When it comes to busy weeknights, a flavorful and satisfying meal can be hard to come by. That’s why we’ve rounded up 20 delicious Italian sausage slow cooker recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. From classic combinations like sausage and peppers to hearty stews and soups, these mouthwatering dishes are perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
With minimal prep time required, you can toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker in the morning and come home to a ready-to-eat meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re a busy parent or a working professional, these recipes will become your new go-to for a delicious and stress-free dinner.
In this article, we’ll explore the top 20 Italian sausage slow cooker recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. From creamy soups to savory stews, each dish is packed with flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
This hearty recipe combines sweet bell peppers with savory Italian sausage, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, peppers, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, and oregano to a slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Creamy Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Italy with a rich and creamy broth, featuring sweet Italian sausage and tender cheese-filled tortellini. Perfect for a chilly evening or a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 12 cheese-filled tortellini
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Add the tortellini and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with White Beans and Spinach
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this hearty, flavorful recipe that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with creamy white beans and nutritious spinach.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. Italian sausage
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add Italian sausage, diced tomatoes, white beans, garlic, parsley, and oregano to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in spinach leaves during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Enjoy your delicious, comforting Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with White Beans and Spinach!
Easy Italian Sausage and Potato Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the comfort of mashed potatoes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, 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
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and salt.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange a layer of mashed potatoes, followed by a layer of Italian sausage, then a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat layers two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
This hearty, comforting recipe combines juicy Italian sausage, earthy mushrooms, and tender pasta in a rich tomato-based sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 8 oz mushrooms (button, cremini, or shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine, or rotini)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the mushrooms, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
6. Serve the sausage and sauce over the pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Hearty Italian Sausage and Lentil Stew
A comforting and flavorful stew that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the nutritious goodness of lentils, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Kale Minestrone
This comforting minestrone recipe combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, kale, and vegetables with the convenience of a slow cooker. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and discarded
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Transfer the sausage to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 3 hours.
3. Stir in the kale leaves, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and pasta shapes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-5 hours (HIGH)
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Rice Bake
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy cheese, and flavorful rice. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink.
3. Add onion, garlic, peas, and carrots to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
6. Add sausage mixture to the prepared dish, followed by rice mixture.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
This recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, garlic, and parmesan cheese in a slow-cooked masterpiece. Perfect for a comforting meal or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage links
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place Italian sausage links in the slow cooker.
2. Add sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the sausage.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, heavy cream, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture over the sausage and onion.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Remove sausage from the slow cooker and place on a serving platter. Spoon Garlic Parmesan Sauce (made by whisking together cooked liquid, parmesan cheese, and chopped parsley) over the top.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Italian Sausage and Tomato Risotto
Spicy Italian Sausage and Tomato Risotto Recipe
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup combines sweet Italian sausage with tender cabbage and aromatic vegetables, all slow-cooked to perfection in a flavorful broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cabbage, carrot, and celery to the slow cooker.
3. Add the cooked sausage, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Savory Italian Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of sweet potatoes. This dish is perfect for a weekend morning or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside.
4. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the same skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add diced sweet potatoes to the skillet; cook for 10-12 minutes or until tender.
6. Stir in cooked Italian sausage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-35 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Zucchini Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the sweetness of zucchini. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy a warm and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, zucchini, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Pour over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper on top.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Rich Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Chili
A hearty and flavorful chili that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the creaminess of cannellini beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 cup cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced green chilies
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook the Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, cannellini beans, green chilies, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili simmer for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Balsamic Glaze
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Balsamic Glaze: A Hearty and Flavorful Twist on Classic Sausage and Peppers
This recipe combines the richness of slow-cooked Italian sausage with the tanginess of a balsamic glaze, all in one convenient pot. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage links
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sausage links in the slow cooker.
2. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic on top of the sausage.
3. Pour in the chicken broth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the balsamic glaze.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Italian Sausage and Orzo Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines sweet Italian sausage with the nutty flavor of orzo, fresh herbs, and a hint of garlic. Perfect as a main course or side dish, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook orzo according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked orzo, chicken broth, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and sausage is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Stew
Cozy up with this hearty, one-pot stew that combines the flavors of Italy with the sweetness of butternut squash. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the squash, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Tangy Italian Sausage and Tomato Basil Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Italy with a tangy twist, perfect for a cozy evening meal. Rich tomato broth is elevated by the addition of sweet Italian sausage and fresh basil, making it a delicious and satisfying option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream or half-and-half, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this hearty slow cooker recipe, featuring juicy sausage and a sweet roasted red pepper sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup roasted red peppers (canned or fresh)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, Italian sausage, roasted red peppers, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in chicken broth and stir gently.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Comforting Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Stew
Cozy up with this hearty stew that combines the flavors of Italy with a rich, comforting broth. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.
4. Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
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Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
