20 Delicious Healthy Italian Sausage Recipes Nutritious

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Written By zhengshangxiao110119

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Craving something hearty yet healthy? Dive into our roundup of 20 Delicious Healthy Italian Sausage Recipes that promise to spice up your meal routine without the guilt! Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, these dishes blend the rich flavors of Italian sausage with nutritious twists. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, there’s something here to make your taste buds dance. Let’s get cooking!

Healthy Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet

Healthy Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet

This Healthy Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a vibrant one-pan wonder that brings the rustic flavors of Italy right to your dinner table, with a lighter twist that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 medium onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian turkey sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add sliced red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and cook for 5 minutes, until vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Pour in low-sodium chicken broth and balsamic vinegar, stirring to deglaze the pan. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
  4. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

The balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness that perfectly balances the savory sausage and spicy pepper flakes, creating a dish that’s as flavorful as it is colorful.

Tip: For an extra kick, try using spicy Italian sausage instead of turkey sausage.

Whole Wheat Pasta with Italian Sausage and Spinach

Whole Wheat Pasta with Italian Sausage and Spinach

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Whole Wheat Pasta with Italian Sausage and Spinach, a dish that combines robust flavors with wholesome ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the whole wheat pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Combine the cooked pasta with the sausage and spinach mixture. Toss with grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

The magic of this dish lies in the spicy kick from the red pepper flakes balanced by the earthy whole wheat pasta and creamy Parmesan, creating a symphony of flavors in every bite.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the whole wheat pasta in a dry skillet for a few minutes before boiling to bring out its nutty essence.

Low-Calorie Italian Sausage Soup

Low-Calorie Italian Sausage Soup

Warm up with this hearty Low-Calorie Italian Sausage Soup, packed with flavor but light on calories, perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian turkey sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Add baby spinach to the pot, stirring until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh basil if desired. The soup’s vibrant colors and aromatic spices make it as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your bowl.

Healthy Italian Sausage Stuffed Zucchini Boats

Healthy Italian Sausage Stuffed Zucchini Boats

These Healthy Italian Sausage Stuffed Zucchini Boats are a delightful way to enjoy a low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.

Ingredients

  • 4 medium zucchinis, halved lengthwise
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casing removed
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Scoop out the centers of the zucchini halves to create ‘boats,’ leaving about a 1/4-inch border.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  3. Remove from heat and mix in marinara sauce. Spoon the sausage mixture into the zucchini boats, then top with Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The combination of spicy sausage and melted cheese atop tender zucchini makes these boats a crowd-pleaser that’s as nutritious as it is hearty.

Tip: For an extra crunch, broil the zucchini boats for the last 2-3 minutes of baking.

Quinoa and Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Quinoa and Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers

These Quinoa and Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers are a hearty, flavorful twist on a classic, packing a punch of protein and spice in every bite.

Ingredients

  • 4 large bell peppers, any color
  • 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring the quinoa and water to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and onion, cooking until the sausage is browned and the onion is soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper, cooking for 1 more minute.
  4. Combine the cooked quinoa, sausage mixture, and marinara sauce in a large bowl. Spoon the mixture into the bell peppers, then top with mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

The combination of fluffy quinoa, spicy sausage, and melted cheese creates a satisfying texture contrast that’s sure to please. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but ordinary.

Tip: For an extra kick, mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into the quinoa mixture before stuffing the peppers.

Light Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto

Light Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto

Warm up your evening with this Light Italian Sausage and Mushroom Risotto, a creamy dish that’s packed with flavor yet feels surprisingly light.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth, warmed
  • 1/2 cup dry white wine
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
  2. In the same pan, add mushrooms and onion. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute until slightly toasted.
  4. Pour in white wine and cook until absorbed, about 2 minutes.
  5. Add 1 cup of warm chicken broth to the rice, stirring frequently until absorbed. Repeat with remaining broth, 1 cup at a time, until rice is creamy and al dente, about 20 minutes total.
  6. Return sausage to the pan. Stir in Parmesan cheese, butter, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

The secret to this risotto’s lightness lies in the balance of savory sausage and earthy mushrooms, all brought together with a splash of white wine for depth.

Tip: Keep the broth warm on a separate burner to maintain consistent cooking temperature for the risotto.

Healthy Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

Healthy Italian Sausage and Kale Soup

Warm up with this hearty Healthy Italian Sausage and Kale Soup, a perfect blend of spicy sausage and nutritious kale in a savory broth that’s both comforting and easy to make.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 4 cups kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Add kale to the pot and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
  5. Serve hot, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese.

The magic of this soup lies in the way the spicy sausage and earthy kale come together, creating a depth of flavor that’s both robust and refreshing.

Tip: For an extra kick, try using hot Italian sausage instead of mild.

Whole Grain Italian Sausage Pizza

Whole Grain Italian Sausage Pizza

Who says healthy can’t be hearty? This Whole Grain Italian Sausage Pizza packs a flavorful punch with a nutritious twist, perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole grain pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a pizza pan or baking sheet with olive oil.
  2. On a floured surface, roll out the whole grain pizza dough to your desired thickness and transfer it to the prepared pan.
  3. Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border for the crust.
  4. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
  5. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain any excess fat.
  6. Evenly distribute the cooked sausage, black olives, and diced red bell pepper over the cheese.
  7. Sprinkle the dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes over the top.
  8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbly.

The combination of spicy Italian sausage and sweet red bell pepper atop a wholesome whole grain crust offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake the dough for 5 minutes before adding the toppings.

Healthy Italian Sausage and Bean Stew

Healthy Italian Sausage and Bean Stew

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty Healthy Italian Sausage and Bean Stew, a dish that combines robust flavors with nutritious ingredients for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups fresh spinach

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon.
  2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, chicken broth, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

This stew stands out with its perfect balance of savory sausage and creamy beans, all brought together with a hint of oregano for that authentic Italian touch.

Tip: For an extra kick, try using spicy Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings.

Baked Italian Sausage with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

Baked Italian Sausage with Sweet Potatoes and Apples

This Baked Italian Sausage with Sweet Potatoes and Apples is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings a sweet and savory twist to your dinner table, perfect for those cozy nights in.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage links
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 apples, cored and sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and lightly grease a large baking sheet.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sweet potatoes and apples with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp dried rosemary, and 1/2 tsp garlic powder until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the sweet potatoes and apples on the prepared baking sheet, arranging the Italian sausage links on top.
  4. Bake for 25 minutes, then flip the sausages and stir the sweet potatoes and apples. Bake for another 20-25 minutes until the sausages are cooked through and the sweet potatoes are tender.

The magic of this dish lies in the caramelization of the apples and sweet potatoes, which perfectly complements the savory Italian sausage. It’s a simple yet impressive meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.

Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with a little balsamic glaze before serving.

Healthy Italian Sausage and Lentil Salad

Healthy Italian Sausage and Lentil Salad

Looking for a hearty yet healthy dish that packs a punch of flavor? This Italian Sausage and Lentil Salad is a perfect blend of savory and satisfying, with a touch of Italian flair.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried green lentils, rinsed
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 small red onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
  3. Add the red onion and garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for 3 minutes until the onion is translucent.
  4. Stir in the cooked lentils, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Remove from heat and drizzle with red wine vinegar. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

The combination of tender lentils with the savory Italian sausage and the bright pop of red wine vinegar makes this salad a standout dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top before serving.

Grilled Italian Sausage with Vegetable Kabobs

Grilled Italian Sausage with Vegetable Kabobs

Fire up the grill for these Grilled Italian Sausage with Vegetable Kabobs, a perfect blend of savory and smoky flavors that’ll make your summer cookouts unforgettable.

Ingredients

  • 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, depending on preference)
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 zucchini, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano

Instructions

  1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F).
  2. In a large bowl, toss the bell peppers, onion, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano until evenly coated.
  3. Thread the vegetables onto skewers, alternating between the different types for color and variety.
  4. Place the sausage links and vegetable kabobs on the grill. Cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausages are browned and the vegetables are tender with slight char marks.
  5. Serve the grilled sausages and vegetable kabobs hot off the grill for a meal that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for sharing.

The combination of juicy Italian sausage and charred vegetables brings a rustic Italian flair to your backyard barbecue, with minimal prep and maximum taste.

Tip: Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent them from burning.

Healthy Italian Sausage and Eggplant Casserole

Healthy Italian Sausage and Eggplant Casserole

This Healthy Italian Sausage and Eggplant Casserole is a hearty, flavor-packed dish that brings a little bit of Italy to your dinner table without the guilt.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 large eggplant, diced into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup part-skim ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the diced eggplant and olive oil. Cook until the eggplant is soft, about 8 minutes.
  4. Stir in the marinara sauce, garlic powder, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Layer the eggplant mixture and cooked sausage in the prepared baking dish. Dollop with ricotta cheese and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
  6. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

The creamy ricotta and Parmesan topping creates a delightful contrast with the savory sausage and tender eggplant, making every bite a perfect balance of textures.

Tip: For an extra crispy top, broil the casserole for the last 2 minutes of baking.

Light Italian Sausage and Tomato Pasta

Light Italian Sausage and Tomato Pasta

This Light Italian Sausage and Tomato Pasta is a weeknight savior, blending juicy sausage with bright tomatoes for a dish that’s both comforting and fresh.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz. Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 8 oz. pasta (like penne or fusilli)
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add cherry tomatoes, garlic, salt, and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook until tomatoes soften and release their juices, about 3 minutes.
  4. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sausage and tomatoes. Add reserved pasta water, a little at a time, to create a light sauce that coats the pasta.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

The magic of this dish lies in the way the sweet cherry tomatoes burst, mingling with the savory sausage to create a sauce that’s rich yet surprisingly light.

Tip: For an extra touch of freshness, add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.

Healthy Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Soup

Healthy Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Soup

Warm up your evening with this hearty Healthy Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Soup, a perfect blend of savory and sweet that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 cups baby spinach
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 1 lb Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
  3. Stir in the butternut squash, 4 cups chicken broth, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the squash is tender, about 15 minutes.
  4. Add 2 cups baby spinach to the pot, stirring until wilted, about 1 minute.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese.

The magic of this soup lies in the way the sweetness of the butternut squash perfectly balances the spiciness of the Italian sausage, creating a flavor profile that’s both complex and comforting.

Tip: For an extra kick, try using spicy Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when you add the thyme.

Whole Wheat Italian Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Whole Wheat Italian Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta

This Whole Wheat Italian Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta is a hearty, flavorful dish that brings a little bit of Italy to your weeknight dinner table.

Ingredients

  • 8 oz whole wheat pasta
  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the whole wheat pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet with the sausage, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the chopped broccoli rabe, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli rabe is wilted but still bright green.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and reserved pasta water to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

The combination of spicy sausage, slightly bitter broccoli rabe, and nutty whole wheat pasta creates a beautifully balanced dish that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor.

Tip: For an extra kick, add an additional 1/4 tsp of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Healthy Italian Sausage and White Bean Chili

Healthy Italian Sausage and White Bean Chili

Warm up your evening with this hearty Healthy Italian Sausage and White Bean Chili, a twist on the classic that doesn’t skimp on flavor but keeps things light and nutritious.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb Italian turkey sausage, casings removed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian turkey sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  2. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in white beans, diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Serve hot.

The secret to this chili’s depth of flavor lies in the combination of Italian herbs and a hint of spice, perfectly complementing the creamy white beans and savory sausage.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch more red pepper flakes or serve with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Baked Italian Sausage with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Baked Italian Sausage with Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Nothing brings comfort like the hearty flavors of Italian sausage paired with the earthy sweetness of roasted Brussels sprouts. This one-pan wonder is a weeknight lifesaver that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage links (sweet or hot)
  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes until evenly coated.
  3. Spread the Brussels sprouts on one side of the prepared baking sheet. Place the Italian sausage links on the other side.
  4. Bake for 25 minutes, flipping the sausages and stirring the Brussels sprouts halfway through, until the sausages are browned and the sprouts are caramelized.

The magic of this dish lies in how the sausages’ juices mingle with the sprouts, creating a flavorful harmony that’s both rustic and refined.

Tip: For an extra crunch, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.

Healthy Italian Sausage and Artichoke Heart Salad

Healthy Italian Sausage and Artichoke Heart Salad

Looking for a salad that’s both hearty and healthy? This Italian Sausage and Artichoke Heart Salad is a vibrant mix of flavors that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and quartered
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and artichoke hearts.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper to create the dressing.
  4. Add the slightly cooled sausage to the salad bowl, drizzle with the dressing, and toss gently to combine.
  5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

The combination of savory sausage with the tangy artichoke hearts and creamy Parmesan creates a salad that’s anything but ordinary. It’s a perfect balance of flavors and textures that will make it a new favorite.

Tip: For an extra crunch, add some toasted pine nuts or croutons right before serving.

Light Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Light Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells

These Light Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells are a comforting yet healthy twist on a classic, perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 20 jumbo pasta shells
  • 1/2 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup chopped fresh spinach
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F. Cook pasta shells according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook Italian sausage until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped spinach, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in cooked sausage.
  4. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Fill each shell with the sausage mixture and place in the dish.
  5. Top shells with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake for 25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.

The combination of creamy ricotta, savory sausage, and fresh spinach stuffed into tender pasta shells makes this dish a standout. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a lighter version of stuffed shells without sacrificing flavor.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage while cooking.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve enjoyed exploring these 20 delicious and nutritious Italian sausage recipes! Each one offers a unique way to enjoy this flavorful ingredient while keeping health in mind. Don’t hesitate to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and spread the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy cooking!

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