
This hearty sheet pan dinner is perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Juicy summer sausage pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, making it a satisfying and healthy option for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 2-3 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 2-3 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 large red onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the sliced summer sausage on one half of the pan.
4. Toss the chopped bell peppers, zucchinis, and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on the other half of the pan.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with minced garlic. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your summer with these delicious sausage recipes! From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese, to international flavors like tacos and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Summer Sausage Pasta, Summer Sausage and Pepper Skillet, or Creamy Summer Sausage Alfredo. Or get creative with stuffed peppers, grilled kabobs, and cheesy rice bowls. With 18 savory recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of ideas for a satisfying dinner.