When it comes to savory sausage, there’s no shortage of delicious ways to cook with it. From classic breakfast dishes to hearty one-pot meals and even sweet twists, this versatile ingredient has got you covered for every occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dish for your next gathering, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering sausage recipes that are sure to satisfy. From the spicy kick of Italian sausage and peppers to the comforting warmth of grilled sausage with caramelized onions, these dishes showcase the best of what sausage has to offer.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of savory sausages, featuring everything from classic breakfast staples to creative twists and unexpected flavor combinations. Whether you’re a sausage aficionado or just looking for some new recipe ideas, there’s something here for everyone.
Classic Homemade Breakfast Sausage
Start your day with a savory twist on traditional breakfast sausage. This simple recipe yields juicy, flavorful links that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon sage
– 1/4 teaspoon fennel seeds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, sage, and fennel seeds.
3. Mix well with your hands or a wooden spoon until just combined.
4. Stuff the mixture into casings or make “loose” sausage links by dividing the mixture into 6-8 portions and forming each portion into a link shape.
5. Place sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each link.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage and Peppers
A flavorful and spicy twist on a classic dish, this recipe combines sweet bell peppers with spicy Italian sausage for a mouth-watering meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
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 spoon as it cooks.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. Add sliced bell peppers to the skillet; cook for 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Transfer the sausage and pepper mixture to a baking dish; bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines flavorful sausage with earthy mushrooms and a creamy sauce, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups (250g) mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta 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. Remove from heat.
3. Add olive oil to the same skillet, then sauté mushrooms and garlic until mushrooms release their moisture and start browning.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Grilled Sausage with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the savory goodness of grilled sausage.
Ingredients:
– 4 sausages (your choice of type and size)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite toppings, such as peppers, mushrooms, or cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over low-medium heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Grill sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve sausages with caramelized onions and add your favorite toppings if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sausage and Cheddar Stuffed Jalapeños
Spice up your snack game with this addictive recipe! Sausage and cheddar stuffed jalapeños are a perfect blend of smoky, savory, and spicy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 large jalapeño peppers
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 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 (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the jalapeños and carefully remove the seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stuff each jalapeño pepper with the cooked sausage mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
5. Top each pepper with shredded cheddar cheese and sprinkle with breadcrumbs.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Sausage and Potato Bake
A hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch. This recipe is quick to prepare and cooks in one pan, making it a convenient option for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high.
3. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Remove the sausage and set aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and add the cooked sausage back into the pan.
7. Sprinkle with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
9. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Sausage and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavor of smoked sausage with the comforting warmth of lentils, making it a perfect cold-weather treat. With its easy-to-follow recipe and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying bowl in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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 onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, wilted spinach, and ricotta cheese for a hearty and satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
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 Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted; season with salt and pepper.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage and spinach mixture, placing filled shells in a baking dish.
7. Cover shells with marinara sauce and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Sausage Sliders with Coleslaw
Get ready for a flavorful twist on the classic slider! This recipe combines juicy BBQ sausage with creamy coleslaw and soft buns.
Ingredients:
• 4-6 mini sausages (such as Andouille or chorizo)
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1 head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, mix coleslaw by combining shredded cabbage, mayonnaise, cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
4. Split hamburger buns in half and toast on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble sliders by placing cooked sausage on each bun, followed by a dollop of BBQ sauce and a spoonful of coleslaw.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash
A seasonal twist on traditional stuffing, this recipe combines the warmth of sausage with the sweetness of apples and the comfort of roasted squash. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium acorn squash
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large apple, peeled and chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add onion, garlic, and apple; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each squash half with the sausage mixture.
6. Place the stuffed squash on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until squash is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Sausage and Green Beans
This classic combination of garlic butter sausage and green beans is a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious and satisfying dinner on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 garlic butter sausages (your choice of type)
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 sausages on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together butter and garlic until well combined.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the sausages.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. While the sausages are cooking, toss green beans with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Add green beans to the baking sheet with the sausages for the last 5 minutes of cooking time.
Cooking Time: 17-20 minutes
Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole
Sausage and Egg Breakfast Casserole: A hearty, satisfying breakfast or brunch option that combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 1/2 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half the bread cubes. Top with sausage, then pour in egg mixture.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese over top, followed by remaining bread cubes.
6. Drizzle melted butter over casserole and sprinkle with parsley.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set, and bread is golden brown.
Cheesy Sausage and Hash Brown Skillet
A hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a 12-inch cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they start to brown.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir in the shredded cheese and milk.
7. Reduce heat to medium-low and let the cheese melt and the potatoes finish cooking, about 2-3 minutes more.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sausage and Kale White Bean Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of smoky sausage, tender kale, and creamy white beans. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven 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 softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the kale, beans, chicken broth, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Baked Sausage and Cheese Grits
This hearty breakfast or brunch recipe combines the comforting flavors of sausage and cheese with creamy grits, all baked to perfection in one dish. A great option for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare and serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups stone-ground grits
– 4 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Gradually whisk in grits and reduce heat to low. Simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
4. In a large baking dish, combine cooked sausage, grits, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
5. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza Pasta
A twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the flavors of sausage and pepperoni with a crispy pizza crust and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 lb. Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup sliced pepperoni
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pizza sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in pepperoni and pizza sauce. Bring to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce mixture. Transfer to a baking dish.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with parsley.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Sausage Bites
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized sausage treats smothered in a sticky honey mustard glaze. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a quick indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage links
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Slice sausage links into 1-inch thick rounds.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder.
5. Place sausage rounds on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Brush the honey mustard glaze evenly over each sausage round.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Serve warm, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sausage and Cornbread Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meal with this savory sausage and cornbread stuffing recipe. Perfectly balanced between hearty bread and flavorful meat, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cubed cornbread
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, cubed cornbread, melted butter, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in chicken broth and toss until stuffing is well coated.
6. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Sausage and Sauerkraut
A hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe that combines the savory taste of sausage with the tangy zest of sauerkraut. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot sausage (such as Italian or Chorizo), sliced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, sauerkraut, onion, and garlic.
2. Sprinkle brown sugar and apple cider vinegar over the top.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Sausage and Shrimp Jambalaya
A spicy one-pot dish that combines the flavors of sausage, shrimp, and rice for a hearty meal. This Sausage and Shrimp Jambalaya recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add rice and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add broth, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), and browned sausage back to the pot. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
7. Add shrimp; stir gently to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 savory sausage recipes! From classic breakfast dishes to hearty pasta bakes, and from simple snacks to satisfying main courses, there’s something for every occasion. Try making homemade breakfast sausage, or indulge in creamy sausage and mushroom pasta. For a twist, add some caramelized onions to your grilled sausages or stuff jalapeños with sausage and cheddar. With so many options, you’ll never get bored of this tasty protein. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, these recipes will surely please.
