Get ready to spice up your meals with the bold flavor of ground Italian sausage! This versatile ingredient can add a delicious twist to everything from pasta dishes and pizza to soups, salads, and even breakfast recipes. Whether you’re looking for a hearty one-pot meal or a quick and easy weeknight dinner, we’ve got 18 flavorful recipes that showcase the best of ground Italian sausage.
From classic spaghetti with meat sauce to creative twists like stuffed peppers and zucchini boats, our collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next culinary adventure. So go ahead, get cooking, and discover the many ways you can incorporate this tasty ingredient into your daily meals!
Spaghetti with Italian Sausage Meat Sauce
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this spaghetti with Italian sausage meat sauce is a crowd-pleaser. Ground Italian sausage adds a savory twist to the traditional tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb ground Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and beef broth. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and meat sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta Bake
Savor the flavors of Italy with this comforting pasta bake, featuring spicy Italian sausage, creamy sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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 into small pieces as it cooks. Remove from heat.
4. Add garlic, onion, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir to combine, then stir in Parmesan cheese and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Italian Sausage and Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a one-pot meal. Italian sausage, rice, vegetables, and tomato sauce come together to create a satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return sausage to the pot and bring mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Stuffed Peppers with Italian Sausage and Quinoa
This hearty recipe combines sweet bell peppers with savory Italian sausage and nutty quinoa for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for a quick dinner or a crowd-pleasing brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked quinoa and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each pepper with the sausage-quinoa mixture and top with additional cheese if desired.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and flavorful risotto dish packed with Italian sausage and earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 10 minutes.
3. Add rice; cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next. Cook, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Stir in wine (if using), butter, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Italian Sausage Pizza
A classic combination of flavors, this homemade Italian sausage pizza brings together the savory taste of sausage and the richness of melted mozzarella cheese on a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness and place on a baking sheet.
3. Cook Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with spoon until browned.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Spread marinara sauce over the pizza dough, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
6. Top with cooked sausage mixture, mozzarella cheese, and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Zuppa Toscana with Ground Italian Sausage
This hearty, one-pot soup is a twist on the classic Olive Garden recipe, packed with flavorful ground Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and creamy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add potatoes, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Italian Sausage Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the natural sweetness of zucchini. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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 until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the sausage mixture, topping with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Italian Sausage and Veggies
This recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With just a few ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage links
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 zucchini, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange sausage links on one half of the sheet pan, leaving space between each link.
4. On the other half, spread out bell peppers, onion, garlic, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the vegetables and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the sausage links in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with parsley if using. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Italian Sausage and Potatoes
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines the richness of garlic butter with the savory taste of Italian sausage and tender potatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, your preference)
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
4. Add Italian sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes, browning on all sides.
5. Add potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Cover pot with a lid or foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Cheesy Italian Sausage Stuffed Shells
A classic comfort food dish gets a delicious twist with the addition of savory Italian sausage and melted mozzarella cheese. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella 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.
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 into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage mixture, followed by a spoonful of ricotta cheese.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, featuring Italian sausage, cannellini beans, and aromatic vegetables. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups 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 pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and carrots; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Baked Penne with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella
A hearty, satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of Italy – penne pasta, spicy Italian sausage, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend family meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook penne pasta 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 it cooks.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked penne pasta, sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Skillet Italian Sausage and Peppers
This hearty one-skillet meal combines juicy Italian sausage with sweet bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes for a flavorful and satisfying dinner. It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add more cooking spray or olive oil if needed, then add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the Italian sausage to the skillet, along with the cherry tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Manicotti
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italian sausage, spinach, and ricotta cheese with tender manicotti shells. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 package manicotti shells
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook manicotti 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 it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stuff each manicotti shell with the sausage and cheese mixture. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Lasagna
This recipe is a twist on the classic lasagna, with the added flavor of Italian sausage cooked low and slow in a crock pot. Perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, 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. Place the cooked sausage mixture, crushed tomatoes, lasagna noodles, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and dried oregano in a slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Grilled Italian Sausage and Polenta Bites
A flavorful and savory appetizer or snack, these grilled sausage and polenta bites are perfect for any occasion. The combination of spicy Italian sausage and creamy polenta is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage
– 2 cups polenta
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook polenta according to package instructions using 4 cups of water. Mix in 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill Italian sausage for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Cut grilled sausage into 1-inch pieces.
5. Shape cooled polenta into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
6. Assemble bites by placing a piece of sausage onto each polenta ball and serving with optional parsley and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Bread with Italian Sausage Topping
Elevate your bread game with this savory and flavorful garlic bread topped with Italian sausage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread (14-16 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Slice French bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread garlic butter mixture evenly onto each bread slice.
5. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
6. Add chopped onion to skillet and cook until translucent.
7. Assemble by placing cooked sausage and onion mixture on top of garlic bread slices.
8. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste; add grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
9. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and toppings are heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 18 mouthwatering recipes featuring ground Italian sausage! From classic spaghetti and meatball dishes to creative twists like stuffed peppers and zucchini boats, there’s something for every taste and dietary need. These easy-to-make recipes are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. With flavors ranging from rich and savory to creamy and cheesy, you’ll be hooked on these Italian-inspired eats in no time! Whether you’re a sausage aficionado or just looking for some new inspiration, this collection is sure to become a go-to resource.
