Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! With these 20 delicious and easy-to-make Italian sausage crock pot recipes, you’ll never have to sacrifice flavor or convenience again. From hearty stews and soups to creamy casseroles and pasta dishes, there’s something on this list for everyone.
One of the best things about using a crock pot is that it allows you to throw all your ingredients in one place and let the slow cooker do the work while you’re busy with your day. And the result? A mouthwatering meal that’s ready when you are, without a lot of fuss or cleanup. Plus, many of these recipes can be easily customized to suit your tastes and dietary needs.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through Italy, exploring the rich flavors and aromas of the country’s beloved sausage. From classic combinations like peppers and onions to unexpected pairings like kale and mushrooms, there’s something for every palate and preference. So grab your crock pot and get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 flavorful Italian sausage recipes!
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Experience the perfect blend of savory sausage and sweet peppers with this easy-to-make slow cooker recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, bell peppers, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir the mixture and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Italian Sausage Pasta
This recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, pasta, and marinara sauce for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a busy day. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious dinner ready to go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup pasta of your choice
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Place the Italian sausage, sliced onion, and minced garlic in the Crock Pot.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the pasta according to package instructions.
5. Serve the sausage mixture over the cooked pasta, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Italian Sausage and Potato Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that’s perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the comforting warmth of potatoes. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Soup
Warm up with this hearty and flavorful slow cooker soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe is a twist on traditional Italian sausage soup, with the added bonus of being easy to prepare in your slow cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 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. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
2. Place the Italian sausage on top of the vegetables.
3. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Italian Sausage and Tortellini
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal that combines the richness of creamy sauce with the savory taste of Italian sausage and cheese-filled tortellini. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini (12 oz)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add tortellini to the skillet; toss to combine with sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tortellini is heated through.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage and Kale Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines spicy Italian sausage with nutritious kale, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Red pepper flakes, for added heat (optional)
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 and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the kale, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pot and add red pepper flakes if desired.
6. Bring the stew to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the kale is tender.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and White Beans
A hearty and flavorful meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this slow cooker recipe combines sweet Italian sausage with creamy white beans and aromatics. Serve over crusty bread or with some crusty garlic bread on the side.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 1 can (15 oz) Great Northern white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the white beans, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines sweet Italian sausage with earthy mushrooms, perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook sausage, breaking apart with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
6. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup to rice mixture and stir until absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2 cup increments, until rice is cooked, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Serve with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Crock Pot Italian Sausage Lasagna
Elevate your lasagna game with this easy and delicious Crock Pot recipe that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a busy day or special occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 6-8 lasagna noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes; bring to a simmer.
4. In the Crock Pot, layer the cooked lasagna noodles, Italian sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese (repeat 2-3 times).
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and cover the Crock Pot.
6. Cook on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours.
Cook Time: 4-5 hours (Low) or 2-3 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This slow cooker recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, garlic, lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of Italy with a classic comfort food dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Tender sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice come together in a deliciously simple recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned.
3. Add cooked rice, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
4. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is golden brown and heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Gnocchi
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting slow cooker recipe, perfect for a cozy night in. This dish combines tender gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, and aromatic vegetables for a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage links
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gnocchi
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the sausage.
3. Add the gnocchi, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and olive oil to the slow cooker.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Italian Sausage and Tomato Sauce
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty recipe that combines juicy herbed sausage, tangy tomato sauce, and savory herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add olive oil, onion, and garlic; sauté until softened.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
6. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Serve sausage with tomato sauce and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crock Pot Italian Sausage and Spinach Soup
Warm up with this comforting Crock Pot Italian Sausage and Spinach Soup recipe! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a deliciously flavorful soup ready to go in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 bag (10 oz) fresh spinach leaves
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Place the Italian sausage, onion, and garlic in the Crock Pot.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Pour over the sausage mixture in the Crock Pot.
3. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Zucchini Stew
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty, comforting stew that combines sweet Italian sausage, tender zucchini, and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, zucchini, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano to a 6-quart slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in chopped parsley, if desired.
5. Serve hot over crusty bread or with pasta.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (LOW) or 3-4 hours (HIGH)
Italian Sausage and Three-Cheese Dip
Elevate your game-day gatherings with this creamy, savory dip featuring Italian sausage and a blend of three cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled Parmesan cheese
– 1 (16 ounce) container cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread cream cheese mixture (softened) evenly. Top with cooked Italian sausage.
5. Sprinkle three-cheese blend over the top of the dip.
6. Drizzle with heavy cream and sprinkle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve warm with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Barley Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Barley Soup! This comforting recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of slow cooking.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker. Add chicken broth, pearl barley, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Crock Pot Italian Sausage and Cabbage
Elevate your mealtime with this comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. This Crock Pot recipe combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the sweetness of caramelized cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced Italian sausage, chopped cabbage, onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the Crock Pot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add the chicken broth.
4. Stir well and serve hot over cooked pasta or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Chickpea Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a slow cooker. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add sliced Italian sausage, chickpeas, onion, garlic, red bell pepper, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano to the slow cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Italian Sausage and Orzo Casserole
Savor the flavors of Italy with this comforting casserole, featuring sweet Italian sausage, creamy orzo pasta, and a hint of tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo 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 crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, create a layer of cooked orzo. Top with sausage mixture, then repeat layers one more time.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering Italian sausage crock pot recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From classic comfort foods to creative twists, these easy and flavorful dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Try Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers, Crock Pot Italian Sausage Pasta, or Creamy Italian Sausage and Tortellini for a delicious meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re in the mood for hearty stews, savory soups, or creamy casserole, these recipes have got you covered. Get ready to slow cook your way to a tasty dinner!