Looking for a delicious and easy way to spice up your weeknight dinners? Look no further! Ground sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, from hearty casseroles and soups to quick skillet meals. Whether you’re a fan of spicy flavors or rich and creamy sauces, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following article, we’ll explore 20 savory ground sausage recipes that are perfect for weeknight dinners. From classic comfort food to creative twists, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of ground sausage. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these dishes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Skillet
A hearty and flavorful skillet dish that combines spicy sausage with sweet bell peppers and onions, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking oil or butter, for greasing
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove sausage from skillet; set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add bell peppers and onion; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to skillet. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes. Return sausage to skillet; stir to combine.
5. Simmer, uncovered, for an additional 2-3 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Sausage and Mushroom Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, and a rich creamy sauce. A perfect comfort food recipe for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 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 mushrooms and garlic to the skillet; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown.
4. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and thyme. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sausage-mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and colorful recipe, featuring juicy sausage and tender bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the onion, garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and oregano to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture and top with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Sausage and Potato Hash
A hearty breakfast or brunch option that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines crispy sausage, tender potatoes, and a hint of smokiness from the bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sausage (such as breakfast links or Italian-style), sliced
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with salt and pepper.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the potatoes out in an even layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spatula as it cooks.
5. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and cook until vegetables are softened.
6. Combine cooked potatoes, sausage mixture, and any remaining juices on the baking sheet. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole
Start your day with a hearty and satisfying breakfast casserole that combines savory sausage, melted cheese, and fluffy eggs. This Cheesy Sausage Breakfast Casserole is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet or hot sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the sausage mixture in the bottom.
6. Pour half of the egg mixture over the sausage, followed by half of the shredded cheese.
7. Repeat layers.
8. Dot top with butter and cover with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until eggs are set.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Sausage and Kale Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the savory flavor of sausage with the nutritional benefits of kale. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups kale leaves (stems removed and discarded)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Pour in the broth and add the thyme.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in the kale and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Homemade Sausage Pizza
Start your day off right with a hearty and flavorful homemade sausage pizza that’s easy to make and packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup tomato sauce
– 4 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread tomato sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Cook sausages in a pan until browned, then slice into thick coins.
5. Top pizza with sausage slices, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Sprinkle parsley on top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day off right with these savory breakfast burritos packed with sausage, eggs, cheese, and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound breakfast sausage (cook’s choice of type)
– 6 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
– 1/2 cup diced onions
– 6 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and fully cooked.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt. Pour into the same skillet and scramble until just set.
3. Add diced bell peppers and onions to the skillet and cook until tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by filling each tortilla with cooked sausage, scrambled eggs, cheese, and veggies.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and White Bean Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of savory sausage, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cannellini beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes or until sausage is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Sausage and Rice
Elevate a classic comfort food with the rich flavors of garlic butter and savory sausage. This easy recipe combines tender rice, juicy sausage, and aromatic garlic for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
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.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Stir in the cooked sausage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells Recipe
A creative twist on traditional stuffed shells, this recipe combines the savory flavors of sausage and spinach with a comforting pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted. Let cool slightly.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, and beaten egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage-spinach mixture and place in a baking dish.
8. Top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pan Sausage and Veggie Bake
A hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines juicy sausage with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in one easy step.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell peppers, and zucchinis to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add the cherry tomatoes and olive oil to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Cornbread Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole perfect for a chilly evening or a family gathering. This recipe combines the savory flavors of sausage with the warmth of cornbread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, baking powder, and salt.
4. Combine cooked sausage, onion, garlic, milk, egg, and melted butter in a large mixing bowl.
5. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture; stir until just combined.
6. Pour batter into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown and set.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoky Sausage Jambalaya
Jambalaya is a classic Louisiana dish that combines the flavors of spicy sausage, savory rice, and a medley of vegetables. This recipe adds a smoky twist with the use of smoked sausage and a hint of chipotle peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as andouille), sliced
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A hearty and flavorful stir-fry that combines the savory goodness of sausage with the crunch of cabbage, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers or carrots for added color and flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the cabbage, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until the cabbage is tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine with the cabbage mixture.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this flavorful and satisfying recipe that combines savory sausage, melted cheese, and earthy mushrooms. Perfect for a party or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and let cool slightly.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
5. Top each mushroom with shredded cheese and sprinkle with parsley and garlic.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Lentil Soup
Warm up with this hearty and comforting soup, packed with flavorful sausage and nutritious lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook, 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. Stir in lentils, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash
This autumn-inspired recipe combines the flavors of sausage, apples, and acorn squash for a satisfying and comforting dish. Perfect for a cozy fall evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium acorn squashes
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squashes in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, apple, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet; cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each squash half with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly.
6. Place the stuffed squashes on a baking sheet and drizzle with chicken broth.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the squash is tender and filling is heated through.
Sausage and Broccoli Alfredo
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines savory sausage with the brightness of broccoli and a velvety Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine 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 apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add broccoli, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes or until broccoli is tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir over low heat until smooth and heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and Alfredo sauce. Toss with reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sausage and Sweet Potato Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This recipe combines the flavors of sweet potatoes, savory sausage, and tangy onions in a simple and satisfying skillet dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: paprika, chili powder, or other spices of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the diced sweet potato and stir to combine with the sausage mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired spices.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking to spice up your weeknight dinners? Ground sausage is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of delicious dishes. From hearty stews and soups to savory casseroles and skillet meals, these 20 savory ground sausage recipes offer something for everyone. Try Spicy Sausage and Pepper Skillet, Creamy Sausage and Mushroom Pasta, or Sausage-Stuffed Bell Peppers for a quick and easy dinner solution. Whatever your taste buds desire, you’ll find it in this collection of mouthwatering recipes that showcase the best of ground sausage.
