When it comes to ground beef and Italian sausage, the possibilities are endless. These two flavorful ingredients can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from classic comfort foods to international-inspired meals. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious recipe ideas that showcase the best of both worlds. From hearty casseroles to quick and easy skillet dinners, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re a busy home cook or a seasoned chef, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And with their rich flavors and satisfying textures, they’re perfect for any occasion – from family dinner nights to casual gatherings with friends.
In this article, we’ll dive into some of our favorite ground beef and Italian sausage recipes, including classic combinations like lasagna and meatballs, as well as some more unexpected twists, like tacos and quesadillas. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Spicy Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Lasagna
This hearty lasagna combines the flavors of spicy Italian sausage and ground beef with a rich tomato sauce, all wrapped up in layers of pasta and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage and ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate pot, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
6. Assemble lasagna by layering cooked meat sauce, noodles, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers
This hearty recipe combines the flavors of ground beef, Italian sausage, and melted cheese with bell peppers for a satisfying main dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, followed by cheese and oregano.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Homemade Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Meatballs
Elevate your pasta dishes or pizza nights with these homemade ground beef and Italian sausage meatballs. With a blend of flavors and textures, you’ll never go back to store-bought again.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well with your hands until just combined – do not 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 space between each.
6. Drizzle olive oil and gently roll the meatballs to coat evenly.
7. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Savory Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Pasta Bake
Savory Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Pasta Bake
This hearty pasta bake combines the flavors of Italian sausage and ground beef with penne pasta, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to share with family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 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.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage and ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and mozzarella cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Hearty Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Chili
This rich and flavorful chili recipe combines the comforting taste of ground beef and Italian sausage with a medley of aromatics and spices. Perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing potluck, this hearty chili is sure to warm hearts and bellies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chopped bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef and Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional).
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Alfredo
This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavors of ground beef and Italian sausage with a creamy alfredo sauce, perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and dried basil. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta and beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Classic Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Pizza
Classic Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Pizza Recipe
This hearty pizza combines the flavors of Italian sausage and ground beef with mozzarella cheese and fresh basil, perfect for a satisfying dinner or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb classic Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces.
4. Stir in onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
6. Spread marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
7. Top with sausage-beef mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Flavorful Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this hearty, flavorful twist on classic stuffed shells. Rich ground beef and savory Italian sausage mingle with creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella in a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion and garlic to skillet; cook until softened.
5. Stir in ricotta cheese and beaten egg until smooth.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the meat mixture and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with shredded mozzarella and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Tacos
A twist on traditional tacos, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a Mexican favorite. Savor the rich taste of Italian sausage and ground beef in a spicy tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Tortillas, shredded cheese, and toppings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Warm tortillas according to package instructions. Assemble tacos by spooning the meat mixture onto tortillas.
Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
Rich Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Bolognese
This classic Italian dish is a staple for any meat lover’s repertoire. With its rich flavor profile, tender texture, and comforting aroma, this bolognese is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, crushed tomatoes, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Delicious Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Calzones
A twist on traditional calzones, this recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage and ground beef with melted mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 package pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage and ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
5. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place 1/4 cup meat mixture onto one half of the dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border around edges.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Fold other half of dough over filling, pressing edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until pastry is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zesty Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef and Italian sausage with a zesty kick from bell peppers and onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced (any color)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken broth, tomato paste, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Ziti
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of baked Italian sausage with ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and tender ziti pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage and ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking 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.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and mozzarella cheese; mix well.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Savory Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the rich flavors of ground beef, Italian sausage, and mashed potatoes. Perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook ground beef and Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas and carrots, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Spread mashed potatoes over the top of the meat mixture.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Jambalaya
A hearty one-pot dish that combines the flavors of Italy and Louisiana, this Spicy Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Jambalaya is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large 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 cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage and ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Comforting Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of ground beef and Italian sausage with pasta, tomatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup penne pasta
– 2 cups 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 350°F.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, meat mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tangy Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Sliders
Experience the bold flavors of Italy with these mouthwatering sliders that combine sweet and savory notes. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or a fun appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 4 Italian sausage links, casings removed
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Provolone cheese, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 8-10 patties.
4. Brush the grates with olive oil and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by a slice of Provolone cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Garlicky Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Risotto
A hearty and flavorful risotto dish packed with garlicky ground beef, sweet Italian sausage, and creamy Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup dry white wine
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
5. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Add the white wine and cook until absorbed.
7. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
8. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, the risotto should be creamy and tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Italian Sausage and Ground Beef Quesadillas
Elevate your quesadilla game with the savory flavors of smoky Italian sausage and ground beef. This twist on a classic will satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb Smoked Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Vegetable oil for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the sliced Italian sausage and cook until crispy.
4. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle shredded cheese on half of the tortilla.
6. Spoon the meat mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
8. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
9. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Herbed Ground Beef and Italian Sausage Meatloaf
Elevate your meatloaf game with this flavorful combination of ground beef, Italian sausage, and fresh herbs. This hearty dish is perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Italian sausage, parsley, garlic, and oregano. Mix well with your hands or a spoon until just combined.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape on a baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the meatloaf and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
6. Let the meatloaf rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering recipes that combine the flavors of ground beef and Italian sausage. From classic dishes like lasagna and stuffed peppers to creative twists like tacos and quesadillas, these recipes offer something for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a quick weeknight meal, this collection has it all. Get inspired by these flavorful and savory creations that will become new favorites in your kitchen.
