Ground sausage is a versatile ingredient that can transform any meal. It adds rich flavor and protein to dishes, making them more satisfying and delicious.
You can use it in many types of recipes, from breakfast to dinner and even snacks.
With these 25 ground sausage recipes, you’ll never run out of tasty meal ideas. They cover a range of dishes, including pasta, stuffed vegetables, and casseroles.
These recipes are easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. You’ll find options that fit different diets and taste preferences.
1. Sausage and Pepper Skillet
This tasty dish combines ground sausage with colorful bell peppers for a quick and easy meal. Start by browning the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced onions and garlic to the pan for extra flavor. Toss in chopped red, yellow, and green peppers.
Cook until the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized.
Season with Italian herbs like oregano and basil. For a touch of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Serve this savory skillet over rice or with crusty bread to soak up the juices.
You can customize this recipe by using different types of ground sausage. Try spicy Italian, mild turkey, or even vegetarian options to suit your taste.
2. Sausage Gravy and Biscuits
Sausage gravy and biscuits is a classic comfort food. You can make this dish easily at home.
Start by cooking ground sausage in a large skillet until it’s brown.
Add butter to the cooked sausage and let it melt. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. This creates a roux that thickens the gravy.
Pour milk into the skillet and stir constantly. The gravy will thicken as it cooks.
Season with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like.
Serve the hot gravy over freshly baked biscuits. You can use store-bought biscuits or make your own from scratch.
This hearty meal is perfect for breakfast or brunch.
3. Spicy Sausage Pasta
Spicy sausage pasta is a quick and tasty meal you can make any night of the week. Start by cooking your favorite pasta in salted water until it’s al dente.
While the pasta cooks, brown spicy Italian sausage in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds.
Pour in some broth, diced tomatoes, and a splash of cream. Add the pasta to the skillet with salt and pepper.
Simmer everything together until the pasta is tender and the sauce thickens.
Finish the dish by stirring in some grated cheese. You’ll have a delicious, spicy pasta dinner ready in about 20 minutes.
4. Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms
Sausage stuffed mushrooms are a tasty appetizer you can make for parties or gatherings. They combine savory ground sausage with cheese and herbs in mushroom caps.
To make them, remove the stems from large mushrooms. Cook Italian sausage and mix it with cream cheese, Parmesan, and seasonings.
Spoon this filling into the mushroom caps.
Bake the stuffed mushrooms until they’re golden and heated through. The result is a bite-sized treat with a meaty, cheesy center and tender mushroom exterior.
You can customize the flavors by using different types of sausage or cheeses. Some recipes add breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
These make-ahead appetizers are sure to please a crowd.
5. Creamy Sausage Tortellini
Creamy sausage tortellini is a tasty and filling meal you can make in one skillet. Start by cooking ground sausage in a pan until it’s browned. Set the sausage aside and wipe out the pan.
Add cream, seasonings, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. In a separate bowl, mix chicken broth and cornstarch, then add this to the pan.
Cook tortellini according to package directions.
Combine the cooked tortellini, sausage, and sauce in the skillet. For extra flavor, try adding spinach and tomatoes.
Stir everything together and let it simmer until heated through.
This dish is quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights. You can easily adjust the flavors by using different types of sausage or tortellini.
6. Sausage and Spinach Frittata
You’ll love this easy sausage and spinach frittata. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
To make it, cook ground sausage in an ovenproof skillet. Add spinach and let it wilt. Pour in whisked eggs mixed with milk.
Cook until the edges set.
Pop the skillet in the oven to finish cooking. The frittata is done when it’s puffy and golden on top.
You can add other veggies like mushrooms or onions for extra flavor. Serve it hot, sliced into wedges.
7. Sausage and Bean Soup
Sausage and bean soup is a hearty dish that’s perfect for cold days. You’ll need ground sausage, beans, and veggies like carrots, celery, and onions.
Brown the sausage in a pot. Add chopped vegetables and cook until soft. Stir in beans, broth, and seasonings.
Let the soup simmer for about 2 hours. This allows the flavors to blend and the beans to become tender.
You can use canned beans to save time.
For extra flavor, try adding tomatoes or bell peppers. A splash of cream at the end makes the soup richer.
Serve with crusty bread for a filling meal.
8. Sausage Jambalaya
Sausage jambalaya is a tasty one-pot meal that’s easy to make. You’ll need sausage, rice, vegetables, and spices.
Start by cooking sliced sausage in a large pot. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and celery. Cook until the veggies are soft.
Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Creole seasoning. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
Cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. This usually takes about an hour.
Serve your jambalaya hot. It’s a filling dish that’s great for dinner or potlucks.
9. Sausage Lasagna
Sausage lasagna is a tasty twist on the classic Italian dish. You can make it with sweet or spicy Italian sausage, depending on your preference.
To start, brown the sausage with onions and garlic. Then mix it with tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes for a flavorful meat sauce.
Layer the sauce with lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese, and mozzarella. Repeat these layers until you reach the top of your baking dish.
Bake the lasagna until it’s hot and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
10. Sweet and Sour Sausage
This tasty dish combines savory ground sausage with a tangy sweet and sour sauce. You’ll love the mix of flavors and textures.
Start by browning the sausage in a skillet. Add chopped onions, bell peppers, and carrots for extra flavor and crunch.
Make the sauce by mixing sugar, cornstarch, vinegar, and ketchup. Pour it over the sausage and veggies, stirring until it thickens.
For a fruity twist, toss in some pineapple chunks or apricot preserves. The sweetness pairs perfectly with the sour notes.
This meal comes together quickly, making it great for busy weeknights. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete dinner.
11. Sausage and Kale Stir Fry
This quick and easy stir fry combines savory ground sausage with nutritious kale. Start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and bell peppers, cooking until they soften.
Crumble in the ground sausage and cook until browned. Toss in chopped kale and stir until it wilts down.
Season with garlic, salt, and pepper to taste.
For extra flavor, try adding red pepper flakes or your favorite herbs. Serve this tasty stir fry over rice or with crusty bread on the side.
You can have a delicious meal on the table in under 30 minutes.
12. Sausage and Mushroom Pizza
Sausage and mushroom pizza is a tasty combo that’s easy to make at home. Start with a pre-made or homemade pizza crust.
Spread pizza sauce on the crust, then add cooked ground sausage and sliced mushrooms.
You can use regular button mushrooms or try fancier varieties like shiitake or portobello. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the toppings.
For extra flavor, add some minced garlic or Italian herbs.
Bake your pizza in a hot oven until the crust is crispy and the cheese melts. Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing.
This hearty pizza is perfect for a family dinner or game night with friends.
13. Breakfast Sausage Casserole
This hearty dish combines savory sausage, eggs, and cheese for a filling morning meal. You can prep it the night before and bake it in the morning.
Start by browning your favorite breakfast sausage in a skillet. While it cooks, line a baking dish with crescent roll dough.
Spread the cooked sausage over the dough and top with shredded cheese.
In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and seasonings, then pour the mixture over the sausage and cheese.
Bake until golden and set. The result is a warm, comforting casserole perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for busy weekdays.
14. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Sausage
Stuffed bell peppers with sausage are a tasty and filling meal. To make them, start by cutting the tops off bell peppers and removing the seeds.
Brown ground sausage in a skillet with onions and garlic. Mix in cooked rice, tomatoes, and cheese. Spoon this mixture into the peppers.
Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cook at 375°F (191°C) for about 30 minutes. Top with more cheese in the last few minutes of baking for a golden crust.
This dish is easy to customize. You can add mushrooms, swap the type of cheese, or use different seasonings to suit your taste.
15. Sausage and Potato Casserole
This cozy dish combines ground sausage and potatoes in a creamy, cheesy bake. Start by browning the sausage in a skillet.
Slice potatoes thinly and layer them in a baking dish. Add the cooked sausage on top.
Mix cream of mushroom soup with milk and pour over the layers. Sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped onions for extra flavor.
Bake the casserole until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices.
Serve hot as a filling main course. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need an easy, satisfying meal.
16. Sausage Alfredo Pizza
Sausage Alfredo pizza combines two Italian favorites into one delicious meal. Start by preheating your oven to 460°F. Roll out pizza dough into a 15-16″ circle and place it on parchment paper.
Cook ground Italian sausage in a skillet until fully done. Drain and set aside. Mix olive oil with Italian seasonings, salt, and garlic powder, then spread on the dough.
Top the pizza with Alfredo sauce, cooked sausage, and mozzarella cheese. Add some fresh arugula for a peppery kick.
Bake until the crust is golden and cheese is bubbly.
This rich and creamy pizza offers a tasty twist on traditional tomato-based versions. You can customize it with your favorite toppings for a unique flavor experience.
17. Sausage and Corn Chowder
Sausage and corn chowder is a hearty meal perfect for chilly evenings. You’ll love how quickly this comforting dish comes together.
Start by browning ground sausage in a large pot. Remove the sausage and set it aside.
In the same pot, cook diced onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
Add diced potatoes, corn kernels, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in milk or cream and the cooked sausage. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Heat through before serving.
For extra flavor, try using spicy sausage or adding a dash of cayenne pepper. You can also mix in different vegetables to suit your taste.
18. Sausage Quesadillas
Sausage quesadillas are a tasty twist on a classic Mexican dish. To make them, start by cooking ground sausage in a skillet until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Add diced onions and peppers to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender. Stir in some corn and seasonings for extra flavor.
Warm up tortillas in a separate pan. Place a layer of cheese on half of each tortilla. Add the sausage mixture on top of the cheese.
Fold the tortillas in half and cook until golden brown on both sides. The cheese should be melted and gooey.
Serve your sausage quesadillas hot with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
19. Italian Sausage Risotto
Italian sausage risotto is a tasty dish that combines creamy rice with flavorful sausage. You’ll need carnaroli or arborio rice, Italian sausage, onion, butter, and broth.
Start by cooking the sausage in a pan until it’s browned. Set it aside and use the same pan to sauté onions in butter. Add the rice and stir to coat it in the butter.
Slowly add warm broth to the rice, stirring often. This process takes about 20 minutes.
When the rice is creamy and tender, mix in the cooked sausage.
Finish your risotto with grated Parmesan cheese and a pat of butter. The result is a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for dinner.
20. Sausage and Lentil Stew
Sausage and lentil stew is a hearty dish that combines savory ground sausage with protein-packed lentils. This meal is perfect for cold evenings when you want something filling and warm.
To make this stew, start by browning your favorite ground sausage in a large pot. Add diced onions, celery, and garlic for extra flavor.
Then, toss in lentils, broth, and diced tomatoes. Let the stew simmer until the lentils are tender.
You can add carrots, herbs, and spices to enhance the taste. This one-pot meal is easy to make and full of nutrients.
Serve your sausage and lentil stew with crusty bread for a complete dinner. It’s a great way to use ground sausage in a nutritious, budget-friendly recipe.
21. Sausage Stuffing Balls
Sausage stuffing balls are a tasty twist on traditional stuffing. You can make them easily by mixing ground sausage with stuffing mix, eggs, and seasonings.
Shape the mixture into small balls and bake them in the oven. They’ll come out crispy on the outside and moist on the inside.
These bite-sized treats are perfect for holiday dinners or potlucks. You can serve them as appetizers or side dishes.
Try adding diced onions or celery for extra flavor and texture. Experiment with different types of sausage to find your favorite combination.
22. Sausage Breakfast Burritos
Sausage breakfast burritos are a tasty and filling way to start your day. To make them, brown ground sausage in a skillet and set it aside.
Scramble eggs in the same pan, adding salt and pepper to taste. Warm up some tortillas and lay them out flat.
Add the cooked sausage, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheese to each tortilla. You can also include extras like sautéed onions, peppers, or mushrooms.
Roll up the tortillas tightly to form burritos. Serve them right away or wrap in foil to keep warm. These portable breakfast treats are great for busy mornings.
23. Sausage and Egg Muffins
Sausage and egg muffins are a tasty breakfast option you can make in about 30 minutes. They’re perfect for busy mornings or meal prep.
To make these muffins, you’ll need ground sausage, eggs, cheese, and a few seasonings. Brown the sausage in a skillet, then mix it with beaten eggs and shredded cheese.
Pour the mixture into greased muffin cups, filling them about 2/3 full. Bake at 350°F for around 25 minutes until set.
These protein-packed muffins are portable and easy to eat on the go. You can customize them by adding veggies like onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
24. Cheesy Sausage Balls
Cheesy sausage balls are a tasty appetizer or snack. You can make them with just a few ingredients. Mix ground sausage, cheese, and baking mix together.
Roll the mixture into small balls and bake them in the oven until golden brown. They come out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
You can serve these sausage balls hot or at room temperature. They’re great for parties or game day snacks. Try different types of cheese for variety, and add some spices to give them extra flavor.
25. Sausage and Zucchini Bake
This tasty casserole combines ground sausage and zucchini for a hearty meal. Start by cooking the sausage in a skillet with onions until browned.
Slice zucchini into thin rounds and layer in a baking dish. Add the cooked sausage mixture on top, then pour in some diced tomatoes for extra flavor and moisture.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over everything. Bake at 400°F for about 30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
This easy one-dish meal is perfect for using up summer zucchini. You can customize it by adding other veggies or spices you enjoy.
Benefits of Cooking with Ground Sausage
Ground sausage adds rich flavor and hearty protein to many dishes. It’s a versatile ingredient that can boost the taste and nutrition of your meals.
Nutritional Profile
Ground sausage packs a protein punch, with about 15-20 grams per 3-ounce serving. It also provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
These nutrients support healthy blood cells, immune function, and energy metabolism. Ground sausage does contain fat, but you can opt for leaner varieties to reduce calories.
Some types are fortified with extra nutrients. For example, some brands add vitamin D or omega-3 fatty acids to their sausage.
Flavor Versatility
Ground sausage comes in many flavors to suit different tastes and cuisines. Popular options include Italian, breakfast, chorizo, and bratwurst styles.
You can easily swap ground sausage into recipes that call for ground beef or turkey. It adds a flavor boost to pasta sauces, casseroles, soups, and more.
The pre-seasoned nature of sausage saves time in the kitchen. You don’t need to add as many extra spices or herbs to your dishes.
Try mixing ground sausage with other meats like beef or turkey. This creates new flavor combos while stretching your protein budget.
Tips for Selecting Quality Sausage
Picking good sausage makes a big difference in your recipes. Look for fresh ingredients and check the packaging carefully.
Understanding Ingredients
Check the label to see what’s in the sausage. Good sausages have simple ingredients you can recognize. Look for ones with mostly meat and natural spices. Avoid sausages with lots of fillers or hard-to-pronounce chemicals.
Pick sausages that match your taste. If you like spicy food, try hot Italian sausage. For milder flavor, go with sweet Italian or breakfast sausage.
Some sausages have extra ingredients like cheese or herbs. These can add flavor but may change how the sausage cooks. Think about your recipe when choosing.
Evaluating Freshness
Always check the “use by” date on the package.
Fresh sausage should be firm and have a bright color. Avoid any that look slimy or have a strong smell.
If you’re buying from a butcher, ask when the sausage was made. Fresher is better.
Look for sausages that are tightly packed with no air pockets.
Store sausage in the coldest part of your fridge. Use it within a few days for best quality.
You can freeze sausage, but use it within 1-2 months for the best taste.