15+ Italian Sausage Recipes: Delicious Dishes to Spice Up Your Meals
Italian sausage is a flavorful ingredient that adds a tasty touch to many dishes. From pasta to pizza, it can transform a meal into something special.
Many people enjoy cooking with Italian sausage because of its variety of spices and seasonings. You can use it in a range of recipes that fit any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. With the right recipes, you’ll discover how versatile and enjoyable Italian sausage can be in your cooking.
1) Classic Italian Sausage Lasagna
Classic Italian sausage lasagna is a comforting dish that everyone enjoys. It layers rich flavors and textures that make it a family favorite. You will love how the sausage adds a savory twist to the traditional recipe.
To start, you will need lasagna noodles, Italian sausage, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. The combination of these ingredients creates a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 3 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions.
- In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage until browned. Then, drain the excess fat.
- Mix ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Spread some marinara sauce at the bottom of a baking dish.
- Layer noodles, sausage, cheese mixture, and marinara sauce. Repeat layers.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
- Let it cool before serving. Enjoy your delicious lasagna!
2) Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
This dish is simple and tasty. You will love how the flavors blend together. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
For this recipe, you need Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions. The combination makes a colorful and delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 2 bell peppers (any color)
- 1 onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Cooking Instructions
- Slice the sausage into pieces.
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Slice the bell peppers and onion, then add them to the skillet.
- Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the veggies are soft.
- Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Serve warm.
3) Spicy Italian Sausage Rigatoni
Spicy Italian sausage rigatoni is a tasty dish that brings flavor to your table. The combination of spicy sausage, pasta, and a rich sauce makes it a great meal for dinner. With just a few steps, you can enjoy this comforting dish at home.
Ingredients
- 12 oz rigatoni pasta
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the rigatoni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Remove the casing from the sausage and add it to the pan. Then, cook until browned.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Mix in the cooked rigatoni. Then, season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
4) Italian Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers
Italian sausage stuffed bell peppers are a delicious and fun meal. These peppers are filled with a savory mix that brings a lot of flavor. They make a great dinner option or a hearty lunch.
To start, you need to cook the sausage in a pan until it’s browned. Then, mix it with rice, tomatoes, and spices. Next, scoop the mixture into halved bell peppers. Top each pepper with cheese for extra flavor.
Cook the stuffed peppers in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. You want the peppers to be tender and the cheese bubbly. Enjoy this tasty dish!
Ingredients
- 4 bell peppers (any color)
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the Italian sausage in a pan until browned.
- Mix in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cut the bell peppers in half and remove seeds.
- Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture.
- Top with shredded cheese.
- Bake for 30 minutes.
5) Hearty Italian Sausage and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day. You’ll enjoy the warm flavors of Italian sausage, fresh kale, and hearty vegetables. It’s simple to make and very satisfying.
Start by browning sausage in a pot. Then, add chopped onions, carrots, and garlic. Cook until the veggies are soft.
Next, pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add in diced tomatoes and kale. Let it simmer until the kale wilts. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups kale, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Brown the Italian sausage in a large pot.
- Add chopped onions, carrots, and minced garlic; cook until soft.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and chopped kale; simmer until kale wilts.
- Season with salt and pepper, then serve hot.
6) Italian Sausage Pizza with Onions
This Italian sausage pizza is delicious and easy to make. The savory sausage pairs well with sweet onions, creating a great flavor combination.
Start with your favorite pizza dough. Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
Next, cook the Italian sausage in a skillet until browned. Remove it from the heat and set it aside. In the same skillet, sauté sliced onions until they are soft and slightly caramelized.
Spread pizza sauce on the dough. Add a layer of cheese, then top with the cooked sausage and onions.
Bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Enjoy this tasty pizza with family and friends!
Ingredients
- Pizza dough
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, sliced
- Olive oil for cooking
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 475°F (245°C).
- Cook the Italian sausage in a skillet until browned.
- Sauté sliced onions in the same skillet until soft.
- Spread pizza sauce on the dough.
- Add cheese, then top with sausage and onions.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
7) Italian Sausage and Bean Stew
This hearty Italian sausage and bean stew is perfect for a cozy meal. It is full of flavor and packed with protein. You’ll love how simple it is to make.
Start by cooking sliced Italian sausage in a large pot until it’s brown. Then, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions are soft and fragrant.
Next, mix in diced tomatoes, canned beans, and broth. You can use chicken or vegetable broth for extra flavor. Season the stew with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like basil and oregano.
Let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to combine well. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy this comforting dish!
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz/425 g) beans (cannellini or kidney)
- 4 cups (1 liter) broth (chicken or vegetable)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Cooking Instructions
- Brown the sausage in a large pot.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until soft.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and canned beans.
- Pour in the broth and season.
- Simmer for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot with bread.
8) Fettuccine with Italian Sausage and Spinach
This dish combines creamy sauce, savory Italian sausage, and fresh spinach with fettuccine. It’s easy to make and tastes great.
Start by cooking the fettuccine in salted water. You want it al dente, which means it’s firm to the bite. In a separate pan, brown the Italian sausage until it’s cooked through.
Add garlic and spinach, cooking until the spinach wilts. Mix in some heavy cream to create a rich sauce. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the pan with the sausage and spinach.
Serve hot, and sprinkle with parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Cook fettuccine according to package directions.
- In a large pan, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and spinach to the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Toss the cooked fettuccine with the sausage mixture.
- Serve with grated parmesan on top.
9) Grilled Italian Sausage Sandwiches
Grilled Italian sausage sandwiches are a tasty option for any meal. The smoky flavor from the grill pairs well with the savory sausage, making it a crowd-pleaser.
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, about 350°F (175°C). Then, grill the sausages for about 10 to 15 minutes. Turn them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly.
You can serve the sausages on toasted buns. Add your favorite toppings like peppers, onions, or a dollop of marinara sauce. Enjoy your delicious grilled Italian sausage sandwich!
Ingredients
- 4 Italian sausages
- 4 sandwich buns
- 1 bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- Olive oil
- Marinara sauce (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the grill to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the sausages on the grill.
- Grill for 10 to 15 minutes, turning often.
- Toast the sandwich buns on the grill.
- Serve the sausages in buns.
- Top with peppers, onions, and marinara sauce if desired.
10) One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta
One-Pot Italian Sausage Pasta is a simple and delicious meal. You can make it all in one pot, which means less cleanup for you. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want comfort food without a lot of fuss.
Start by cooking Italian sausage in a large pot. Once it is browned, add garlic and onion for flavor. Then, mix in pasta, broth, and your favorite vegetables. Let it simmer until the pasta is cooked and everything is blended.
The dish is creamy and full of flavor. You can sprinkle some cheese on top before serving for an extra touch.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 12 ounces (340 g) pasta
- 4 cups (950 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cups (300 g) mixed vegetables (like bell peppers and spinach)
- 1 cup (100 g) grated cheese (optional)
Cooking Instructions
- Brown the Italian sausage in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion; sauté until soft.
- Stir in pasta and broth.
- Add mixed vegetables and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and let it simmer until pasta is done.
- Stir in cheese if desired before serving.
11) Creamy Italian Sausage Risotto
Creamy Italian sausage risotto is a rich and comforting dish. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner. The combination of savory sausage, creamy rice, and cheese makes it delicious.
Start by cooking the sausage in a pot until it’s browned. Then, add onions and garlic for flavor. Stir in Arborio rice, which will absorb the flavors and create creaminess.
Gradually add chicken broth, stirring frequently. This helps the rice release its starch and become creamy. Near the end, mix in Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
- Add Italian sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until soft.
- Add Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes.
- Gradually add chicken broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly.
- Cook until rice is tender, about 18-20 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper before serving.
12) Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Bake
This Italian sausage and gnocchi bake is comforting and delicious. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of savory sausage and soft gnocchi creates a wonderful dish.
Start by cooking the Italian sausage in a skillet. Once it’s browned, add garlic and onion. Then, mix in the gnocchi and your favorite marinara sauce.
Transfer everything to a baking dish. Top it with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- Olive oil for cooking
Cooking Instructions
- Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the gnocchi and marinara sauce.
- Pour the mixture into a baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
13) Stuffed Mushrooms with Italian Sausage
Stuffed mushrooms with Italian sausage are a tasty appetizer that will impress your guests. They are easy to make and full of flavor.
Start by cleaning your mushrooms and removing the stems. In a bowl, mix cooked Italian sausage with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. This mixture will give your mushrooms a rich taste.
Fill each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture. Place them on a baking sheet and sprinkle some extra cheese on top. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until they are golden brown.
These stuffed mushrooms are perfect for parties or any get-together. They are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 12 large mushrooms
- 1 cup cooked Italian sausage (crumbled)
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Clean the mushrooms and remove the stems.
- In a bowl, mix sausage, breadcrumbs, cheese, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each mushroom cap with the mixture.
- Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet and sprinkle extra cheese on top.
- Bake for 20 minutes until golden brown.
14) Zuppa Toscana with Italian Sausage
Zuppa Toscana is a hearty soup that features Italian sausage. It’s perfect for chilly days and has a delicious mix of flavors. The creamy broth and tasty sausage make it a favorite.
To make this soup, you start by cooking the sausage until it’s browned. Then, add onions and garlic for added flavor. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer.
Next, add potatoes and cook until they are tender. Finish the soup with kale and heavy cream for creaminess. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 cup kale, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- In a pot, cook the sausage over medium heat until browned.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until soft.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add diced potatoes and cook until tender.
- Stir in the kale and heavy cream, season with salt and pepper.
15) Italian Sausage and Tomato Sauce
Italian sausage and tomato sauce make a flavorful pair. This dish is perfect for pasta, pizza, or even to enjoy on its own.
Start by cooking your Italian sausage in a pan until it’s brown. Once cooked, remove it and set it aside. In the same pan, add diced onions and garlic. Sauté them until softened.
Next, add crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, and the sausage back to the pan. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This allows the flavors to mix well.
Serve this sauce over spaghetti or as a pizza topping. You can also add grated cheese on top for extra flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 28 ounces (800 g) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Cook the sausage in a pan over medium heat until it browns.
- Remove the sausage and set it aside.
- Sauté diced onions and garlic in the same pan.
- Add crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning.
- Return the sausage to the pan.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Serve over pasta or as a pizza topping.