Italian Sausage Recipes: Delicious Dishes to Make Tonight

Right, so you're craving some hearty, flavourful italian sausage, are you? You've come to the right place! As a seasoned food lover, I've got a real passion for Italian cuisine and have been experimenting with Italian sausage for years. From classic comfort food to slightly more adventurous dishes, there's so much you can do with this versatile ingredient. I'm excited to share some of my favourite recipes with you, whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out. Let's get this culinary journey started!

(Part 1) Classic Italian sausage dishes: The Tried and True

Let's start with some classics, shall we? These are the dishes that immediately come to mind when you think of Italian sausage, the ones that never fail to hit the spot.

1. Italian Sausage and Peppers: A Comforting Classic

This dish is a true crowd-pleaser, and it's so easy to make! I always use a mix of green, red, and yellow peppers for a bit of visual interest and a burst of different flavours. And a generous pinch of crushed red pepper flakes? That's my secret ingredient for a touch of heat that really wakes up the taste buds. It's the perfect meal for a weeknight dinner and tastes even better the next day!

How to Make It:

1. Slice your Italian sausage into bite-sized pieces and brown it in a large skillet over medium heat. You want those sausage pieces nice and crispy!
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. Add your chopped peppers to the skillet and cook until they're tender-crisp.
3. Add your browned sausage back to the skillet and stir everything together.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and that generous pinch of red pepper flakes. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end? That's my little trick for a little extra zing, it really elevates the dish.
5. Serve hot over rice, pasta, or even just with some crusty bread for a delicious and easy meal.

Tips for the Perfect Italian Sausage and Peppers:

• Choosing your Peppers: Go for a mix of green, red, and yellow peppers. Green peppers are crisp and slightly tart, red peppers are sweet and juicy, and yellow peppers have a mild, buttery flavour.
• Adjusting the Heat: If you like it spicy, add a bit more red pepper flakes. If you prefer milder flavours, you can use less, or even omit them entirely.
• Serving Suggestions: Get creative! Try serving your Italian sausage and peppers over polenta, in a pita bread wrap, or on top of a salad.

2. Italian Sausage and potato soup: A Hearty and Comforting Delight

For those chilly evenings, this hearty soup is the perfect comfort food. The rich flavour of the Italian sausage combined with creamy potatoes makes for a truly satisfying meal. I like to add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to each bowl for a little extra richness. The creamy texture and the smoky flavour of the sausage are a perfect combination.

How to Make It:

1. Sauté your chopped onions and garlic in a large pot with some olive oil.
2. Add your cubed potatoes and cook until they start to soften.
3. Add your Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as you cook.
4. Pour in your broth and bring everything to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are cooked through.
5. Puree some of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender to thicken it up. You can choose to puree all of it or just a portion for a chunkier texture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a touch of dried herbs like oregano and thyme.
7. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a crusty slice of bread.

Tips for a Perfect Italian Sausage and Potato Soup:

• Choose your Potatoes: russet potatoes are good for this soup, but you can also use Yukon Gold or red potatoes.
• Add Some Greens: For a boost of nutrients, stir in some chopped spinach or kale towards the end of cooking.
• Experiment with Flavour: Try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a bay leaf to the soup for a deeper flavour.

3. Italian Sausage stuffed peppers: A Show-Stopping Dish

This dish is a little more involved, but it's totally worth the effort. It's a beautiful and flavourful meal that's perfect for a special occasion or even a relaxed weekend dinner. You can stuff the peppers with a mixture of Italian sausage, rice, cheese, and vegetables. I like to add some chopped tomatoes and spinach for extra flavour and nutrition.

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut the tops off of your bell peppers and scoop out the seeds and membranes.
3. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet and drain off any excess fat. This helps to prevent the filling from becoming too greasy.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage with cooked rice, shredded cheese, and your favourite chopped vegetables. I often add a mix of red onion, diced tomatoes, and chopped spinach.
5. Stuff the pepper halves with the sausage mixture and place them in a baking dish.
6. Pour some chicken broth or tomato sauce into the baking dish, this creates a sauce that the peppers will cook in. Bake for about 45 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Serve with a side of salad or roasted vegetables.

Tips for perfect stuffed peppers:

• Pre-Cooking the Rice: Cook your rice according to the package directions and let it cool completely before mixing it with the sausage and vegetables.
• Choosing the Right Peppers: Use large bell peppers for stuffing. You can use different colours for a visually appealing dish.
• Adding More Flavour: Try adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to the filling for a more intense tomato flavour.

(Part 2) Beyond the Classics: Exploring New Flavours with Italian Sausage

Now, let's move on to some more adventurous dishes that highlight the versatility of Italian sausage. You might be surprised by how well it pairs with different flavours and ingredients.

4. Italian Sausage and white bean stew: Hearty and Delicious

This hearty stew is perfect for a cold winter's day. The combination of Italian sausage, white beans, and vegetables provides a hearty and satisfying meal. I like to add a splash of white wine to the stew for a little extra depth of flavour. It adds a touch of complexity to the dish.

How to Make It:

1. Sauté your chopped onions and garlic in a large pot with some olive oil.
2. Add your chopped vegetables, such as carrots, celery, and potatoes.
3. Add your Italian sausage and cook until it's browned and cooked through.
4. Pour in your broth and white wine. Add the white beans and bring the stew to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs.
7. Serve hot with a crusty slice of bread or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for a Delicious White Bean Stew:

• Using Different Beans: You can use other beans, such as cannellini beans, kidney beans, or black beans.
• Adding Greens: Towards the end of cooking, stir in some chopped kale, spinach, or chard for added flavour and nutrition.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this stew with a side of crusty bread, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Italian Sausage Pizza: A Delicious Twist

Forget pepperoni, this is a pizza with a twist! Italian sausage is a fantastic topping for pizza, offering a rich and meaty flavour. I like to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and a drizzle of honey for a bit of sweetness and heat. This creates a delicious balance of flavours, and the honey really brings out the richness of the sausage.

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Stretch your pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface.
3. Spread your favourite pizza sauce over the dough.
4. Top with crumbled Italian sausage.
5. Add your other favourite pizza toppings, like onions, peppers, and mushrooms.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle with red pepper flakes before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Italian Sausage Pizza:

• Pre-Cooking the Sausage: For an even distribution of flavour, pre-cook the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the pizza.
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with your pizza toppings! Try adding caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or even fresh herbs.
• Honey and Red Pepper Flakes: Don't skip the honey and red pepper flakes, they really take this pizza to the next level.

6. Italian Sausage Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce: A Delightful Combination

This dish is a delicious combination of creamy and tangy flavours. The creamy tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the Italian sausage, and the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavours. It's a comforting and satisfying meal.

How to Make It:

1. Cook your pasta according to the package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, sauté chopped onions and garlic in a large skillet with some olive oil.
3. Add your Italian sausage and cook until it's browned and cooked through.
4. Add a can of crushed tomatoes and a cup of heavy cream to the skillet.
5. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of dried herbs like oregano and basil.
7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat.
8. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for the Perfect Creamy Tomato Sauce:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Use fresh basil for a more intense flavour.
• Add a Pinch of Sugar: A pinch of sugar can help to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try adding other cheeses to the sauce, such as ricotta cheese or mozzarella cheese.

(Part 3) Italian Sausage for Breakfast: A Delicious Morning Treat

Now, who says Italian sausage can't be enjoyed for breakfast? It's a great way to add a bit of flavour and protein to your morning meal.

7. Italian Sausage and Egg Breakfast Sandwiches: A Savoury Start to Your Day

These sandwiches are a fantastic way to start your day. The combination of fluffy eggs, savoury Italian sausage, and melted cheese is a real winner. It's a hearty and satisfying breakfast that will keep you going until lunchtime.

How to Make It:

1. Cook your Italian sausage in a skillet until it's browned and cooked through.
2. While the sausage is cooking, cook your eggs in a separate skillet. You can scramble them, fry them, or make an omelet.
3. Toast your english muffins or bagels.
4. Assemble your sandwiches by layering the toasted bread, sausage, eggs, and cheese.
5. Serve hot with a side of fruit or hash browns.

Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Sandwich:

• Adding Vegetables: Try adding chopped bell peppers, onions, or spinach to your eggs for a more nutritious and flavorful breakfast sandwich.
• Choosing your Cheese: Use your favourite cheese for your breakfast sandwich. Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, or even pepper jack cheese are all delicious options.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these sandwiches with a side of fresh fruit, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a cup of coffee.

8. Italian Sausage and Pepper Breakfast Skillet: A Hearty and Flavorful Skillet Meal

This is a hearty and delicious breakfast skillet that's perfect for a weekend brunch or a busy weekday morning. It's packed with flavor and protein, and it's easy to make.

How to Make It:

1. Cook your Italian sausage in a large skillet until it's browned and cooked through.
2. Add your chopped peppers, onions, and garlic to the skillet and cook until they're tender-crisp.
3. Add your eggs to the skillet and cook them to your liking. You can scramble them, fry them, or make an omelet.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
5. Serve hot with a side of toast or biscuits.

Tips for a Perfect Breakfast Skillet:

• Add Some Cheese: Stir in some shredded cheese towards the end of cooking for a cheesy and gooey breakfast skillet.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this skillet with a side of toast, biscuits, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt.
• Make it Ahead: You can make this skillet ahead of time and reheat it in the morning.

(Part 4) Italian Sausage for the Grill: Summertime Delights

Let's get outside and enjoy some grilled Italian sausage! It's perfect for summer barbecues and casual get-togethers.

9. Grilled Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions: A summertime classic

This is a classic summertime dish that's simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. The combination of smoky grilled sausage, sweet peppers, and onions is simply irresistible. It's a perfect dish to serve with a side of potato salad or coleslaw.

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Skewer your Italian sausage, peppers, and onions onto metal skewers.
3. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the peppers and onions are tender-crisp and slightly charred.
4. Serve hot with a side of potato salad or coleslaw.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Italian Sausage:

• Don't Overcook the Sausage: Overcooked sausage can be dry and tough. Make sure to cook it to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Char the Peppers and Onions: For a smoky flavour, char the peppers and onions on the grill.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish with a side of potato salad, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.

10. Grilled Italian Sausage and Pineapple Skewers: A Sweet and Savoury Delight

This is a delicious and refreshing take on grilled Italian sausage. The sweet and tangy pineapple pairs perfectly with the savoury sausage, making for a truly delightful combination. It's a great option for a light summer meal or a barbecue.

How to Make It:

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat.
2. Cut your pineapple into bite-sized chunks.
3. Skewer your Italian sausage and pineapple chunks onto metal skewers.
4. Grill for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the pineapple is slightly caramelized.
5. Serve hot with a side of rice or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Grilled Pineapple Skewers:

• Choose Ripe Pineapple: Use a ripe pineapple for the best flavour.
• Caramelize the Pineapple: Grill the pineapple until it's slightly caramelized for a sweeter flavour.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these skewers with a side of rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad.

(Part 5) Italian Sausage Recipes: Creative Variations

Let's explore some creative ways to use Italian sausage, incorporating different flavours and ingredients to elevate your cooking game.

11. Italian Sausage and Kale Pasta: A Flavorful and Healthy Dish

This is a flavorful and healthy pasta dish that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. The kale adds a touch of bitterness that balances out the richness of the Italian sausage, and the lemon juice brightens up the dish. It's a satisfying and nutritious meal.

How to Make It:

1. Cook your pasta according to the package directions.
2. While the pasta is cooking, sauté chopped onions and garlic in a large skillet with some olive oil.
3. Add your Italian sausage and cook until it's browned and cooked through.
4. Add chopped kale to the skillet and cook until it's wilted.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
7. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips for a Perfect Italian Sausage and Kale Pasta:

• Use Fresh Kale: Use fresh kale for the best flavour and texture.
• Massage the Kale: Before adding the kale to the skillet, massage it with a little bit of olive oil. This helps to soften the kale and make it more tender.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this pasta dish with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

12. Italian Sausage and sweet potato hash: A Hearty and Sweet Hash

This hash is a delicious and hearty meal that's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs perfectly with the savoury Italian sausage, and the addition of peppers and onions adds a touch of freshness. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of day.

How to Make It:

1. Dice your sweet potatoes and cook them in a large skillet with some olive oil until they're tender and slightly caramelized.
2. Add your Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until it's browned and cooked through.
3. Add chopped peppers and onions to the skillet and cook until they're tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
5. Serve hot with a fried egg or a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for a Perfect Italian Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash:

• Choose Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes that are firm and have smooth skin for the best flavour and texture.
• Don't Overcook the Sweet Potatoes: Overcooked sweet potatoes can become mushy. Cook them until they're tender but still hold their shape.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this hash with a fried egg, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs.

13. Italian Sausage and bean chili: A Hearty and Flavorful Chili

This hearty chili is perfect for a cold winter's day. The Italian sausage adds a richness and depth of flavour to the chili, and the beans provide a hearty and filling texture. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that will warm you up from the inside out.

How to Make It:

1. Brown your Italian sausage in a large pot and drain off any excess fat.
2. Add chopped onions, garlic, and peppers to the pot and cook until they're softened.
3. Add your chili beans, diced tomatoes, and broth to the pot.
4. Bring the chili to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the chili has thickened.
5. Season with salt, pepper, cumin, chili powder, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
6. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a slice of cornbread.

Tips for a Perfect Italian Sausage and Bean Chili:

• Use a Variety of Beans: For a more flavorful chili, use a mix of beans, such as kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans.
• Add Some Heat: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chipotle powder to the chili for a bit of heat.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this chili with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, chopped onions, or a slice of cornbread.

(Part 6) Italian Sausage with Different Flavours: Exploring Beyond Traditional

Let's expand our culinary horizons and experiment with different flavour profiles. It's time to get adventurous with Italian sausage!

14. Italian Sausage and Mango Salsa: A Sweet and Spicy Combination

This dish is a delightful combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavours. The mango salsa adds a touch of tropical sweetness to the savoury Italian sausage. It's a great way to add a bit of brightness and freshness to your meal.

How to Make It:

1. Dice your mango, red onion, and jalapeno pepper.
2. Combine the diced ingredients in a bowl with chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the salsa over grilled Italian sausage, or use it as a topping for tacos, quesadillas, or salads.

Tips for a Perfect Mango Salsa:

• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder salsa, omit the jalapeno pepper or use a milder variety.
• Use Ripe Mango: Use a ripe mango for the best flavour and sweetness.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this salsa with grilled or pan-fried Italian sausage, or use it as a topping for tacos, quesadillas, or salads.

15. Italian Sausage and Apple Slaw: A Refreshing and Delicious Combination

This is a refreshing and delicious dish that's perfect for a light summer meal. The sweetness of the apples and the tangy dressing complement the savoury Italian sausage. It's a great way to lighten up a heavier meal.

How to Make It:

1. Thinly slice your apples and red cabbage.
2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples and cabbage with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve the slaw alongside grilled or pan-fried Italian sausage.

Tips for a Perfect Apple Slaw:

• Choose Apples: Use a variety of apples for the best flavour, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples.
• Adjust the Dressing: Adjust the amount of dressing to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter slaw, add a bit more honey or maple syrup to the dressing.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this slaw alongside grilled or pan-fried Italian sausage.

16. Italian Sausage and Peanut Sauce: A Unique and Delicious Combination

This dish is a unique and delicious combination of flavours. The peanut sauce adds a nutty and savory element to the Italian sausage. It's a great way to add a bit of an Asian twist to your meal.

How to Make It:

1. Cook your Italian sausage in a skillet until it's browned and cooked through.
2. While the sausage is cooking, prepare your peanut sauce by combining peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, and chili garlic sauce in a small bowl.
3. Add a little bit of water to the peanut sauce mixture to thin it out, if needed.
4. Toss the cooked Italian sausage with the peanut sauce.
5. Serve over rice or noodles.

Tips for a Perfect Peanut Sauce:

• Use Smooth Peanut Butter: Use smooth peanut butter for a smoother sauce.
• Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a milder sauce, omit the chili garlic sauce.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve this dish over rice, noodles, or even a bed of greens.

(Part 7) Italian Sausage: What to Look for in the Store

When you're at the supermarket, you'll see a wide variety of Italian sausage. Here's what to keep in mind:

1. Type of Sausage:

1. sweet italian sausage: This is the most common type of Italian sausage. It has a mild flavour and is typically made with pork. It's a good choice for those who prefer a less spicy flavour.
2. hot italian sausage: This sausage has a spicier flavour thanks to the addition of red pepper flakes. It's a good choice for those who enjoy a little heat.
3. Mild Italian Sausage: This sausage is a good option if you prefer a less spicy flavour than sweet Italian sausage. It's typically made with pork and has a milder taste.

2. Meat Content:

1. pork sausage: This is the most common type of Italian sausage. It's made with ground pork and is typically seasoned with fennel, garlic, and black pepper.
2. Chicken Sausage: This is a healthier option than pork sausage. It's made with ground chicken and is typically seasoned with herbs and spices.
3. Turkey Sausage: This is another healthier option. It's made with ground turkey and is typically seasoned with herbs and spices.
4. Beef Sausage: Although less common, you can find Italian sausage made with ground beef.

3. Fresh vs. Pre-Cooked:

1. Fresh Sausage: This sausage is uncooked and needs to be cooked before eating. You'll find fresh sausage in the refrigerated section of the supermarket. It has a better texture and flavour.
2. Pre-Cooked Sausage: This sausage has been pre-cooked and can be eaten directly from the package. It's a good option if you're short on time. You can find pre-cooked sausage in the refrigerated or frozen section of the supermarket.

(Part 8) Italian Sausage: A Versatile Culinary Star

Whether you're making a classic Italian sausage and peppers dish or trying something new like Italian sausage and mango salsa, there's no denying that this ingredient is a true culinary star. It's versatile, flavorful, and affordable, making it a great choice for any home cook.

Table of Popular Italian Sausage Dishes

Here's a quick table highlighting some of the most popular Italian sausage dishes, to inspire your culinary journey:

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Italian sausage:

1. What is the difference between sweet Italian sausage and hot Italian sausage?

Sweet Italian sausage has a milder flavour and is typically made with pork. Hot Italian sausage has a spicier flavour thanks to the addition of red pepper flakes. Choose sweet for a more gentle flavour, and hot for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

2. How long does Italian sausage last in the refrigerator?

Fresh Italian sausage will last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. Pre-cooked Italian sausage will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

3. Can you freeze Italian sausage?

Yes, you can freeze Italian sausage. Fresh Italian sausage can be frozen for up to 2 months. Pre-cooked Italian sausage can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freezing is a great way to preserve Italian sausage and have it on hand for when you need it.

4. How do you cook Italian sausage?

Italian sausage can be cooked in a skillet, on the grill, or in the oven. To cook Italian sausage in a skillet, brown it over medium heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. To grill Italian sausage, preheat your grill to medium heat and grill for about 10-15 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through. To bake Italian sausage, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with Italian sausage?

Some good side dishes to serve with Italian sausage include mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta salad, and coleslaw. Get creative with your sides to complement the flavour of the sausage.