When it comes to adding flavor and excitement to your meals, few ingredients can rival the humble turkey sausage. With its rich, meaty taste and versatility in a wide range of dishes, this tasty treat is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. From hearty breakfast casseroles to comforting one-pot dinners, and from soups to stir-fries, we’ve gathered 20 mouthwatering turkey sausage recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore everything from classic combinations like sausage and pepper skillet dinner to creative twists like sweet potato hash and apple skillet with sage. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for quick weeknight meals or a home cook seeking inspiration for special occasions, these savory turkey sausage recipes are sure to delight.
Turkey Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey sausage and wilted spinach with creamy ricotta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells al dente; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and wilt with the sausage; season with salt and pepper.
5. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the turkey sausage and spinach mixture, then place in a baking dish.
7. Top shells with marinara sauce and additional mozzarella cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Turkey Sausage and Rice Skillet
This hearty, one-pot meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying dish on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Heat cooking spray or oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, and frozen peas and carrots.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Sausage Breakfast Casserole with Hash Browns
Start your day off right with this hearty breakfast casserole featuring turkey sausage, crispy hash browns, and melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups frozen hash browns, thawed
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 6 eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook turkey sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the hash browns in the bottom. Top with turkey sausage, then pour egg mixture over the top.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the casserole.
6. Top with remaining hash browns.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until eggs are set and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spicy Turkey Sausage and Kale Soup
This hearty soup combines the savory flavor of turkey sausage with the earthy goodness of kale, all infused with a spicy kick. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage (hot Italian style), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Stir in kale, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer until kale is tender, about 5-7 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Pepper Sheet Pan Dinner
A flavorful and easy one-pan dinner that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or weekend gathering. This recipe combines juicy turkey sausage, colorful bell peppers, and crispy potatoes for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
3. Arrange the sliced turkey sausage, bell peppers, and potatoes in a single layer on the prepared pan.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through, the peppers are tender, and the potatoes are crispy.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the savory taste of turkey sausage with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, onions, or garlic for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. Cook turkey sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet with the turkey sausage. Stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Creamy Turkey Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the flavors of savory turkey sausage, earthy mushrooms, and a rich creamy sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter, garlic, and mushrooms. Cook until mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta with sausage and mushroom mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Sausage and White Bean Chili
This recipe combines the flavors of turkey sausage, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices to create a comforting and nutritious chili perfect for a chilly evening. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the white beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Quickly cook up a delicious and healthy stir-fry with turkey sausage, broccoli, and a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the broccoli and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp.
4. Return the cooked turkey sausage to the skillet and stir in soy sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a flavorful and satisfying breakfast muffin packed with turkey sausage, scrambled eggs, and cheddar cheese. These muffins are perfect for on-the-go or as a quick breakfast solution.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
– 6 eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 12 muffin cups
– 1 package refrigerated biscuit or croissant dough (such as Pillsbury)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook turkey sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and milk. Add melted butter and stir until combined.
4. Split biscuit or croissant dough into individual cups.
5. Divide cooked turkey sausage among muffin cups, followed by scrambled eggs and shredded cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines the savory taste of turkey sausage with the crunch of fresh cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced cabbage to the pan and cook until it starts to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the cooked turkey sausage to the pan and stir in the soy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Lentil Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, combining the savory goodness of turkey sausage with the nutritious benefits of lentils. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the turkey 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 lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Zucchini Noodle Bowl
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines savory turkey sausage with zucchini noodles and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the zucchini noodles to the skillet and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Return the turkey sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the zucchini noodles and garlic.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley.
8. Serve hot, topped with crumbled feta cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes.
Turkey Sausage and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines the savory flavors of turkey sausage with the warm, buttery goodness of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. In another bowl, whisk together buttermilk, melted butter, and beaten egg.
5. Add cooked sausage, chopped onion, and garlic to the wet ingredients; stir to combine.
6. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with cornbread mixture (from dry ingredients) and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory taste of turkey sausage with the nutty goodness of quinoa.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, cook turkey sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
5. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
6. Stuff each pepper with the turkey-sausage mixture, followed by a spoonful of quinoa.
7. Place peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Apple Skillet with Sage
This hearty skillet dish combines the savory flavors of turkey sausage with the sweetness of apples, all tied together with a hint of sage. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil 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. Reduce heat to medium, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the apples, chicken broth, butter, and sage. Cook until the apples are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the apple mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional sage if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Black Bean Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this hearty recipe, featuring savory turkey sausage and creamy black beans. This twist on traditional tacos is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8 taco shells
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar), for serving
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Cook turkey sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning sausage and bean mixture into shells, followed by shredded cheese and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Butternut Squash Risotto
This hearty risotto combines the warmth of turkey sausage with the comforting sweetness of roasted butternut squash. Perfect for a cozy fall evening, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1/2 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 turkey sausages, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook Arborio rice according to package instructions using warmed chicken broth. Stir in garlic and turkey sausage slices.
3. Add white wine (if using) and stir to combine. Simmer for 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
4. Serve risotto with roasted butternut squash, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Green Bean Stir-Fry
A quick and flavorful stir-fry recipe that combines juicy turkey sausage with crisp green beans, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced turkey sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add the green beans to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until tender but still crisp.
6. Return the turkey sausage to the skillet and stir in the soy sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey Sausage and Tomato Basil Soup
This hearty soup combines the flavors of juicy turkey sausage, fresh tomatoes, and sweet basil, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With its rich and savory broth, you’ll want to curl up with a bowl on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb turkey sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the turkey sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the tomatoes, broth, and basil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these mouthwatering turkey sausage recipes! From breakfast to dinner, and even snacks and soups, this collection has something for every meal. Indulge in hearty dishes like Turkey Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash or Turkey Sausage and Quinoa Stuffed Peppers. Or try something new, like Spicy Turkey Sausage and Kale Soup or Turkey Sausage and Apple Skillet with Sage. With 20 savory recipes to choose from, you’ll never get bored with turkey sausage again!