Sweet Italian sausage – the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re looking for a hearty pasta dish, a comforting soup, or a flavorful pizza topping, this delicious sausage has got you covered. With its rich, sweet flavor and savory aroma, it’s no wonder why sweet Italian sausage is a staple in many kitchens.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the versatility of sweet Italian sausage. From classic combinations to creative twists, these dishes are sure to delight your taste buds and leave you wanting more. So grab a plate, put on your apron, and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious eats!
Sweet Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta
This classic pasta dish combines the rich flavors of sweet Italian sausage with caramelized peppers and a hint of garlic, all wrapped up in a creamy tomato sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add peppers and garlic to the skillet; cook, stirring occasionally, until peppers are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and basil. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Sweet Italian Sausage Risotto
Rich and creamy risotto infused with sweet Italian sausage and a hint of caramelized onions, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until caramelized.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. Stir in the cooked sausage, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Sweet Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe
Elevate your dinner game with this indulgent and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of sweet Italian sausage with the earthy goodness of sautéed mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Drizzle the tops of the stuffed mushrooms with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
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, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the beans, broth, tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Experience the perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors on this delightful pizza, featuring juicy sweet Italian sausage and caramelized onions atop a crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out pizza dough and place on a baking sheet.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes or until caramelized.
3. Cook Italian sausages in the same skillet, breaking apart with a spoon as they cook.
4. Spread cooked sausage mixture evenly over the pizza crust.
5. Top with caramelized onions, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Sweet Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
This recipe combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage, wilted spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese with the classic comfort food of stuffed shells. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Olive oil for greasing
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 apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
6. Combine cooked sausage mixture with ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage-spinach filling.
8. Place shells seam-side down on a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are golden brown and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Italian Sausage with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of sweet sausage, garlic mashed potatoes, and a hint of savory spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Sweet Italian Sausage
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Chicken broth
– 2 tbsp Unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the Sweet Italian Sausage according to package instructions or grill until browned.
3. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, garlic, chicken broth, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Serve the sausage on top of the garlic mashed potatoes.
Cooking Time:
– Sausage: 15-20 minutes
– Potatoes: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Kale Minestrone
This hearty minestrone soup is a twist on the classic Italian recipe, featuring sweet Italian sausage and curly kale for added depth of flavor. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 bunch curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook 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 oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add broth, tomatoes, and kale; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes.
4. Add pasta and cook an additional 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Zucchini
Transform ordinary zucchini into a flavorful and satisfying main course with this sweet Italian sausage and ricotta stuffed recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 lb Sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Slice zucchinis in half lengthwise and hollow out centers, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Drain excess fat, then stir in ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each zucchini shell with the sausage-ricotta mixture, dividing evenly among the four shells.
6. Place stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Italy with this simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Sweet Italian sausage is paired with a rich and smoky roasted red pepper sauce, making for a mouthwatering combination that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Place sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Roast sausages in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, roast red peppers by placing them on a separate baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic. Roast at the same temperature for 30-40 minutes, or until skin is blistered and charred.
5. Remove sausages from oven and let cool slightly. Slice into thick rounds.
6. Peel off red pepper skin, then chop into small pieces.
7. Combine roasted peppers, chicken broth, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth.
8. Serve sausage with roasted red pepper sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Potato Hash
This hearty breakfast or brunch dish combines crispy potatoes with sweet Italian sausage and a hint of garlic, perfect for a satisfying morning meal. With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is quick to prepare and delicious to devour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread potatoes on a baking sheet in an even layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, cook Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
5. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Combine roasted potatoes and cooked Italian sausage. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Stuffed Bread
Sweet Italian Sausage and Mozzarella Stuffed Bread Recipe
A twist on the classic stuffed bread recipe, this Sweet Italian Sausage and Mozzarella version combines the savory flavors of sausage and cheese with a hint of sweetness. Perfect for a game-day snack or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can of pizza dough
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to about 12-inch diameter.
3. Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Spread the cooked sausage evenly over the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and parsley over the sausage.
6. Fold the edges of the dough up and over the filling to form a stuffed bread shape.
7. Brush the top with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage with Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
Sweet Italian Sausage with Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: A flavorful combination of savory sausage and caramelized Brussels sprouts, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and minced garlic.
3. Roast in the oven for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
4. Meanwhile, cook the Italian sausages according to package instructions (about 5-7 minutes per side).
5. In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon of water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for about 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve the cooked sausage with the glazed Brussels sprouts and spoon some of the glaze on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Tomato Basil Gnocchi
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of homemade gnocchi. Sweet Italian sausage adds a boost of flavor to this classic tomato sauce, while fresh basil adds a bright and herbaceous note.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 2 cups tomato puree
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs, lightly beaten
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the tomato puree, basil, olive oil, onion, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the gnocchi: Combine flour, eggs, and water to form a dough. Knead for 2-3 minutes.
5. Cook the gnocchi in boiling, salted water for 3-5 minutes or until they float. Drain.
6. Serve the sausage and tomato sauce over the gnocchi.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Bake
This hearty fall-inspired dish combines sweet Italian sausage with roasted butternut squash, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium-sized butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the squash, chicken broth, and sage to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with the cooked sausage.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage and Cabbage Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines the flavors of sweet Italian sausage with tender cabbage and a hint of caraway seeds, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and just one pan to clean, this recipe is a weeknight winner!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the cabbage, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
6. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
7. Return the sausage to the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Sweet Italian Sausage with Creamy Polenta
Experience the perfect harmony of sweet and savory flavors in this comforting dish, where tender Italian sausage is paired with creamy polenta. This hearty recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, your choice)
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, browning on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Transfer the sausages to a baking sheet and bake for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. In a medium saucepan, combine polenta, chicken broth, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 20-25 minutes or until creamy.
5. Season the polenta with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve the cooked Italian sausage atop the creamy polenta.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-50 minutes from start to finish.
Sweet Italian Sausage and Artichoke Flatbread
A flavorful twist on traditional flatbreads, this recipe combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the sweetness of caramelized onions and artichokes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium artichokes, trimmed and quartered
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package flatbread dough (homemade or store-bought)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. Add artichoke quarters and garlic; cook for an additional 5 minutes or until tender.
5. Roll out flatbread dough to desired thickness. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Top flatbread with cooked sausage mixture, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
9. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to taste the authentic flavors of Italy with these 18 mouth-watering sweet Italian sausage recipes! From classic pasta dishes like Sweet Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta, to savory risottos and soups, there’s something for everyone. Stuff sausages into mushrooms or zucchini for a hearty main course, or top them on pizzas and flatbreads for a satisfying snack. With sweet and caramelized onions, roasted red peppers, and creamy polenta, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Treat yourself to a taste of Italy with these flavorful sausage dishes!
