When it comes to dinner ideas, turkey sausage is a staple that never goes out of style. With its rich flavor and versatility, it’s easy to get creative with this tasty protein. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and indulgent or light and healthy, turkey sausage has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of turkey sausage. From hearty casseroles and skillet dinners to flavorful soups and pasta dishes, we’ve got a recipe for every occasion. So, let’s get cooking and discover just how deliciously easy it is to make a memorable meal with turkey sausage!
Stay tuned for our roundup of the most scrumptious and satisfying turkey sausage recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.
Garlic Butter Turkey Sausage and Veggie Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch. This recipe combines juicy turkey sausage, tender veggies, and aromatic garlic butter for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), diced
– 2 medium zucchinis, diced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add the onion, bell peppers, and zucchinis to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Creamy Turkey Sausage Pasta with Spinach
Transform a weeknight dinner into a satisfying meal with this flavorful and nutritious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or bowtie)
– 1 turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add garlic and spinach to the skillet; cook until wilted.
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; toss until coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Turkey Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty breakfast dish combines the spicy kick of turkey sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, perfect for a weekend brunch or quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, cook turkey sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil, onion, and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with turkey sausage mixture.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Kale Stuffed Peppers
Savory bell peppers filled with a flavorful mix of turkey sausage, kale, and cheese make for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), any seeds removed
– 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the turkey sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey sausage-kale mixture, followed by shredded cheese.
5. Top with breadcrumbs and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place peppers in a baking dish and spray or drizzle with oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Turkey Sausage with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish that combines the savory goodness of turkey sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the trimmed Brussels sprouts to the skillet; toss with the sausage and onions.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes or until the Brussels sprouts are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Sausage and White Bean Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors, combining the savory taste of turkey sausage with creamy white beans and aromatic vegetables. A warm and satisfying meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the turkey sausage over medium-high heat 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 cooked white beans, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Turkey Sausage and Rice Casserole
A comforting and satisfying casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This dish combines the savory flavors of turkey sausage, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook turkey sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
6. Layer cooked rice, turkey sausage mixture, and shredded cheese in the prepared dish.
7. Pour creamy sauce over the top layer of cheese.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto dish combines the flavors of juicy turkey sausage and earthy mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. This recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms; cook until tender, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly, until the liquid is absorbed.
6. If using wine, add it to the rice mixture and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes.
Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Alfredo
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and satisfying dish that combines the flavors of turkey sausage, broccoli, and a velvety Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, linguine)
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Combine cooked pasta, turkey sausage, and Alfredo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Turkey Sausage with Apples and Onions
A sweet and savory twist on traditional sausage, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey sausage, caramelized onions, and tender apples.
Ingredients:
– 4 turkey sausages (sweet or hot Italian-style)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the turkey sausages on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each sausage.
4. In a large skillet, cook the sliced onions over medium heat until caramelized and golden brown (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Add the sliced apples to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften.
6. Place the cooked onion and apple mixture on top of the turkey sausages.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausages are browned and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
This recipe combines the flavors of roasted turkey sausage, nutty quinoa, and sweet acorn squash for a hearty and nutritious meal. Perfect for a cozy fall evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized acorn squash
– 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook the turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add the cooked quinoa, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each squash half with the quinoa mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of savory turkey sausage, tender lentils, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Savor the flavors of Italy with this quick and easy recipe, combining juicy turkey sausage with zucchini noodles and a rich pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Using the same pan, add the olive oil and spiralized zucchinis (or use a vegetable peeler to create noodles). Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly tender.
4. Stir in the pesto and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the cooked turkey sausage to the pan and toss with the zucchini noodles and pesto sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Cornbread Stuffing Bake
A savory twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the flavors of turkey sausage, cornbread, and herbs for a delicious side dish perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cornbread, crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, cornbread, sage, thyme, and melted butter.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and mix until the bread is evenly moistened.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Black Bean Enchiladas
A flavorful twist on traditional enchiladas, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey sausage with the comforting warmth of black beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can enchilada sauce
– 6-8 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook turkey sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion, garlic, black beans, and red bell pepper to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side. This will make them more pliable for rolling.
5. Assemble enchiladas by spreading a spoonful of sausage mixture onto a tortilla, then rolling and placing seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Pour enchilada sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Butternut Squash Pasta
This autumn-inspired pasta dish combines the savory flavors of turkey sausage with the natural sweetness of butternut squash, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium butternut squashes, peeled and cubed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add cubed squash, garlic, and chicken broth to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until squash is tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage-squash mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the savory taste of turkey sausage with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame seeds, and chopped green onions for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the cabbage to the pan and cook until slightly softened, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Return the turkey sausage to the pan and stir to combine with the cabbage.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Tomato Basil Gnocchi
This recipe combines the flavors of juicy turkey sausage with the comforting warmth of tomato basil gnocchi, making for a satisfying and savory meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this hearty dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups tomato basil gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or make homemade gnocchi using your favorite recipe.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add turkey sausage and cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cherry tomatoes and cooked gnocchi. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Eggplant Parmesan
A flavorful twist on traditional eggplant parmesan, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey sausage with tender eggplant and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 4 Turkey sausages (such as Italian-style or Chorizo)
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Olive oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the turkey sausages over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, fry the eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Assemble the parmesan by placing a fried eggplant slice on a baking sheet, topping with a cooked turkey sausage, and sprinkling with mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat the layers two more times, finishing with mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Chickpea Curry
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional curry, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey sausage with the creamy texture of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the turkey sausage until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add onions and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chickpeas, coconut milk, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Return the cooked turkey sausage to the skillet; simmer until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 20 flavorful turkey sausage recipes! From hearty skillets and casseroles to creamy pasta dishes and savory soups, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Turkey Sausage and Veggie Skillet, Creamy Turkey Sausage Pasta with Spinach, or Spicy Turkey Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash. Or go international with Turkey Sausage and Chickpea Curry or Turkey Sausage and Black Bean Enchiladas. Whatever your taste buds crave, these turkey sausage recipes are sure to satisfy.
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.
