When it comes to adding flavor and excitement to your meals, few ingredients can match the power of sweet Italian sausage. With its rich, slightly sweet flavor and snappy texture, this versatile sausage is perfect for a wide range of dishes, from hearty stews and soups to elegant pasta dishes and savory pizzas.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, our collection of 20 delicious sweet Italian sausage recipes has got you covered. From classic pairings like sausage and peppers to innovative combinations like sausage and sun-dried tomatoes, we’ve got the inspiration you need to take your cooking to the next level.
In this article, we’ll be sharing some of our favorite sweet Italian sausage recipes, each one packed with flavor and sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are perfect for anyone looking to add a little excitement to their mealtime routine.
Sweet Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines sweet Italian sausage with tender peppers and a hint of spice, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, crushed tomatoes, and oregano; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sausage mixture; serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Sweet Italian Sausage with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and savory dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the smokiness of grilled sweet Italian sausage.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, depending on preference)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over low heat with butter and olive oil until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Meanwhile, grill Italian sausages for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Serve sausages on a bun or platter with caramelized onions spooned over the top.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (depending on sausage size)
Sweet Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto dish combines the savory flavors of sweet Italian sausage with the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy Arborio rice base. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup Arborio rice
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. When the rice is cooked and creamy, stir in the Parmesan cheese and cooked sausage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchinis, this recipe combines sweet Italian sausage with the freshness of zucchini. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the sausage mixture and top with shredded mozzarella cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
This hearty soup combines the rich flavors of sweet Italian sausage with creamy cannellini beans, onions, garlic, and tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, beans, onion, garlic, and tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
3. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage Pizza with Fresh Basil
A flavorful and aromatic pizza recipe that combines the sweetness of Italian sausage with the brightness of fresh basil. This perfect combination is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pizza dough
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
4. Spread cooked sausage mixture evenly over dough, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of sausage.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and sprinkle with fresh basil.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Sweet Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
This creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage, wilted spinach, and ricotta cheese, all wrapped up in tender jumbo shells. A perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg; mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage-spinach filling, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
7. Pour marinara sauce over stuffed shells and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Potato Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that combines sweet Italian sausage with tender potatoes and a hint of brown sugar. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the potatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the brown sugar, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the potato mixture.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage with Roasted Garlic and Broccoli
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe, featuring sweet Italian sausage, roasted garlic, and tender broccoli. This hearty dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 heads of broccoli, trimmed
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite pasta or rice dish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss broccoli with 1/2 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 12-15 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, slice the top off each garlic head, drizzle with remaining olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast alongside broccoli for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. Grill or cook Italian sausages according to package instructions.
5. Serve sausages with roasted broccoli and garlic, accompanied by your favorite pasta or rice dish (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and crunchy bell peppers for a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 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 in a baking dish.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture, filling to the top.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Kale Minestrone
A hearty and flavorful minestrone soup that combines the sweetness of Italian sausage with the earthiness of kale, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chopped kale, stems removed
– 1 small red bell pepper, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook sausage until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add broth, diced tomatoes, kale, and red bell pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until kale is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage with the savory taste of sun-dried tomatoes, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or linguine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sausage sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Bake
A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a chilly fall evening, this Sweet Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Bake combines the savory taste of sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash.
Ingredients:
– 4 Sweet Italian sausages
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss squash cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread squash mixture on a baking sheet and roast for 30 minutes.
4. Cook sausages in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
6. In a large casserole dish, combine roasted squash, cooked sausage, chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Calzones
These sweet and savory calzones are a twist on the classic Italian dish, featuring sweet Italian sausage and melted mozzarella cheese inside a crispy crust. Perfect for a quick dinner or lunch, these calzones are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook the Italian sausage in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Roll out the pizza dough to desired thickness.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of cooked sausage and 1/4 cup of mozzarella cheese onto one half of the dough.
5. Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the savory flavor of sweet Italian sausage with the comforting warmth of lentils, making it a perfect cold-weather meal. With its rich flavors and tender texture, this dish is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Fennel Flatbread
Elevate your pizza night with this flavorful flatbread featuring sweet Italian sausage, crispy fennel, and a hint of anise. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb store-bought or homemade flatbread dough
– 4-6 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large fennel bulbs, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out flatbread dough to desired thickness.
3. Cook Italian sausages in a skillet over medium-high heat, about 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toss fennel slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until caramelized and crispy.
5. Assemble flatbread by spreading a layer of tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought), followed by sliced sausages, roasted fennel, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Artichoke Dip
This creamy dip combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage, artichoke hearts, and Parmesan cheese for a deliciously addictive snack. Perfect for game day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 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 a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, and lemon juice. Mix until smooth.
4. Add cooked sausage to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Stir in chopped artichoke hearts.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly. Serve with crackers, chips, or pita bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Gnocchi in Cream Sauce
Sweet Italian Sausage and Gnocchi in Cream Sauce Recipe
A classic Italian comfort food dish that combines the flavors of sweet sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the heavy cream, whisking continuously to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Stir in the cooked sausage, basil, salt, and pepper.
8. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Toss with the sausage and cream sauce.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A classic combination of sweet and savory flavors, this stir-fry is a quick and easy weeknight dinner option. Pan-seared Italian sausage pairs perfectly with tender cabbage and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Sweet Italian Sausage, sliced
– 2 cups chopped cabbage (green or red)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5 minutes, until browned.
3. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the chopped cabbage, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir-fry everything together for 1 minute.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage, cornbread, and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1 cup milk
– 2 eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix, milk, eggs, and cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Add cooked sausage to the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with cornbread mixture and sprinkle with parsley.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 20 flavorful sweet Italian sausage recipes! From classic pasta dishes like Sweet Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta, to hearty soups like Sweet Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup, there’s something for every occasion. Try grilling it with caramelized onions or stuffing zucchini boats with sautéed mushrooms. You’ll also find sweet sausage paired with fresh basil on pizza, or in creamy risotto with roasted garlic. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a quick weeknight meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
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