Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Look no further! Italian sausage links are a staple ingredient that can be used in a variety of delicious and easy-to-make dishes. From hearty pasta bakes to flavorful soups and skillet meals, these spicy sausages are sure to spice up your meal routine.
In this article, we’ll share 20 mouth-watering recipes that feature Italian sausage links as the main attraction. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole, a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or a satisfying lunch, we’ve got you covered. From classic combinations like sausage and peppers to more adventurous pairings like sausage and kale, there’s something on this list for every taste bud.
In our next section, we’ll dive into the first five recipes that feature Italian sausage links in all their glory. Whether you’re looking for a new twist on an old favorite or inspiration for your next meal prep session, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
Garlic Butter Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines juicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and savory garlic butter for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for 5 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Add the Italian sausages and cook for an additional 5 minutes, browning them on all sides.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the minced garlic, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir until the butter is melted and the mixture is well combined.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and the peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta with Spinach
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a creamy sauce, featuring spicy Italian sausage and wilted spinach. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and onion to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet; toss with sauce until coated.
6. Wilt spinach into the pasta mixture by adding it in batches, allowing each portion to cook before adding more.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Italian Sausage and Potato Bake
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that combines juicy Italian sausage with tender potatoes, onions, and bell peppers, all baked to perfection in the oven.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the sliced potatoes, onion, bell peppers, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the top and stir again.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is nicely browned.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup Recipe
Warm up with this hearty and spicy soup that combines the flavors of juicy sausage and nutritious kale.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped (about 2 cups)
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot 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 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Italian Sausage with Caramelized Onions
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with this easy-to-make grilled Italian sausage recipe, paired with caramelized onions that add a depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite barbecue sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over low-medium heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Grill Italian sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush grilled sausages with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve sausages with caramelized onions and your favorite barbecue sauce (if using).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Italian Sausage with Mozzarella and Marinara
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of Italian sausage, melted mozzarella cheese, and tangy marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
• 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 8 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1 tablespoon 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. Place the Italian sausages on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
6. While the sausage cooks, heat the marinara sauce in a separate pan over medium heat.
7. Once the sausage is done, top each sausage with a slice of mozzarella cheese and spoon some warm marinara sauce over the top.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Sausage and White Bean Stew
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful slow cooker stew that combines juicy sausage, tender white beans, and aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried oregano.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and colorful dish! Italian sausage stuffed bell peppers are a hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell 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, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, earthy mushrooms, and creamy Arborio rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
7. Add 1 cup of warmed broth to the rice, stirring until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1-cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy, about 20-25 minutes.
8. Stir in the cooked sausage; season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sheet Pan Sausage with Roasted Vegetables
This recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, you’ll be delighted by the combination of juicy sausage and tender roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor
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 pan, leaving space between each link.
4. Toss vegetables 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 sausage is browned and vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy sausage and pungent broccoli rabe with the comforting warmth of pasta. The result is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, broccoli rabe, and chicken broth to the skillet. Cook until the greens are wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add reserved pasta cooking water and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sausage mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Italian Sausage Pizza
Create a mouth-watering pizza experience with the flavors of Italy by using homemade sausage and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup homemade Italian sausage, cooked and crumbled
– 1/4 cup caramelized onions
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh bell peppers
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough to a thickness of about 1/4 inch.
3. Spread the caramelized onions over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Add the crumbled Italian sausage and chopped bell peppers on top of the onions.
5. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the toppings.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the pizza to a baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Lentil Soup with Parmesan
Sausage and Lentil Soup with Parmesan: A Hearty and Flavorful Recipe
This comforting soup combines the savory flavors of sausage, lentils, and tomatoes with the richness of Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, broth, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Grilled Sausage and Zucchini Kebabs
Simplify your summer BBQs with these flavorful and easy-to-make kebabs, perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor gathering. Juicy sausage and tender zucchini come together in harmony on the grill.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced into large chunks
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite BBQ sauce for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread sausage slices, zucchini rounds, and red bell pepper chunks onto metal or bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush kebabs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until sausages are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, topped with your favorite BBQ sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Baked Ziti with Italian Sausage and Ricotta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and classic baked ziti for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz ziti pasta
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 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 ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. Brown Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Arrange cooked ziti pasta on top.
6. Add browned Italian sausage and spoon ricotta mixture evenly over the pasta.
7. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
9. Sprinkle chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Peppers Hoagie Sandwiches
Sausage and Peppers Hoagie Sandwiches
This classic Italian-inspired sandwich is a flavorful and satisfying twist on the traditional hoagie. With sweet peppers, savory sausage, and melted mozzarella cheese, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 4 hoagie rolls
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: marinara sauce for dipping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Grill or cook the sausages according to package instructions.
3. Toss the sliced peppers and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Slice the cooked sausages into thick rounds.
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a few slices of sausage on each hoagie roll, followed by roasted peppers and onions, and finishing with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy! (Optional: serve with marinara sauce for dipping.)
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
One-Pot Sausage and Orzo with Tomatoes
A hearty, flavorful meal that’s ready in under an hour! This recipe combines the savory taste of sausage with the comforting warmth of orzo and juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup orzo
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large, deep pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the cooked sausage with a slotted spoon; set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot; cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the orzo, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the orzo is tender.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pot; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Stuffed Shells
A twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, this dish combines spicy sausage and kale with creamy ricotta cheese and pasta. The perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp olive oil
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 sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add kale, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until kale is wilted.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta shells, sausage-kale mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, egg, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix well.
6. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Add the stuffed shell mixture and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty one-pot wonder, featuring juicy garlic parmesan sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gnocchi
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cherry tomatoes, gnocchi, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Toss to combine.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until sausage is cooked through and gnocchi are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Sausage and Cabbage Stew
Cozy up with a warm and comforting bowl of slow-cooked sausage and cabbage stew, perfect for a chilly evening. This easy recipe is a great way to use up leftover sausages and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup brown sugar (for a sweeter flavor)
Instructions:
1. Add sliced sausage, onion, garlic, cabbage, carrots, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste; add brown sugar if desired.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with these 20 delicious Italian sausage link recipes! From hearty pasta dishes to flavorful stews, we’ve got you covered. Try our Garlic Butter Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet for a quick and easy dinner, or go all out with our Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta with Spinach. Or if you’re in the mood for something lighter, our Grilled Italian Sausage with Caramelized Onions is a winner. And don’t even get us started on the soups – Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup and Slow Cooker Sausage and White Bean Stew are must-tries. Whatever your taste buds desire, we’ve got an Italian sausage recipe to satisfy.
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