Are you looking for a protein-packed dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavor? Look no further! Sausages are a great addition to any meal, and when combined with a variety of ingredients, can result in some truly delicious dishes. From classic comfort foods to international-inspired flavors, we’ve got 20 savory sausage recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a wide range of sausage-based meals that are perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you prefer classic pork sausages or more adventurous options like chicken or beef, there’s something on this list for everyone.
From hearty skillets and casseroles to quick stir-fries and soups, these recipes showcase the versatility of sausage as an ingredient. And with ingredients like potatoes, spinach, and broccoli adding natural sweetness and depth to each dish, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Garlic Butter Sausage and Potatoes Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines juicy sausage, crispy potatoes, and savory garlic butter for a satisfying and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
- Add the potatoes to the skillet and continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and lightly browned.
- Melt the butter in a small bowl. Add the garlic and stir to combine.
- Pour the garlic butter over the sausage and potatoes in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Sausage and Spinach Pasta
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of sausage with the goodness of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. This comforting recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 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 until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in spinach, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Sausage and Veggie Bake
A hearty, one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines juicy sausage with colorful vegetables and crispy potatoes, all in one easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for an extra burst of flavor)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and potatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Sprinkle the minced garlic over the vegetables and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Rice Stuffed Peppers
Get ready to spice up your dinner game with these flavorful stuffed peppers! This recipe combines the richness of sausage, rice, and cheese with a kick of heat from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as chorizo or Italian), casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add rice, diced tomatoes, cheese, cilantro, jalapeños, salt, and pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture and place in a baking dish.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of sausage, broccoli, and cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil. Arrange sausage mixture in the dish.
6. Sprinkle cheese mixture evenly over the top.
7. Top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Sausage and Corn Chowder
Warm up with this hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of smoked sausage and sweet corn. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sliced sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic; cook until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the frozen corn kernels, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
Rich and creamy, this Sausage and Mushroom Risotto is a hearty Italian-inspired dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With the savory flavors of sausage and mushrooms, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet; set aside. Add the mushrooms and onion to the skillet; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and Arborio rice to the skillet; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. If using wine, add it after 3 cups of broth have been added.
6. Cook until the rice is creamy and tender, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Stir in the cooked sausage; season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Sausage with Apples and Onions
This recipe combines the savory flavors of sausage with the natural sweetness of apples and caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a comforting baked dish. Perfect for a chilly fall evening or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 sweet Italian sausages
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Place sausages on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each sausage.
4. In a separate bowl, toss sliced onions and apples with olive oil, salt, and pepper until well coated.
5. Arrange the onion-apple mixture around the sausages in a single layer.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until sausages are cooked through and apples are caramelized.
7. Optional: Sprinkle brown sugar over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sausage and Pepper Sheet Pan Dinner
Sausage and Pepper Sheet Pan Dinner
A one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner! This recipe brings together juicy sausage, colorful bell peppers, and flavorful onions, all cooked to perfection on a single sheet pan.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. Place the sliced bell peppers and onion on one half of the sheet pan.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and olive oil. Brush this mixture evenly over the sausage.
5. Place the sausage on the other half of the sheet pan, leaving a small border around it.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices (if using).
7. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Sausage Gnocchi
This recipe combines the comfort of sausage and gnocchi with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and basil, creating a dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in canned tomatoes and chopped basil. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and add to the skillet with the tomato-basil mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sausage and Kale White Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory sausage, tender kale, and creamy white beans. A comforting and nutritious meal for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and kale to the pot; cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in beans, broth, wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Sausage Bites
Sweet and savory, these Honey Mustard Glazed Sausage Bites are the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
3. Remove sausage from casing and cut into 1-inch pieces.
4. Place sausage pieces on prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Brush the honey-mustard glaze over the sausage, making sure each piece is coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sausage and Eggplant Parmesan
This recipe combines the rich flavors of sausage and eggplant with the comfort of melted mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
4. Dip eggplant slices in beaten eggs, then coat in breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese.
5. Fry breaded eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Assemble Parmesan sandwiches by layering cooked sausage, fried eggplant, and mozzarella cheese on a baking sheet.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cajun Sausage and Shrimp Skillet
Get ready for a flavor-packed meal with this hearty Cajun sausage and shrimp skillet recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups cooked white rice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned and crispy.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and Cajun seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until pink and cooked through.
6. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the shrimp mixture.
7. Serve hot over cooked white rice (optional), if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines savory sausage with sweet and crispy sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Add remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with sausage mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Sausage and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry recipe that combines the savory taste of sausage with the crunch of green beans, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the green beans to the pan; cook until they start to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the sausage to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Sausage and Tortellini Bake
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of Italy with the heartiness of sausage, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. Creamy pesto, savory sausage, and tender tortellini come together in a satisfying, one-dish wonder.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 (9 oz) package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add chopped basil and minced garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. In a separate pot, bring tortellini to a boil; drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, tortellini, pesto, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A flavorful and hearty stir-fry that combines the savory taste of sausage with the crunch of cabbage, all cooked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 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 sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the sausage to the pan and stir in soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Lentil Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that combines the flavors of sausage, lentils, and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a nutritious lunch option.
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 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 sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and 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 for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over crusty bread or with a side of rice.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Sausage and Pineapple Kebabs
Get ready for a flavorful twist on classic sausage kebabs! This recipe combines juicy sausages with sweet pineapple chunks, all smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 sausages (your favorite type)
– 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread sausage and pineapple chunks onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. Brush sausages with BBQ sauce during the last minute of grilling.
4. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until sausages are cooked through.
5. Remove from grill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 20 savory sausage recipes! From classic combinations like garlic butter sausage and potatoes skillet, to innovative twists like cajun sausage and shrimp skillet, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy sausage and spinach pasta, one-pan sausage and veggie bake, or cheesy sausage and broccoli casserole for a comforting dinner. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, sweet, or smoky, these recipes are sure to delight your taste buds. So go ahead, get cooking, and make sausage night a regular occurrence!
