As a child, the aroma of sausage dinners was always a highlight. The unmistakable scent of pasta and sizzling sausage would fill the air, signaling that dinner was just around the corner. It’s a comforting feeling that never fails to evoke warm memories. When you’re craving something more than the usual pasta or jambalaya dishes, there are countless ways to get creative with sausages. Whether you’ve stocked up on them during a grocery sale or simply want to mix things up, we’ve got you covered.
In this collection of 27 dinner ideas featuring sausages, you’ll discover a wealth of inspiration for meals that are both innovative and mouthwatering. From classic comfort food to bold flavor combinations, these recipes will keep your taste buds engaged and your mealtime routine fresh.
20 Minute Skillet Sausage Zucchini
If you’re tired of coming up blank when trying to whip up dairy-free or gluten-free meals for your loved ones, fear not! This skillet recipe is a game-changer, packed with flavorful herby veggies and juicy sausage slices that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. The real MVP, however, is the humble zucchini – its subtle sweetness adds a delightful depth to the dish.
If you’re catering to a finicky crowd, consider substituting it with another summer squash like butternut or roasted pumpkin (if in season) to keep things interesting and varied.
Instant Pot Sausage and Rice
This speedy sausage and rice recipe is a game-changer for busy households, as it can be whipped up in under an hour – and that’s not even counting the Instant Pot’s lightning-fast cooking time of just five minutes! The result is a satisfying dish packed with flavorful sausage, crisp veggies, and fluffy rice. A key seasoning in this recipe is smoked paprika, but feel free to swap it out for sweet or hot paprika depending on your taste preferences.
If you’re using frozen veggies, be sure to thaw them first to ensure the best results.
One Pan Sausage and Vegetable Bake with Gravy
We have a confession to make: we’re utterly obsessed with dishes smothered in rich, savory gravy. It’s hard not to be drawn to the allure of a perfectly cooked meal drenched in that golden liquid. But what really sets our hearts racing is knowing that this gravy is made from scratch – and it’s surprisingly easy to whip up. What takes this dish to new heights, though, is the addition of fresh thyme as a garnish.
This fragrant herb adds an unmistakable depth and dimension to the dish, elevating it to a whole new level. And if you don’t have access to thyme, don’t worry – rosemary or other herbs from your garden can be used as a substitute.
Cajun Shrimp Pasta Sausage
Imagine taking the rich flavors of sausage and combining them with the ocean’s bounty – it’s a match made in heaven! This recipe is all about embracing the bold and spicy taste of jambalaya, but instead of relying on rice, you’ll be using fettuccine pasta. Feel free to get creative and swap out the noodles for something like bowtie pasta if you want to add an extra layer of fun to this dish.
What’s more, you can adjust the level of heat to your liking by simply using a lighter hand when it comes to the Cajun seasoning. Just remember, less is often more when it comes to packing that punch.
Italian Sausage and Peppers
Looking for an Italian sausage recipe that’s both flavorful and quick to prepare? Look no further! This mouth-watering combination of mild or spicy Italian sausage, peppers, and a rich tomato base is the perfect filling for your favorite bun. For this recipe, we recommend using Johnsonville’s mild Italian sausage, but feel free to substitute with a similar sausage from your local butcher if you prefer. Alternatively, try it with spicy Italian sausage for an added kick.
Broccoli Sausage Cauliflower Casserole
Satisfy your cravings for a rich and satisfying casserole without compromising on low-carb diet goals with this ingenious broccoli sausage cauliflower casserole recipe. The cauliflower’s meaty texture cleverly replaces traditional carb-heavy ingredients like pasta or potatoes, providing a hearty base that will leave you feeling full and content. And let’s not forget the star of the show – the melty, cheesy topping that adds an indulgent twist to this otherwise healthy dish.
But here’s the best part: mayonnaise is the secret ingredient that takes it over the top. For a lighter alternative, swap in plain Greek yogurt for added creaminess without the calories or strong flavor. This clever substitution not only reduces calories but also provides a subtle tanginess that will keep you coming back for more.
Rigatoni with Sausage, Tomatoes, and Zucchini
Indulge in this mouthwatering pasta dish, packed with wholesome veggie goodness! The combination of sausage, veggies, and tomato white wine sauce creates a hearty meal that’s surprisingly light on the palate. Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor to the sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for the whole family. If you only have dried basil on hand, don’t worry – it can be substituted in, although reduce the amount by half to avoid overpowering the dish.
Healthy Jambalaya (Whole30, Low Carb, Paleo)
While it may seem counterintuitive to enjoy your favorite dishes while making them healthier, this recipe shows that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor for nutrition. The game-changer is swapping regular rice with a lower-calorie alternative like cauliflower rice or broccoli rice, which can be just as delicious. For those who want to indulge, you can always add back in some traditional rice and balance it out by reducing the amount of cauliflower rice.
Lasagna Soup Recipe
When it comes to deciding on the perfect dinner, it’s not uncommon to be torn between two comforting options: a hearty lasagna and a warm bowl of soup. But what if you could have both in one delicious dish? Imagine a meal that combines the best of both worlds – tender noodles swirled in a rich tomato broth, just like a classic lasagna, but with a soup-like consistency.
This versatile recipe allows you to customize it to your taste by swapping out traditional noodles for alternatives like whole wheat or protein-packed options. And let’s not forget the pièce de résistance: serve it with some crispy garlic bread for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Tomato Spinach Sausage Pasta Recipe
When a pasta craving strikes, but you’re itching to mix things up with Italian sausage, what’s the solution? Simply combine whole tomatoes, sweet and spicy seasoning, and a colorful medley of vegetables. The resulting fusion is nothing short of sublime – you’ll be hooked and wondering how you ever settled for traditional pasta dishes again! As winter rolls around, this hearty dinner gets an added boost from chili flakes, which add a satisfying warmth.
For those who like a little extra heat, feel free to substitute in some cayenne pepper or experiment with the addition of chili garlic paste for an even spicier kick.
Crockpot Chili
There’s no denying the appeal of a hearty bowl of chili, capable of soothing even the most persistent of woes – from sniffles to heartache and, of course, rumbling tummies! Our version of this comforting classic combines beans, bold peppers, Italian sausage, and an array of seasonings for a truly mouthwatering experience that’s sure to wow your dinner guests. The key to its irresistible flavor? A dash of crispy bacon, which we firmly believe elevates any dish to new heights.
And if you’re looking for a lighter yet equally satisfying option, consider substituting turkey bacon for an added layer of complexity and depth.
Sausage Green Bean Potato Casserole
While casseroles may have fallen out of favor with modern cooking trends, they still offer a hearty and satisfying meal. This particular sausage and potato casserole is a masterclass in comfort food, loaded with flavorful ingredients like sausage, potatoes, onions, and more. A generous helping of heat from Slap Ya Mama seasoning adds depth to the dish, elevating it to new heights. The unique flavor profile is nothing short of remarkable, making this casserole a true standout.
For those having trouble tracking down Slap Ya Mama, fear not – a DIY alternative can be achieved by combining salt, cayenne powder, and sweet paprika, offering a comparable kick.
Creamy Tortellini with Sausage
Indulge in this rich and satisfying pasta recipe, where a creamy white wine sauce takes center stage alongside diced tomatoes and a medley of spices. To elevate the dish to new heights, be sure to add an extra sprinkle of cheese for good measure. As an added bonus, the recipe incorporates spinach for a burst of fresh flavor and nutrients. Feel free to substitute baby kale if you prefer, as it retains its texture better when cooked.
Simply use as much or as little of the greens as suits your taste.
One Pan Dinner Sausage Potatoes and Broccoli
We’re enthusiasts of one-pan recipes that simplify meal prep and reduce cleanup hassle. This particular dish delivers on all fronts with its gooey cheese topping, smoky undertones, and harmonious medley of turkey sausage, potatoes, and broccoli. What sets it apart is the unconventional use of turkey smoked sausage – a departure from more traditional Italian sausage made from pork. That being said, feel free to swap in your preferred sausage type for an equally satisfying outcome.
Sausage Potato Foil Packets
When it comes to serving sizes, it’s easy to get stuck. But what if you could effortlessly pack leftovers for lunch without the hassle of guessing quantities? Enter individual foil packets, perfectly portioned with sausage, potatoes, and green beans. With these convenient packets, you can prep dinner in just 30 minutes mid-week, making mealtime a breeze.
And here’s the best part: the not-so-hidden ingredient is actually the green beans!
Feel free to swap them out for baby carrots, corn, or a veggie medley – you’re in complete control of this tasty dinner.
Pro tip: To ensure even cooking and avoid any raw potato chunks, be sure to cut your spuds into uniform pieces.
One Pan Tortellini with Sausage
We’re unapologetically enthusiastic about pasta recipes, and we won’t let anyone tell you otherwise! This next dish is a fantastic way to repurpose leftover sausage from our previous recipe suggestions. The result is a mouthwatering, creamy, cheesy masterpiece that’s perfect for a satisfying dinner. The twist? We’re using premade cheese tortellini as the pasta of choice. Feel free to get creative and use seasonal flavors like pumpkin tortellini if you prefer. And the best part?
This recipe pairs well with nearly any type of tortellini, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
One-Pot Cheesy Smoked Sausage Pasta Skillet
Indulge in this mouthwatering pasta dish, where smoked sausage and melted cheese come together to create a flavor explosion! The combination of tangy cheese and spicy sauce will leave you craving more. What’s more surprising is the unexpected star of the show: cheddar jack cheese. For a milder taste, swap it out for mozzarella – or choose any other shredded cheese that melts well. And if you’re looking to tone down the heat, regular diced tomatoes are the way to go.
Sheet Pan BBQ Smoked Sausage Dinner
Ditch the pasta and tomato sauce for a dinner that’s packed with big BBQ flavors and gooey cheese-covered broccoli. This sausage-based meal is so satisfying that it doesn’t even need any additional sides! The recipe relies on white potatoes to add substance and balance out the dish, but feel free to substitute in sweet potatoes if you’re using spicy BBQ sauce. Sweet potatoes can actually help temper the heat, making for a more harmonious flavor experience.
Sausage and Bean Stew
Take your stew game to the next level by serving it over mashed potatoes. This version is elevated by the addition of pork sausages, which bring a rich flavor to the dish. The combination of chopped tomatoes, spring greens, and baked beans creates a hearty and satisfying meal. But what really makes this stew stand out is the inclusion of baked beans as the secret ingredient. Not only do they add a depth of flavor, but they also help to thicken the stew and provide a delightful texture.
Feel free to substitute in your favorite type of bean, such as kidney beans, if you prefer. Just be sure to remove the stems from the spring greens so that they’re easy to eat.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta with Sausage
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this mouth-watering recipe that combines saucy sausage with seafood, pasta, and a creamy kick! The perfect blend of parmesan cheese, fettuccine, and aromatic herbs creates a dish that will leave you wanting more. Don’t be deterred by the heat – the richness of heavy cream balances out the spiciness, while chicken broth adds depth to the sauce coating the pasta, shrimp, and sausage.
For an even more authentic taste, substitute water with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor profile.
Instant Pot Italian Sausage Pasta Soup Recipe
The allure of this Italian sausage, pasta, and tomato soup is undeniable. A 15-minute recipe that’s not only quick but also packed with flavor and satisfying, making it a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal routine. When preparing this dish, don’t overlook the importance of using fresh Roma tomatoes – or similar sweeter varieties like Grape tomatoes in a pinch. Just be sure to remove the sausage from its casing before adding it to your soup for optimal results.
Sausage and Creamed Potatoes
Whisk up a quick and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes with our sausage and creamed potato recipe. The best part? You probably have all the necessary ingredients already on hand. A sprinkle of flour helps to thicken the sauce, giving it a rich and indulgent flavor that’s reminiscent of homemade cooking. If you’re looking for an alternative to flour, cornstarch is a great substitute – your family will never know the difference!
This recipe is also easily scalable to feed larger families, so everyone can enjoy a hearty serving.
Creamy Bean Soup with Sausage
Want to turn sausage into a flavorful and nutritious meal? Look no further than this creamy bean soup with sausage! What’s unique about this recipe is that it replaces traditional heavy cream with two unexpected ingredients: milk and flour. These dairy-based elements work together to create a rich, velvety texture that you can easily replicate with dairy-free alternatives like cornstarch and non-dairy milk. And the best part? No slurry needed!
Simply omitting a slurry from your recipe avoids any potential lumps or clumping issues. So go ahead, get creative in the kitchen and enjoy a healthier take on traditional sausage soup.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Potato Casserole
This indulgent casserole is not just limited to dinner – it’s equally satisfying as a breakfast or lunch option. The combination of hash browns, kielbasa, and potatoes in a rich, cheesy sauce makes for a decadent treat that can be enjoyed at any time of day. The addition of sour cream adds depth and creaminess, while also helping to thicken the sauce. For an even more luxurious twist, try substituting crème Fraiche for sour cream, taking the dish’s richness to new heights.
Sausage Pasta Skillet Recipe
When seeking out new recipes, three essential criteria come into play: speed, flavor, and an abundance of delicious ingredients. This 15-minute meal checks all these boxes, boasting a rich tomato sauce that infuses pasta, sausage, and vegetables with a depth of seasoning. To add a splash of color and a pungent punch, we recommend topping this dish off with scallions – or substituting them with chives for a milder flavor.
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
There’s something undeniably satisfying about the harmonious union of flavors in a classic sausage and pepper recipe – Italian sausage, bell peppers, and tomato sauce all coming together in perfect culinary synergy. This particular variation takes it to the next level by incorporating spaghetti sauce into the mix.
At its core, the sauce is built around a rich tomato flavor, which can be easily achieved using store-bought or homemade spaghetti sauce.
If you’re short on time or ingredients, tomato paste can serve as a viable substitute – just be sure to thin it out with some liquid and add any necessary seasoning adjustments.
One more thing to consider: serving the sausages and peppers in hot dog or brat buns adds a delightful twist. Don’t forget to top them off with some sliced onions and bell peppers for a complete, mouthwatering experience.
Instant Pot Sausage Rigatoni
When life gets overwhelming and stress takes over, there’s nothing like indulging in a hearty bowl of comfort food to soothe your soul. Instant Pot sausage rigatoni is the perfect remedy – it’s a rich and satisfying dish that will leave you feeling cozy and content. And let’s be honest, the creamy sauce made with heavy cream is the icing on the cake! Most pasta recipes call for cooking noodles in water, but why not mix things up by using chicken broth or another light broth instead?
After all, if you can elevate boiling potatoes with a flavorful swap, why not give your pasta the same treatment?
I’m Louise Cutler, a food lover who enjoys creating simple, flavorful recipes that anyone can make and share at home.
