Italian sausage dinner recipe

30 Mouthwatering Italian Sausage Dinner Recipes to Elevate Your Dinner Game

Table Of Content

Italian sausage is a versatile ingredient that can add bold flavors to a variety of dishes. Whether you prefer it mild or spicy, there are plenty of ways to use this delicious sausage for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Making these dishes at home is easier than you might think, and the results are always satisfying.

From hearty pasta dishes to stuffed peppers, these recipes are packed with flavor and simple to prepare. We’ve gathered six easy Italian sausage recipes that you can whip up in no time. Each recipe has tips and variations to help you customize the flavors to your liking. Want to make these dishes truly special? You'll need the best quality Italian sausage, and we’ve got you covered! We provide the finest Italian sausage to elevate your cooking. Ready to take your dinner game to the next level? Let’s get cooking!

Classic Italian Sausage Dishes

1. Italian Sausage Pasta

Italian sausage pasta is a classic comfort dish that combines rich sausage, garlic, and marinara sauce with your favorite pasta.

  • Recipe Details:
    • Cook your choice of pasta (penne or rigatoni work well).
    • Sauté sliced Italian sausage in olive oil until browned.
    • Add garlic, onions, and marinara sauce, then simmer until the flavors blend.
    • Toss the pasta in the sauce and top with Parmesan cheese.
  • Tips for Perfecting the Dish:
    • Use spicy Italian sausage if you want an extra kick.
    • Add a splash of red wine to the sauce for deeper flavor.

2. Sausage and Peppers

This classic combo of Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions is easy and delicious. Perfect as a main dish or a hearty sandwich filling.

  • Recipe Details:
    • Brown whole sausages in a skillet, then set aside.
    • In the same pan, sauté sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic until tender.
    • Add the sausages back in and cook everything together until heated through.
  • Variations and Serving Suggestions:
    • Serve over rice or pasta for a complete meal.
    • Add tomatoes or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a different flavor.

3. Sausage-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed peppers filled with a savory sausage and rice mixture make for a filling and colorful meal.

  • Recipe Details:
    • Cut the tops off bell peppers and remove seeds.
    • Sauté sausage with onions, garlic, cooked rice, and tomato sauce.
    • Stuff the peppers with the mixture, top with cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.
  • Serving Suggestions:
    • Pair with a simple salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.
    • Use different colored peppers for a fun presentation.

4. Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto

Creamy risotto paired with sautéed sausage and mushrooms creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for cold evenings.

  • Recipe Details:
    • Sauté sausage and sliced mushrooms in butter.
    • Add Arborio rice and cook with chicken broth, stirring constantly until creamy.
    • Finish with Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
  • Tip:
    • For extra richness, add a splash of cream just before serving.

5. Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Baked pasta shells stuffed with sausage, spinach, and ricotta cheese, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.

  • Recipe Details:
    • Cook jumbo pasta shells and set aside.
    • Mix cooked sausage with ricotta, spinach, garlic, and Parmesan.
    • Stuff shells with the mixture, place in a baking dish, cover with marinara, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
  • Serving Tip:
    • Sprinkle extra mozzarella on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.

Creative Italian Sausage Recipes

Looking for new ways to use Italian sausage? These creative recipes add a fun twist to classic ingredients:

6. Sausage and Potato Skillet

A simple one-pan meal with crispy potatoes and juicy sausage.

  • How to Make:
    • Sauté sausage slices in a skillet until browned.
    • Add diced potatoes, garlic, and onions.
    • Cook until the potatoes are golden and tender.
  • Tip: Add a handful of spinach for extra color and nutrients.

7. Italian Sausage Pizza

Homemade pizza topped with sausage, cheese, and your favorite veggies.

  • Dough Options:
    • Use store-bought dough for convenience.
    • Make your own for a fresher taste.
  • How to Make:
    • Top your dough with marinara, sausage, and cheese.
    • Bake at 450°F (230°C) until the crust is golden and the cheese bubbles.

8. Sausage and Cheese Ravioli Bake

Layer ravioli, sausage, and sauce, then bake until bubbly.

  • Tip: Use spinach or mushroom ravioli for a unique flavor.

9. Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry

Sautéed sausage with cabbage, carrots, and soy sauce for a quick meal.

10. Italian Sausage and Bean Soup

A hearty soup with sausage, beans, and vegetables—perfect for a cozy night in.

Comforting Italian Sausage Casseroles

Casseroles are the perfect comfort food, combining Italian sausage with pasta, vegetables, and cheese for hearty, satisfying meals:

11. Sausage and Ziti Bake

Pasta baked with sausage, marinara, and lots of cheese.

  • Tip: Add a layer of ricotta for extra creaminess.

12. Italian Sausage and Sweet Potato Casserole

Combines sweet and savory with layers of sausage, sweet potatoes, and spices.

  • Tip: Top with a sprinkle of brown sugar for added sweetness.

13. Sausage and Eggplant Parmesan

Baked eggplant slices layered with sausage, marinara, and mozzarella cheese.

  • Tip: Use panko breadcrumbs for a crispy topping.

14. Sausage and Spinach Lasagna

Classic lasagna with sausage, spinach, ricotta, and marinara.

  • Tip: Add fresh basil for an extra burst of flavor.

15. Italian Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Perfect for brunch! Combine sausage, eggs, cheese, and bread cubes, then bake.

  • Tip: Prep it the night before and bake in the morning for a quick meal.

Healthy Italian Sausage Options

Looking for lighter ways to enjoy Italian sausage? These recipes swap out traditional sausage for leaner options like turkey sausage or add more veggies to the mix:

16. Turkey Italian Sausage Stir-Fry

A quick and easy stir-fry with lean turkey sausage, bell peppers, and onions. Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a filling meal.

17. Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

A light yet hearty soup with turkey sausage, kale, white beans, and a flavorful broth. It’s high in protein and packed with nutrients.

18. Sausage and Cauliflower Rice

Combine turkey sausage with cauliflower rice, onions, and garlic for a low-carb dish. Add your favorite herbs for more flavor.

19. Sausage and Vegetable Foil Packs

Mix turkey sausage with zucchini, peppers, and tomatoes, then wrap in foil and bake. Perfect for easy, no-mess cooking.

20. Italian Sausage and Zucchini Noodles

Spiralized zucchini noodles sautéed with sausage, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan. A tasty, low-carb pasta alternative!

Quick and Easy Italian Sausage Recipes

Short on time? These simple recipes make it easy to whip up something delicious with Italian sausage in no time:

21. Sausage and Tomato Bruschetta

Grill or sauté sausage slices and place them on toasted bread with chopped tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.

  • Serving Ideas: Great as an appetizer or snack for parties.

22. Italian Sausage and Broccoli Stir-Fry

A quick stir-fry with sausage, broccoli, and garlic in a light soy sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes!

  • Time-Saving Tip: Use pre-cut broccoli florets and cooked sausage to save prep time.

23. Sausage and Green Bean Sheet Pan Dinner

Toss sausage slices, green beans, and baby potatoes with olive oil and herbs. Roast on a sheet pan for 25-30 minutes at 400°F.

  • Cooking Tip: Spread ingredients evenly on the pan for even cooking.

24. Italian Sausage Tacos

Brown sausage and serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese.

  • Flavorful Toppings: Try avocado, pickled onions, or a squeeze of lime for extra zing.

25. Sausage and Tomato Frittata

Whisk eggs with cooked sausage, tomatoes, and cheese. Pour into a skillet and bake until set. Perfect for breakfast or brunch.

These quick and healthy recipes show how easy it is to create flavorful meals without spending too much time in the kitchen! Enjoy a variety of flavors while keeping things light and simple.

Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Recipes

Slow cookers are perfect for making hearty Italian sausage dishes with minimal effort. Just set it and let the flavors meld together throughout the day. Here are some simple recipes to try:

26. Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers

Combine sausage links, sliced bell peppers, onions, garlic, and marinara sauce. Cook on low for 6-7 hours. Serve over pasta or in sandwich rolls.

27. Sausage and Bean Chili

Mix Italian sausage, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, onions, and chili spices. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Top with shredded cheese and enjoy a bowl of comforting chili.

28. Slow Cooker Sausage and Potatoes

    Layer sausage links, baby potatoes, and carrots in the slow cooker. Add garlic, herbs, and a splash of broth. Cook until the potatoes are tender.

    29. Italian Sausage and Tomato Sauce

      Simmer sausage in tomato sauce with garlic, onions, and Italian herbs. Serve over pasta for an easy dinner option.

      30. Sausage and Sweet Corn Chowder

      Combine sausage, sweet corn, potatoes, onions, and broth. Cook until the flavors blend, then add cream for a rich, satisfying chowder.

      Conclusion

      With these Italian sausage recipes, you can create delicious meals that are easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether you prefer quick skillet dishes or slow-cooked favorites, there’s something for everyone. If you want to skip the prep, try Red Field Ranch’s selection of high-quality Italian sausages. Our sausages are made with fresh ingredients and are ready to use in any recipe.

      Ready to enjoy the best flavors in your home-cooked meals? Check out Red Field Ranch’s Italian sausage varieties today and elevate your dinners effortlessly!

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Sweet, mild, and spicy Italian sausages all work well, depending on your preference. Sweet sausage pairs well with tomato-based dishes, while spicy sausage adds heat to pasta and casseroles.

      Yes, you can use plant-based Italian sausage alternatives. These offer the same flavors without the meat and can be used in pasta dishes, soups, and casseroles.

      Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the dish seems dry.

      Good options include garlic bread, roasted vegetables, pasta salad, or a fresh green salad. Grilled zucchini, polenta, or mashed potatoes also pair well with sausage dishes.

      Yes, Italian sausage dishes freeze well. Let them cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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      Felix Florez

      Felix Florez

      FELIX FLOREZ was born in McAllen, TX into a farming and ranching family that specialized in livestock with some seasonal South Texas crop work as well. At a young age Felix developed a love for cooking and exploring the culinary arts. Florez's mother encouraged his culinary talents and even toured Texas with him, in an effort to broaden his cooking abilities (much like a young chef "back packing through europe and staging at various restaurants). From the moment he was 14 yrs old, Felix found his way into the food service industry, becoming an expo and host and eventually a waiter at Houston area restaurants. The goal of mastering all positions within a restaurant setting quickly progressed as Felix became a sommelier and soon purchased his first restaurant. This French/Belgian bistro, was purchased by Florez at the tender age of 19, Felix insisted on spending months in each and every position at this Austin, TX restaurant, while attending college, before taking it over completely from the original owners.

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