Are you looking for a flavorful and satisfying dinner option that’s quick to prepare? Look no further than Italian sausage links! With their spicy kick and rich flavor, they’re a great addition to any meal. From classic pasta dishes to hearty soups and casseroles, there are countless ways to use Italian sausage links as the star of the show.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the versatility and deliciousness of Italian sausage links. Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or something new and exciting, we’ve got you covered with our collection of spicy Italian sausage link recipes. So grab your apron, fire up your stovetop or oven, and get ready to taste the flavor!
Garlic Butter Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot wonder, this skillet combines juicy Italian sausage, tender peppers, and a rich garlic butter sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the peppers to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and pour in the chicken broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes.
Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta with Spinach
This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavors of Italy with a creamy and spinach-filled sauce, all wrapped up with sweet Italian sausage. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pappardelle pasta
– 1 lb (450g) Italian sweet sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
– 1 cup (120g) frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 tsp (5ml) dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in heavy cream and spinach; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; season with basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pan Italian Sausage and Potato Bake
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch. This recipe combines juicy Italian sausage, tender potatoes, and sweet bell peppers in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the sliced potatoes, red bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of spicy sausage and nutritious kale, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as chorizo or pepperoni), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cooked sausage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped kale and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Grilled Italian Sausage with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this mouthwatering combination of juicy Italian sausage and sweet, caramelized onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 4 hamburger buns and your favorite toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced onions and olive oil. Toss to coat.
3. Grill sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by reducing heat to low and cooking for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until dark golden brown.
5. Assemble sausages on buns with caramelized onions, butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Sausages: 10-14 minutes
– Onions: 15-20 minutes
Baked Italian Sausage with Mozzarella and Marinara
Elevate your weeknight dinner game with this easy and flavorful recipe, featuring juicy Italian sausage baked to perfection with melted mozzarella cheese and a rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place Italian sausages on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until sausages are cooked through.
6. While sausages are baking, heat marinara sauce in a separate pot over medium heat.
7. Remove sausages from the oven and top each one with a slice of mozzarella cheese.
8. Spoon warmed marinara sauce over the cheese.
9. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Sausage and White Bean Stew
Slow Cooker Sausage and White Bean Stew Recipe
This hearty slow cooker stew is a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. With tender sausage, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add the cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and thyme.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Italian Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and savory recipe featuring Italian sausage-stuffed mushrooms. Perfect for a quick snack or as an addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
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. Stuff each mushroom cap with about 1/4 cup of the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the sausage filling and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this creative take on traditional stuffed shells. The combination of savory sausage, creamy ricotta cheese, and tender pasta is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 8 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
6. Cover the shells with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Roasted Italian Sausage with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Italian Sausage with Balsamic Glaze: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of roasted sausage with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. While the sausage is cooking, combine chicken broth and balsamic vinegar in a small saucepan.
6. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
7. Serve the roasted sausage with the balsamic glaze spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory goodness of sausage with the earthy taste of broccoli rabe.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 lb. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 4 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 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 (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add broccoli rabe, garlic, and olive oil to the skillet. Cook until the greens have wilted and the garlic is fragrant (about 3-4 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sausage-broccoli mixture in a large serving bowl. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza
Spicy Sausage and Pepperoni Pizza Recipe
Get ready to fire up your taste buds with this bold and savory pizza recipe that combines the spicy kick of sausage with the classic flavor of pepperoni!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 8 slices pepperoni
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh bell peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh onions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Brown the sausage in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add olive oil, bell peppers, onions, and garlic to the pan and cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Spread the sausage mixture evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around edges.
6. Top with pepperoni slices and mozzarella cheese (if using).
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Italian Sausage and Tortellini Soup
Cozy up with this hearty and flavorful soup that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the tender goodness of cheese-filled tortellini. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup tortellini
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add tortellini; cook until heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Season with basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Sausage with Garlic Herb Butter
Grilled Sausage with Garlic Herb Butter: Elevate your outdoor gatherings with this flavorful twist on classic grilled sausage.
Ingredients:
– 4 sausages (any variety, e.g., bratwurst, Italian sausage)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, and chopped thyme until well combined.
3. Grill sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. During the last minute of grilling, spread garlic herb butter evenly onto each sausage.
5. Remove sausages from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Sun-Dried Tomato Risotto
Sausage and Sun-Dried Tomato Risotto: A flavorful and hearty Italian-inspired dish that combines sweet sun-dried tomatoes with savory sausage and creamy Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the olive oil, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
6. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding the broth in 1/2 cup increments, until the rice is cooked and creamy.
7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
One-Pot Sausage and Orzo with Feta
This hearty and flavorful one-pot dish combines the savory goodness of sausage, creamy orzo pasta, and tangy feta cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in orzo pasta and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until orzo is tender.
6. Stir in feta cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Sausage and Veggie Sheet Pan
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful sheet pan recipe, featuring balsamic glazed sausage and a colorful medley of roasted vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze (or 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar + 1 tablespoon honey)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Place the sausages on one half of the sheet pan.
4. Toss the bell peppers, zucchini, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out on the other half of the sheet pan.
5. Brush the balsamic glaze over the sausages.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Stuffed Peppers
Add some heat to your meal with this flavorful recipe that combines spicy sausage, nutritious kale, and sweet bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chopped curly kale
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove seeds, and place in a baking dish.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add kale, onion, garlic, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Cook until kale is wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage-kale mixture and top with mozzarella cheese (if using).
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Sausage and Potatoes
Garlic Parmesan Sausage and Potatoes Recipe
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines juicy sausage, crispy potatoes, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian-style sausage links
– 2 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the sausage links and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the potatoes to the pot, tossing to coat with oil and garlic. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Return the sausage links to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
8. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and sausage is cooked through.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, all wrapped up in a crispy breadcrumb topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp 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 as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cannellini beans, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your dinner routine with these 20 mouth-watering Italian sausage link recipes! From classic pasta dishes to hearty one-pot meals, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet or Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta with Spinach for a comforting twist. Or go bold with Spicy Sausage and Kale Soup or Grilled Italian Sausage with Caramelized Onions. Whatever your taste, these recipes will satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.