Are you tired of letting leftover sausage go to waste? Do you find yourself stuck in a rut, wondering what to do with those extra links or patties? Look no further! We’ve got 18 mouth-watering recipe ideas that will transform your leftover sausage into a flavorful and satisfying meal. From hearty breakfast dishes to comforting pasta bakes, these recipes are sure to inspire you to get creative with your leftovers.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our favorite ways to repurpose leftover sausage, from classic comfort foods to international-inspired twists. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy solution or something more elaborate, we’ve got you covered. So go ahead, dig in, and discover the endless possibilities of what can be done with leftover sausage!
Sausage and Pepper Pasta Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines the flavors of sausage, peppers, onions, and pasta in a rich tomato sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the sausage in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and peppers to the skillet; cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, pasta, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer; reduce heat to medium-low and cook, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Leftover Sausage Breakfast Hash
A clever way to repurpose leftover sausage and veggies into a satisfying breakfast or brunch dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked sausage (any type), diced
– 2 cups mixed leftover vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, potatoes)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 2 eggs, beaten; shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked sausage; stir-fry for about 5 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. If using eggs, create wells in the mixture and pour in the beaten eggs.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the eggs are set (if using).
8. Serve hot, topped with shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sausage and Potato Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory sausage and creamy potatoes, sure to warm your belly on a chilly day. With minimal prep time and easy cooking, this recipe is a great option for a weeknight dinner or weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Once browned, remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
5. Stir in cooked sausage and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Cheese Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy sausage with melted cheese and sweet bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each pepper with the sausage mixture, followed by shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spicy Sausage Fried Rice
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines savory sausage with crunchy vegetables and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as chorizo or hot Italian), sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Push vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble until cooked through. Mix with vegetables.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until combined with vegetable mixture.
7. Return sausage to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
8. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the savory taste of sausage with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed. Then, add 1/2 cup of warmed broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments and waiting for it to absorb, about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: About 30-35 minutes
Leftover Sausage Pizza Quesadillas
Transform leftover sausage pizza into a new, delicious meal with these easy-to-make quesadillas. Perfect for using up leftovers and satisfying your cravings!
Ingredients:
– 2-3 leftover sausage pizzas (crusts broken into pieces)
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the leftover pizza crusts, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.
3. Place one-quarter of the mixture onto half of a tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Brush both sides of the quesadilla with olive oil.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
7. Serve warm, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Sausage and Spinach Frittata
Elevate your brunch game with this savory and satisfying Sausage and Spinach Frittata, packed with juicy sausage and fresh spinach.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt and pepper.
6. Pour the egg mixture over the sausage and spinach mixture in the skillet.
7. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the frittata is cooked through and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Cheesy Sausage and Broccoli Bake
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of juicy sausage, tender broccoli, and creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange sausage and vegetable mixture in an even layer. Top with cheese mixture and drizzle with milk.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos
Start your day off right with these flavorful Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), casings removed
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 flour tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, salsa
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, until browned and cooked through.
3. Crack eggs into a bowl and whisk together. Pour into the same skillet as the sausage and scramble until set.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by adding scrambled eggs, sausage, cheese, and black beans to each tortilla.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to melt cheese and warm ingredients through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Leftover Sausage Corn Chowder
Transform yesterday’s sausage dinner into a hearty and comforting soup with this simple recipe. Perfect for using up leftover sausage, corn, and potatoes!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked sausage (such as kielbasa or Italian sausage), diced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large potato, peeled and diced
– 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the sausage, chicken broth, onion, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Add the corn kernels and potato. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the milk or half-and-half. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry
Quick and flavorful, this Sausage and Cabbage Stir-Fry is a great way to get your daily dose of veggies and protein. This recipe takes only 20 minutes from start to finish!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet sausage (such as Italian or Chorizo), sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, chili flakes, or red pepper flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the shredded cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the pan and stir-fry everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sausage and White Bean Cassoulet
A hearty, comforting French-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of sausage and white beans with a crispy crust. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or a cozy weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 can (15 ounces) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate pot, combine beans, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
6. Combine sausage mixture with bean mixture; transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Top with additional grated Parmesan cheese (if desired); bake for 20-25 minutes, or until crust forms and edges are golden.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Leftover Sausage Stuffed Zucchini
Turn last night’s leftover sausage into a delicious and healthy meal with this easy recipe! Simply stuff cooked zucchinis with the savory sausage mixture and bake until golden brown.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup leftover cooked sausage (any type), crumbled
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Slice the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/8 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together the cooked sausage, breadcrumbs, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each zucchini with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly among the two.
5. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is golden brown.
7. Serve hot, garnished with shredded mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sausage and Tomato Pasta Bake
A hearty and satisfying pasta bake filled with juicy sausage, sweet tomatoes, and gooey melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add diced tomatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and grated cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sausage and Kale Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of savory sausage, nutritious lentils, and earthy kale, all simmered together in a rich broth. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and kale. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Leftover Sausage and Potato Tacos
Transform last night’s dinner into a flavorful taco filling with this easy recipe. Perfect for using up leftover sausage and potatoes, these tacos are a fun twist on traditional Mexican cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup leftover cooked sausage (such as chorizo or breakfast links), diced
– 2 medium-sized leftover mashed potatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 8-10 taco shells
– Shredded cheese, lettuce, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced sausage and cook until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the mashed potatoes to the skillet and stir until well combined with the sausage mixture.
5. Warm taco shells according to package instructions.
6. Assemble tacos by filling shells with the sausage-potato mixture, and top with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Apple Stuffed Acorn Squash
This recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the savory flavor of sausage, all wrapped up in a tender acorn squash. Perfect for a cozy fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized acorn squashes
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squashes in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place them on a baking sheet.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in diced apple, dried sage, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each squash half with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly between the two.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the squashes and bake for 35-40 minutes or until the flesh is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get creative with your leftover sausages and transform them into delicious meals! This article features 18 flavorful recipes that will breathe new life into your stale sausages. From hearty pasta skillets to spicy stir-fries, breakfast hashes to savory cassoulet, there’s something for everyone. Try making a Sausage and Pepper Pasta Skillet or Leftover Sausage Breakfast Hash for a quick and easy meal. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at Sausage and Mushroom Risotto or Sausage and Kale Lentil Stew. Whatever your taste buds desire, there’s a leftover sausage recipe to satisfy it!
