Sausage is a versatile ingredient that can bring big flavor to meals quickly. It comes in many types and can be used in dishes for any time of day. From breakfast casseroles to hearty dinners, sausage adds a savory kick to recipes.
You’ll find plenty of options with these 40 tasty sausage recipes. They include classic comfort foods, easy one-pan meals, and creative new ideas. Whether you prefer Italian, bratwurst, or breakfast sausage, there’s a dish here for you. Get ready to spice up your menu with these flavorful sausage-based meals.
1. Classic Italian Sausage Lasagna
You can create a delicious Italian sausage lasagna at home. Start by cooking the sausage and mixing it with tomato sauce and seasonings.
Layer the meat sauce with lasagna noodles and a creamy ricotta cheese mixture in a baking dish. Top it all with mozzarella cheese.
Bake the lasagna in a 350°F oven for about 30-40 minutes. For a golden brown top, increase the temperature to 450°F for the last 15-20 minutes.
Let the lasagna cool slightly before serving. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
2. Sausage and Pepper Skillet
This classic dish combines savory sausages with colorful bell peppers for a quick and tasty meal. Start by browning Italian sausage links in a large skillet over medium heat.
Once the sausages are cooked, remove them and slice into pieces. In the same pan, sauté onions and bell peppers until they’re tender.
Add the sliced sausage back to the skillet with the vegetables. Season with Italian herbs like basil and oregano. For extra flavor, you can stir in some garlic and a splash of wine.
Let everything cook together for a few minutes to blend the flavors. Serve your sausage and pepper skillet hot, either on its own or over pasta or rice.
3. Sausage and Bean Soup
Sausage and bean soup is a hearty meal that warms you up on cold days. You can make it with different types of sausage and beans.
Start by cooking the sausage with onions and garlic. Add broth, beans, and vegetables like carrots, celery, and zucchini.
Simmer the soup for about 30 minutes to blend the flavors. You can use canned beans for a quick version, or soak dried beans overnight for a more traditional approach.
This soup is very filling and nutritious. It’s packed with protein from the sausage and beans, plus fiber and vitamins from the veggies.
4. Spicy Sausage Queso Dip
Spicy Sausage Queso Dip is a crowd-pleasing snack perfect for parties. You can make it easily in a pot or slow cooker.
To start, brown pork sausage in a pan and drain the grease. Mix in cheese, milk, and diced tomatoes with green chilies.
Heat the mixture until the cheese melts and it thickens. Stir often to prevent burning. Some recipes add cream cheese or evaporated milk for extra creaminess.
Serve your dip warm with tortilla chips or crackers. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat before serving again.
5. Sausage and Mushroom Risotto
Sausage and mushroom risotto is a tasty dish that combines savory flavors. You’ll need Italian sausage, mushrooms, rice, broth, and herbs.
Start by cooking the sausage in a pan. Remove it and set aside. In the same pan, sauté mushrooms with onions and garlic.
Add rice to the pan and toast it slightly. Pour in some wine or broth to deglaze. Slowly add more broth, stirring often.
When the rice is almost done, mix in the cooked sausage and mushrooms. Finish with butter and cheese for a creamy texture.
This hearty meal is perfect for chilly evenings. You can customize it with different types of sausage or mushrooms.
6. Honey Garlic Sausages
Honey garlic sausages combine sweet and savory flavors for a tasty meal. You can make them easily in one pan or on a sheet pan.
To prepare, slice sausages into 2-inch pieces. Mix honey, garlic, soy sauce, and seasonings in a bowl.
Toss the sausages with the honey garlic sauce. Add vegetables like sweet potatoes or bell peppers for a complete meal.
Arrange everything on a sheet pan and bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes. The sausages will brown nicely and soak up the flavors.
For a skillet version, brown the sausages first. Then add the honey garlic sauce and cook until glazed. This makes a great appetizer too.
7. Kielbasa Potato Soup
Kielbasa potato soup is a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for cold days. To make it, start by browning sliced kielbasa in a large pot.
Next, add diced potatoes, onions, carrots, and celery. Pour in chicken broth and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the potatoes are tender. For a creamier version, you can stir in some heavy cream or milk.
This comforting soup is easy to customize. You can add corn for sweetness or cabbage for extra nutrition. Serve it hot with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
8. Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms
Sausage-stuffed mushrooms make a tasty appetizer for parties or gatherings. To make them, you’ll need mushroom caps and sausage filling.
Start by cleaning the mushrooms and removing the stems. Chop the stems finely to add to the filling.
Mix cooked sausage with cream cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. Spoon this mixture into the mushroom caps.
Bake the stuffed mushrooms until they’re hot and the tops are golden brown. The result is a bite-sized treat with a crunchy top and juicy center.
You can use different types of sausage to change up the flavors. Italian sausage works well, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.
9. Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Sausage and spinach stuffed shells make a tasty and filling meal. You’ll love the mix of flavors in this Italian-inspired dish.
To make it, cook jumbo pasta shells until al dente. While they cool, prepare the filling. Brown Italian sausage in a pan, then mix it with ricotta cheese and cooked spinach.
Stuff the shells with this savory mixture. Place them in a baking dish and cover with your favorite tomato sauce. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake the stuffed shells until the cheese melts and turns golden. The result is a creamy, meaty, and veggie-packed dinner your whole family will enjoy.
10. Sausage and Grits Casserole
Sausage and grits casserole is a comforting Southern dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch. You can make this hearty meal ahead of time for easy entertaining.
To prepare, brown sausage in a skillet and drain. Cook grits according to package directions, then mix in butter and cheese until melted.
Add the cooked sausage, eggs, and seasonings to the grits mixture. Pour everything into a greased baking dish and top with more cheese.
Bake the casserole at 350°F for about an hour until golden brown. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow it to set up.
This versatile recipe works well with different types of sausage and cheese. You can customize it to your taste preferences.
11. Sausage and Sauerkraut
Sausage and sauerkraut is a classic combo that’s easy to make. You can cook it on the stovetop or in the oven.
Start by browning your sausages in a skillet. Add sauerkraut, some chopped onions, and a bit of brown sugar to balance the flavors.
For extra taste, try adding caraway seeds and diced apples. Cook everything together until the sausages are done and the flavors have mixed well.
You can serve this dish with mashed potatoes or crusty bread. It’s a hearty meal that’s perfect for cold days.
12. Sausage and Sweet Potato Hash
Sausage and sweet potato hash is a tasty and filling dish you can enjoy for breakfast or dinner. It combines savory sausage with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes.
To make this hash, dice sweet potatoes and cook them until they start to caramelize. Add sliced sausage, bell peppers, and onions to the pan.
Season the mixture with spices like paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Cook everything together until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is browned.
For extra protein, you can top your hash with a fried egg. This dish is versatile and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
13. Cajun Sausage Pasta
Cajun sausage pasta brings spicy flavors to your dinner table. You’ll love this easy one-pot meal.
Start by browning sliced sausage in a large skillet. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
In the same pan, sauté bell peppers and mushrooms. Add fire-roasted tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, pasta, and chicken broth.
Cover and simmer until the pasta is tender, about 12-15 minutes. Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan for a creamy sauce.
Return the sausage to the pan and mix well. Your spicy, flavorful Cajun sausage pasta is ready to serve.
14. Sausage and Crescent Roll Breakfast Casserole
This tasty casserole combines savory sausage with buttery crescent rolls for a delicious morning meal. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare.
Start by cooking your favorite breakfast sausage. Layer crescent roll dough in a baking dish, then add the cooked sausage on top.
Mix eggs, cheese, and seasonings in a bowl. Pour this mixture over the sausage and crescent rolls. Bake until golden brown and set.
This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd at brunch. You can even prep it the night before and bake it in the morning for a stress-free meal.
15. Sausage and Egg Muffins
Sausage and egg muffins are a tasty breakfast treat you can make at home. They’re easy to prepare and perfect for busy mornings.
To make these muffins, start by cooking crumbled sausage in a skillet. Drain the fat and let it cool a bit.
In a bowl, mix eggs, cheese, and the cooked sausage. You can add some salt and pepper for extra flavor.
Grease a muffin tin and fill each cup about 3/4 full with the mixture. Bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes until golden brown.
These muffins are great for meal prep. You can make a batch and reheat them throughout the week for quick breakfasts.
16. Sausage and Veggie Foil Packets
Sausage and veggie foil packets are a quick and tasty meal option. You can make them on the grill or in the oven.
Start by choosing your favorite sausage – chicken, turkey, or Italian all work well. Cut it into bite-sized pieces.
Add some chopped veggies like bell peppers, onions, potatoes, and green beans. Toss everything with olive oil and seasonings.
Wrap the mixture in foil squares. If grilling, cook for about 15-20 minutes. For oven cooking, bake at 400°F for 30-35 minutes.
These foil packets are great for camping trips or easy weeknight dinners. Clean-up is a breeze too!
17. Beer-Braised Sausages
Beer-braised sausages are a tasty and easy dish to make. You start by browning the sausages in a pan. Then you add sliced onions and peppers.
Pour in some beer and let everything simmer together. The beer adds flavor and keeps the sausages juicy. You can use any type of beer you like.
Cook until the sausages are done and the vegetables are soft. Serve the sausages with the cooked veggies and some mustard on the side. This dish goes great with potatoes or crusty bread.
It’s a perfect meal for a casual dinner or game day gathering. The leftovers also make great sandwiches.
18. Sausage, Kale, and Lentil Soup
This hearty soup combines savory sausage, nutritious kale, and protein-packed lentils. It’s a filling meal perfect for chilly days.
To make it, start by browning your favorite sausage in a large pot. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery for a flavorful base.
Stir in garlic, herbs like thyme and rosemary, and your choice of lentils. Red or green lentils work well. Pour in broth and simmer until the lentils are tender.
Add chopped kale near the end of cooking. It will wilt quickly while keeping its bright color. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This versatile soup allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. You can use turkey sausage for a leaner option or add potatoes for extra heartiness.
19. Sausage and Apple Stuffing
This classic dish combines savory sausage with sweet apples for a delicious stuffing. You’ll need bread cubes, sausage, apples, celery, onion, and sage.
Start by cooking the sausage in a skillet until browned. Add diced celery, onion, and apples, cooking until tender.
Mix the sausage mixture with bread cubes and chopped fresh sage in a large bowl. Pour in some broth to moisten.
Transfer to a baking dish and cook at 375°F for about 30 minutes until golden brown on top. The result is a flavorful stuffing perfect for holidays or any time.
20. Sausage-Stuffed Acorn Squash
Sausage-stuffed acorn squash is a tasty fall dish that combines sweet squash with savory sausage. To make it, cut acorn squashes in half and roast them until tender.
While the squash cooks, brown some Italian sausage in a pan. Mix the cooked sausage with vegetables like onions and mushrooms.
Scoop the sausage mixture into the roasted squash halves. Top with Parmesan cheese and bake until everything is hot and bubbly.
This recipe works well as a main dish or side. You can customize it by using different types of sausage or adding extra veggies and herbs to the filling.
21. Sausage and Shrimp Jambalaya
Sausage and shrimp jambalaya is a tasty one-pot meal from Louisiana. You’ll love the mix of flavors and textures in this dish.
To make it, start by cooking sliced andouille sausage in a large pot. Add onions, peppers, and celery – known as the “Cajun trinity.”
Stir in rice, tomatoes, and Creole seasoning. Let it simmer until the rice is tender. At the end, add peeled shrimp and cook for a few more minutes.
This hearty dish is perfect for feeding a crowd. You can adjust the spice level to your liking by adding more or less Creole seasoning.
22. Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Sandwich
This breakfast classic combines savory sausage, fluffy eggs, and melted cheese on a toasted English muffin. It’s a protein-packed way to start your day.
To make it, cook a sausage patty until browned. Fry an egg to your liking – sunny-side up or over-easy work well. Place a slice of cheese on the bottom half of the muffin.
Add the hot sausage patty on top of the cheese, then the egg. Close the sandwich with the top half of the muffin. The heat will melt the cheese slightly.
You can make these sandwiches ahead and freeze them for busy mornings. Just reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to eat.
23. Italian Sausage and Peppers
Italian sausage and peppers is a classic dish that’s easy to make. You’ll need Italian sausages, bell peppers, and onions as the main ingredients.
Start by cooking the sausages in a skillet until they’re browned. Remove them and set aside. In the same pan, sauté sliced peppers and onions until they’re soft.
Add the sausages back to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in some crushed tomatoes and seasonings like garlic, oregano, and basil.
Let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend and the sausages to cook through.
Serve your Italian sausage and peppers hot. It’s great on its own or in a sandwich roll.
24. Sausage and Broccoli Rabe
Sausage and broccoli rabe make a delicious pairing. This dish combines savory sausage with slightly bitter greens for a tasty meal.
To make it, brown Italian sausage in a pan. Remove the sausage and cook garlic in the same pan. Add chopped broccoli rabe and some pasta water.
Return the sausage to the pan and cook everything together. The broccoli rabe should be tender but still have some bite. You can add red pepper flakes for extra heat if you like.
Serve this over pasta like ziti for a hearty dinner. The flavors blend nicely, with the sausage adding richness to balance the broccoli rabe.
25. Sausage and Polenta
Sausage and polenta make a tasty combo that’s easy to whip up. You can create this dish in one skillet for simple cleanup.
Start by cooking Italian sausages in a pan until browned. Remove them and slice into rounds. In the same pan, sauté garlic and add tomatoes to make a quick sauce.
While that simmers, prepare the polenta. Mix cornmeal with water and cook until thick. Stir in some Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Layer the polenta in a baking dish. Top with the sausage slices and tomato sauce. Sprinkle on more cheese and broil until golden and bubbly.
This hearty meal combines creamy polenta with savory sausage and tangy tomato sauce. It’s comfort food that’s sure to satisfy.
26. Sausage and Ricotta Pizza
Sausage and ricotta pizza offers a delicious twist on traditional pizza. To make it, start by preheating your oven to 450°F.
Roll out your pizza dough and spread a layer of tomato sauce. Mix ricotta cheese with herbs like basil, oregano, and parsley.
Brown Italian sausage in a skillet and crumble it. Spread the ricotta mixture over the sauce, then add the cooked sausage and shredded mozzarella.
Bake the pizza for about 12-15 minutes until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
This pizza combines creamy ricotta, savory sausage, and melty mozzarella for a tasty meal you’ll love.
27. Andouille Sausage Gumbo
Andouille sausage gumbo is a hearty Cajun dish that brings the flavors of New Orleans to your kitchen. You’ll start by making a dark roux, which gives the gumbo its rich color and taste.
Next, add the “holy trinity” of onions, celery, and bell peppers. Toss in sliced andouille sausage for a smoky kick. Some recipes also include chicken for extra protein.
Okra helps thicken the gumbo and adds a unique texture. Simmer everything in chicken broth until the flavors meld. Serve your gumbo over hot rice for a filling meal.
This dish takes time to prepare, but the result is worth it. You’ll enjoy a bowl of authentic Louisiana comfort food right at home.
28. Sausage and Grapes
Sausage and grapes might sound like an odd combo, but it’s a tasty treat. You can make this dish easily in your oven or on the stovetop.
Start by picking your favorite sausages. Italian sausages work well, but you can use any type you like. Add some red seedless grapes to the mix.
Roast everything together in a pan. The grapes will become soft and sweet as they cook. They’ll make a nice sauce for the sausages.
You can add some shallots or onions for extra flavor. Rosemary is a great herb to use too. It goes well with both the sausages and grapes.
Serve this dish right from the pan or on a platter. It’s great with some fresh bread on the side to soak up the juices.
29. Sausage and Pepperoni Stromboli
Sausage and pepperoni stromboli is a tasty Italian-inspired dish. You can make it easily at home with just a few ingredients.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Roll out pizza dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spread a thin layer of pizza sauce down the middle of the dough. Layer on provolone cheese, pepperoni, mozzarella, and cooked sausage.
Fold the sides of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal. Brush the top with olive oil for a golden crust.
Bake for about 20-25 minutes until the crust is crispy and golden brown. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
30. Sausage-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Sausage-stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and filling meal. To make them, brown Italian sausage in a skillet. Add onions, garlic, and diced tomatoes to the pan.
Mix in cooked rice, spices, and Parmesan cheese. Cut bell peppers in half and remove the seeds. Spoon the sausage mixture into the pepper halves.
Top with shredded cheese and bake in a 375°F oven. Cook until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted. This dish is easy to make and packed with flavor.
31. Sausage and Cheddar Biscuits
Sausage and cheddar biscuits are a tasty breakfast treat. You can make them easily at home with a few simple ingredients.
Start by mixing flour, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Cut in cold butter until the mixture is crumbly. Add cooked, crumbled sausage and shredded cheddar cheese.
Stir in milk or buttermilk to form a soft dough. Drop spoonfuls onto a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
These biscuits are best served warm. You can freeze extras and reheat them later for a quick breakfast on busy mornings.
32. Sausage and Black Bean Chili
Sausage and black bean chili is a hearty dish that combines savory flavors with protein-packed ingredients. You’ll start by browning ground sausage in a large pot or Dutch oven.
Next, add diced onions and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onions soften. Stir in black beans, diced tomatoes, and your favorite chili spices like cumin and chili powder.
Let the chili simmer for about 20-25 minutes to blend the flavors. This one-pot meal is perfect for cold evenings or game day gatherings.
You can customize your chili by adding corn, bell peppers, or extra heat with jalapeños. Serve with toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, or cilantro for a satisfying meal.
33. Sausage and Spinach Quiche
Sausage and spinach quiche is a tasty dish that combines savory flavors. You’ll need a pie crust, sausage, spinach, cheese, eggs, and milk.
Start by browning the sausage in a skillet. Add some chopped onions for extra flavor. Spread the cooked sausage in the pie crust.
Layer in fresh spinach and your favorite cheese. A mix of cheddar and feta works well. Pour a mixture of beaten eggs and milk over the filling.
Bake the quiche at 375°F for about 30-40 minutes. It’s done when the center is set and the top is golden brown.
Let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This quiche is great for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
34. Sausage and Brussels Sprouts
Sausage and Brussels sprouts make a tasty combo that’s easy to cook. You can roast them together on a sheet pan for a quick meal.
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F. Score the sausages lightly and toss them with Brussels sprouts, potatoes, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
Spread everything on a hot sheet pan and roast for about 25 minutes. Shake the pan once or twice while cooking. The sausages will get crispy and the Brussels sprouts will caramelize.
For extra flavor, try adding a honey mustard sauce. This dish works great with Italian sausage or any other type you like.
35. Sausage and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew combines savory sausage with creamy white beans for a comforting meal. To start, soak dried white beans overnight or use canned beans for a quicker option.
Brown Italian sausage in a large pot, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Add diced onions, carrots, celery, and garlic, cooking until the veggies soften.
Stir in the beans, broth, and herbs like thyme and rosemary. Simmer the stew for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.
You can customize this dish by adding spinach or kale for extra nutrients. Serve the stew hot with crusty bread for dipping.
36. Sausage and Cornbread Stuffed Minis
These tasty bites combine savory sausage with sweet cornbread for a perfect appetizer or snack. You’ll love how easy they are to make.
Start by cooking your favorite sausage and crumbling it. Mix cornbread batter using cornmeal, flour, and basic ingredients like eggs and milk.
Spoon the cornbread mixture into mini muffin tins. Top each with a bit of cooked sausage. Bake until golden brown, about 7-9 minutes.
For extra flavor, try adding cheese to the batter or mixing herbs into the sausage. These mini muffins are great for parties or game day snacks.
37. Sausage Carbonara
Sausage carbonara puts a tasty twist on the classic Italian pasta dish. You’ll love this rich and creamy meal that comes together quickly.
Start by cooking spaghetti in salted water until al dente. While the pasta cooks, form small meatballs from Italian sausage removed from its casing.
Brown the sausage meatballs in a pan. In a bowl, whisk eggs with grated Parmesan cheese. When the pasta is done, add it to the pan with the sausage.
Remove the pan from heat and quickly stir in the egg mixture. The residual heat will cook the eggs into a silky sauce that coats the pasta and sausage.
38. Garlic Sausage and Peppers Sandwich
This tasty sandwich combines juicy sausages with sweet peppers and savory garlic. Start by cooking Italian sausages in a skillet until browned.
Remove the sausages and set them aside. In the same pan, sauté sliced bell peppers and onions with minced garlic. Add salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
Once the veggies are soft, return the sausages to the pan to heat through. Slice open crusty Italian rolls and fill them with the sausage and pepper mixture.
For added flavor, you can spread some marinara sauce on the rolls before adding the filling. Sprinkle with grated cheese if desired and enjoy your delicious sandwich.
39. Sausage and Zucchini Skillet
This quick and easy skillet meal combines savory sausage with fresh zucchini for a tasty dinner option. Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Slice your favorite sausage and cook it until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
Next, add diced zucchini, onions, and bell peppers to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and herbs like oregano and basil.
Cook the vegetables until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Return the sausage to the pan and stir to combine everything.
This one-pan meal is ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling and flavorful without much fuss.
40. Sausage and Broccoli Pasta
Sausage and broccoli pasta is a tasty meal you can make in about 30 minutes. It combines protein, veggies, and carbs in one dish.
To make it, cook your pasta of choice. Orecchiette works well, but any shape will do. While the pasta cooks, brown some Italian sausage in a pan.
Add chopped broccoli to the sausage. Cook until the broccoli is tender. Mix in the cooked pasta and some grated cheese.
For extra flavor, you can add garlic, red pepper flakes, or a splash of cream. This dish is great for busy weeknights when you need a quick, filling meal.
Health Benefits of Sausage
Sausage offers several nutritional benefits when eaten as part of a balanced diet. It provides protein, vitamins, and minerals that support health and bodily functions.
Nutritional Information
A typical 3-ounce serving of pork sausage contains about 250-300 calories. It has 13-16 grams of protein and 22-27 grams of fat. The fat content varies based on the cut of meat used.
Sausage made from poultry like chicken or turkey is lower in calories and fat. A 3-ounce serving has around 140-170 calories and 7-10 grams of fat.
Most sausages are high in sodium, with 600-900 mg per serving. Look for low-sodium options if you watch your salt intake.
Protein Content
Sausage is a good source of protein. A 3-ounce serving provides 13-16 grams, which is about 25-30% of your daily needs.
Protein helps build and repair tissues in your body. It supports: • Muscle growth and strength • Bone health • Immune system function • Hormone and enzyme production
The protein in sausage contains all essential amino acids your body needs. This makes it a complete protein source.
Vitamins and Minerals
Sausage contains several key vitamins and minerals:
• B vitamins: Help turn food into energy and support brain function • Iron: Needed for red blood cell production and oxygen transport • Zinc: Supports immune health and wound healing • Selenium: Acts as an antioxidant to protect cells
Pork sausage is rich in thiamin (vitamin B1). A 3-ounce serving provides about 25% of your daily needs.
Turkey and chicken sausage are good sources of niacin (vitamin B3). They offer 25-30% of your daily value per serving.
Cooking Tips for Sausage
Cooking sausage properly ensures great flavor and food safety. These tips will help you grill and store sausages like a pro.
Grilling Techniques
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This prevents sticking and allows even cooking. Place sausages on the grates and close the lid. Turn them every few minutes to brown all sides.
Avoid piercing the casings with a fork. This lets the juices escape and can dry out the meat. Instead, use tongs to handle the sausages gently.
For juicy results, grill sausages until they reach 160°F internally. Use a meat thermometer to check. The outside should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
If flare-ups occur, move sausages to a cooler part of the grill. This prevents burning while they finish cooking through.
Proper Storage Methods
Keep raw sausages in the fridge at 40°F or below. Use within 1-2 days of purchase or freeze for longer storage. When freezing, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Then place in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.
Thaw frozen sausages in the refrigerator, never on the counter. This keeps bacteria growth in check. Plan ahead – thawing can take 24 hours.
Store cooked sausages in airtight containers in the fridge. Eat within 3-4 days for best quality and safety. Reheat leftovers to 165°F before eating.
Label containers with the date to track freshness. Toss any sausages that smell off or show signs of mold.
Pairing Sausage with Sides
Sausages taste great on their own, but the right sides and drinks can make them even better. Here are some tasty options to try with your next sausage meal.
Best Side Dishes
Mashed potatoes are a classic choice that goes well with many sausage types. The creamy texture balances the meat nicely. For a healthier option, try roasted vegetables like peppers, onions, and zucchini. Their sweetness pairs great with savory sausage flavors.
Sauerkraut adds a tangy crunch that cuts through rich sausages. It’s especially good with bratwurst or other German-style sausages. A fresh green salad can lighten up a heavy sausage meal. Add some vinaigrette dressing for extra zing.
For breakfast sausages, eggs make the perfect partner. Scrambled, fried, or in an omelet – you can’t go wrong. Baked beans are another tasty choice, especially with British bangers.
Beverage Pairings
Beer is a classic drink to have with sausages. Try a crisp lager or wheat beer with lighter sausages. For spicy or smoked varieties, a darker ale or stout works well.
If you prefer wine, pick a robust red like Syrah or Zinfandel for bold sausages. Lighter options like Pinot Noir go nicely with chicken or turkey sausages.
For non-alcoholic choices, sparkling water with lemon can cleanse your palate between bites. Apple cider is another refreshing option that complements many sausage flavors.
Hot drinks like coffee or tea can work well for breakfast sausages. Their bitterness balances out the fatty richness of the meat.