As the temperatures rise and summer officially arrives, our minds turn to the perfect outdoor gatherings with friends and family. And what’s a summer cookout without some delicious and savory summer sausage? Whether you’re grilling up skewers for a backyard bash or hosting a casual dinner party, these 18 flavorful summer sausage recipes are sure to be a hit.
From classic combinations like grilled summer sausage and vegetable skewers, to more adventurous pairings like summer sausage and kale pasta bake, there’s something on this list for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy stir-fry, these summer sausage recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Grilled Summer Sausage and Vegetable Skewers
Enjoy the flavors of summer with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines juicy sausage with colorful vegetables, all grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 summer sausage links (such as Italian-style or Chorizo)
– 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 zucchinis, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Olive oil and salt for brushing
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread vegetables and sausage onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
3. Brush with olive oil and season with salt.
4. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until sausage is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summer Sausage and Cheddar Stuffed Peppers
These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of juicy sausage, creamy cheddar cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs, making them the perfect summer side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 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. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the breadcrumbs and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Top with shredded cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Summer Sausage and Potato Hash
This hearty breakfast or brunch dish combines the savory flavor of summer sausage with the crispy texture of potatoes, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and filling hash that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound summer sausage, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. Meanwhile, cook sliced summer sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned and crispy.
5. To assemble the hash, place roasted potatoes on a plate, top with cooked summer sausage, and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summer Sausage and Kale Pasta Bake
Summer Sausage and Kale Pasta Bake: A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced summer sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summer Sausage and Corn Chowder
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer soup that combines the flavors of juicy sausage, sweet corn, and creamy potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage (such as knockwurst or Italian-style), sliced
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large ear of corn, husked and silked, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, corn, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Sausage and Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe combines the savory flavors of summer sausage with the rich, velvety texture of eggplant parmesan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound summer sausage, sliced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each eggplant round into the beaten egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry coated eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Meanwhile, cook summer sausage according to package instructions.
6. In a large skillet, combine fried eggplant slices and cooked summer sausage. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summer Sausage and Zucchini Fritters
A delicious twist on traditional fritters, these bite-sized morsels combine the savory flavor of summer sausage with the sweetness of zucchini. Perfect for a quick appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium zucchini, grated
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup crumbled summer sausage (such as pepperoni or chorizo)
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine grated zucchini, flour, panko breadcrumbs, and crumbled summer sausage.
2. In a separate bowl, beat the egg lightly. Add the olive oil and mix well.
3. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Using a tablespoon, drop small amounts of the batter into the oil, flattening slightly with a spatula.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and drain on paper towels. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on heat and batch size.
Summer Sausage and Quinoa Stuffed Tomatoes
A refreshing twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the flavors of summer sausage, quinoa, and fresh herbs to create a light and satisfying dish perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 pound summer sausage (such as Italian-style or Chorizo), sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out some of the insides to make room for the filling.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, sliced summer sausage, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Stuff each tomato with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Sausage and Spinach Lasagna
Summer Sausage and Spinach Lasagna: A Twist on a Classic!
This unique lasagna combines the flavors of summer sausage with the freshness of spinach, creating a deliciously savory dish perfect for any season.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lasagna noodles
– 1 cup cooked summer sausage, crumbled
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing the baking dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add summer sausage and cook until browned, breaking apart with spoon as needed.
4. Add fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
6. Begin building the lasagna by spreading half the mozzarella cheese followed by half the cooked summer sausage mixture, then half the cooked spinach mixture. Repeat layers.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese and beaten egg. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes.
Summer Sausage and Sweet Potato Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for warm weather gatherings or cozy nights in. This sweet and savory dish combines the flavors of summer sausage, sweet potatoes, and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, onion, and summer sausage. Toss until well combined.
3. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the sweet potato mixture in the bottom.
4. Sprinkle with half of the cheese and breadcrumbs.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of sweet potatoes on top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summer Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines the flavors of juicy summer sausage with sautéed mushrooms, creamy Arborio rice, and a hint of parmesan cheese. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a warm evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. When rice is cooked, stir in parmesan cheese and cooked sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summer Sausage and Black Bean Tacos
Summer Sausage and Black Bean Tacos Recipe
Perfect for a warm summer evening, these tacos combine the flavors of grilled sausage, black beans, and fresh toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet summer sausage, sliced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill sausage for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
2. In a large skillet, combine black beans, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by placing grilled sausage and black beans onto warmed tortillas. Top with cilantro, lime juice, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage and Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the savory taste of summer sausage with the comfort of warm rice, making it a perfect side dish or main course for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound summer sausage, sliced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the sliced summer sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the water to the skillet and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summer Sausage and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the savory taste of summer sausage with the crunch of broccoli, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced summer sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, broccoli, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked summer sausage back into the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage and Avocado Salad
Summer Sausage and Avocado Salad Recipe
Enjoy the flavors of summer with this refreshing salad featuring grilled sausage, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. summer sausage (such as chicken or turkey)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. fresh lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill summer sausage for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, combine diced avocado, sliced bell pepper, and thinly sliced onion in a large bowl.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lime juice.
5. Slice grilled sausage into thin strips and add to the bowl with veggies.
6. Drizzle dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage and Garlic Bread Pizza
Summer Sausage and Garlic Bread Pizza Recipe
Enjoy the flavors of summer with this unique pizza recipe that combines the savory taste of summer sausage with the richness of garlic bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz summer sausage, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread a layer of olive oil on the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Arrange sliced summer sausage on top of the dough, followed by minced garlic and mozzarella cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage and Bell Pepper Stir-Fry
A flavorful and easy-to-make stir-fry that combines the savory taste of summer sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced summer sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return the cooked summer sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the bell peppers.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Sausage and Lentil Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew perfect for a warm summer evening, combining the smoky flavor of summer sausage with the comforting warmth of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb summer sausage, sliced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the sliced summer sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and easy summer dinner ideas? Look no further! This article features 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the flavor and versatility of summer sausage. From classic combinations like grilled skewers with vegetables to innovative dishes like quinoa-stuffed tomatoes and lentil stew, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a busy parent or a foodie looking for inspiration, these recipes are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, get grilling, and enjoy the perfect summer sausage dinner!
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.
