10 Classic Ground Sausage Suppers for Old Fashioned Comfort

There’s something so comforting about classic ground sausage suppers that brings back memories of family dinners. The savory aroma of a sausage and peppers skillet or the cozy feel of a hearty sausage and bean stew is hard to resist. These meals are more than just food; they’re nostalgic experiences that warm the soul. Are you ready to explore these timeless dishes and add a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen? Let’s embark on this delicious journey together.

Sausage and Peppers Skillet

Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a comforting classic that brings together the savory flavors of ground sausage with the vibrant sweetness of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner and can be served as a standalone meal or alongside pasta or rice.

The combination of spices in the sausage and the tender-crisp texture of the peppers creates a delightful harmony of flavors and textures that’s bound to please everyone at the dining table.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, offering a warm and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. The preparation involves simple ingredients that come together quickly, making it a great option for when you’re short on time but still want to serve something delicious and hearty.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this Sausage and Peppers Skillet is straightforward enough for anyone to master.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by slicing the onion and bell peppers, and mincing the garlic. Make sure all your ingredients are ready before you start cooking to guarantee a smooth process.

2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Once the sausage is fully cooked, add the sliced onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.

Then, add the sliced bell peppers and minced garlic. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender-crisp, approximately 5-7 minutes more.

4. Season and Simmer: Sprinkle the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper over the sausage and vegetable mixture. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.

Add the chicken broth and tomato paste, mixing well to create a sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.

5. Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy on its own or with a side of pasta or rice.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavors of this Sausage and Peppers Skillet, consider experimenting with different types of sausage, such as spicy Italian or sweet fennel varieties.

You can also add a splash of red wine or a squeeze of lemon juice to bring an extra depth of flavor. If you prefer a bit more heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added along with the other seasonings.

Make sure not to overcook the bell peppers to retain their vibrant color and crisp texture. Enjoy this versatile dish as a quick meal or as part of a larger dinner spread.

Classic Sausage and Potato Bake

Classic Sausage and Potato Bake is a comforting and hearty dish that brings together the robust flavors of ground sausage with the earthiness of potatoes. This dish is perfect for a family dinner, providing a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that are certain to please everyone at the table. The combination of savory sausage, tender potatoes, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful experience that warms the soul and fills the kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a family meal or a small gathering. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make this dish a favorite for busy weeknights, yet it’s flavorful enough to impress guests on special occasions. The sausage and potato bake can stand alone as a complete meal, or it can be paired with a crisp green salad or a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded dining experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to make certain it’s ready for baking once the preparation is complete.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground sausage. Cook and crumble it with a spatula until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, which will take about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, diced potatoes, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well mixed.
5. Bake the Dish: Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6. Add Cheese: After 30 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the bake. Return to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use waxy potatoes like Yukon Gold or red potatoes, as they hold their shape well during baking. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can use hot sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Additionally, feel free to customize the bake with other vegetables like carrots or zucchini, depending on your preference and what you have on hand.

Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew

This Hearty Sausage and Bean Stew is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something warm and filling. Ground sausage provides a rich and savory base, complemented by the creamy texture of beans and the fresh flavors of vegetables. The stew is simmered to perfection, allowing all the ingredients to meld together, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the way it brings out the best in each ingredient. The combination of ground sausage, beans, and a medley of vegetables creates an irresistible aroma that will fill your kitchen. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it an ideal option for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this stew is easy to prepare and certain to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Season the Mixture: Add the dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the vegetables. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices, allowing the flavors to develop for about 1 minute.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Return the browned sausage to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, drained cannellini beans, and chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine.
5. Simmer the Stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to guarantee the flavors meld together nicely.
6. Add Greens and Finish: Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and the Worcestershire sauce. Allow the stew to simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.
7. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the stew into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

When cooking this stew, feel free to customize the vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand.

For added depth of flavor, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of white wine after cooking the sausage. If you prefer a thicker stew, mash a portion of the beans before adding them to the pot. This will naturally thicken the broth.

For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage instead of regular ground sausage. Enjoy your hearty creation!

Savory Sausage and Rice Casserole

Savory Sausage and Rice Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together the rich flavors of seasoned sausage and the fluffiness of cooked rice in a delightful, baked medley.

This casserole is a perfect meal for family dinners or gatherings, offering a satisfying balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables all in one dish. The combination of savory ground sausage with aromatic herbs and spices melds seamlessly with tender rice and a medley of vegetables, creating a dish that’s both filling and flavorful.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it perfect for a small family or group of friends. The preparation is straightforward, and the ingredients are likely to be pantry staples, making this dish both convenient and versatile.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner option or a potluck contribution, Savory Sausage and Rice Casserole is sure to please and leave everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This guarantees your oven is ready to bake the casserole to perfection.
2. Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground sausage. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté these vegetables until they’re tender and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: Add the uncooked rice to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables, stirring for about 2 minutes. Then, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix everything well.
5. Season and Add Broth: Sprinkle the thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the sausage and rice mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
7. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
8. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
9. Rest and Serve: Allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the rice absorb any remaining liquid and makes serving easier.

Extra Tips

For a more robust flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bit of hot sauce to the sausage while it cooks.

If you prefer a spicier dish, use hot sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mix. Additionally, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, though you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount accordingly.

For a creamier texture, stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup or a dollop of sour cream before baking.

Creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta

Add a touch of Italian elegance to your dinner table with this rich and indulgent Creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish combines the savory flavors of ground sausage with the creamy richness of Alfredo sauce, all tossed with your favorite pasta.

It’s comfort food at its finest, and the best part is, it’s surprisingly simple to make. In just under an hour, you can have a restaurant-quality meal ready to impress your loved ones.

This classic ground sausage supper is perfect for a serving size of 4-6 people, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings. The combination of juicy ground sausage, a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta creates a harmony of flavors that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is approachable and yields fantastic results every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground sausage. Cook, breaking it into small pieces, until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Create the Alfredo Base: Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and let it cook for a few minutes until it starts to thicken.
5. Combine Cheese and Sausage: Lower the heat and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Toss Pasta and Season: Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta thoroughly with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the pasta to a serving dish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Extra Tips:

When cooking the pasta, ascertain it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when combined with the hot Alfredo sauce.

If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a hint of spice if desired.

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce before the cream. Enjoy your Creamy Sausage Alfredo Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Sausage and Cabbage Stir Fry

Sausage and cabbage stir fry is a delightful and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of ground sausage with the fresh, crisp texture of cabbage. This classic supper is perfect for those evenings when you crave something warm and satisfying yet easy to prepare. The combination of spices in the sausage, complemented by the mild sweetness of cabbage, creates a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.

Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this dish is bound to please everyone’s palate.

Not only is sausage and cabbage stir fry incredibly flavorful, but it also comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. This dish is versatile enough to be paired with various sides such as rice, noodles, or even crusty bread.

With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you can whip up a wholesome meal in no time. Follow the instructions below to create this comforting dish for 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering and preparing all your ingredients. Slice the cabbage and onion, mince the garlic, and set them aside. Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process much smoother.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
4. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the sliced cabbage, mixing well to combine with the sausage and onion. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Season the Stir Fry: Pour in the soy sauce and apple cider vinegar, and sprinkle the smoked paprika and black pepper over the mixture. Stir everything together, guaranteeing the cabbage and sausage are well-coated with the seasonings. Taste and add salt as needed. If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to taste.
6. Finish and Serve: Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the stir fry with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your sausage and cabbage stir fry warm, either on its own or with your choice of sides.

Extra Tips:

When making sausage and cabbage stir fry, it’s important to choose a good-quality sausage that suits your taste — whether it’s spicy, mild, or herbed.

You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and nutrition. If you’re trying to cut down on oil, consider using a nonstick skillet to reduce the amount needed for cooking.

For a gluten-free option, verify that the soy sauce you use is certified gluten-free. Experiment with different types of cabbage, like savoy or napa, to see which one you prefer in this dish.

Homestyle Sausage and Cornbread Dressing

Homestyle Sausage and Cornbread Dressing is a comforting dish that brings together the savory flavors of ground sausage with the hearty texture of cornbread. This classic Southern dish is perfect for any family gathering or holiday meal. The combination of spices from the sausage and the slightly sweet cornbread creates a delightful balance of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether served as a side dish or the main course, this dressing is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

The preparation of Homestyle Sausage and Cornbread Dressing is straightforward, making it an ideal dish for those looking to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The key to this recipe is using high-quality sausage and freshly baked cornbread, ensuring the stuffing is both moist and flavorful.

By incorporating a mix of aromatic vegetables and herbs, the dressing is elevated to a new level of deliciousness, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups crumbled cornbread
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cornbread: Begin by preparing cornbread according to your favorite recipe or using a pre-packaged mix. Allow it to cool completely, then crumble it into small pieces and set aside.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and brown the ground sausage until fully cooked, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and drain any excess fat.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and translucent. Add the dried sage, thyme, and black pepper, stirring to combine and release their aromas.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the crumbled cornbread, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and chicken broth. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Add Eggs and Butter: Stir in the beaten eggs and melted butter until the mixture is evenly moist. This helps bind the dressing together and adds richness to the dish.
6. Bake the Dressing: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the dressing is heated through.
7. Serve: Let the dressing cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, either as a standalone dish or alongside your favorite main course.

Extra Tips:

For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a handful of dried cranberries or chopped pecans to the mixture before baking. If you prefer a spicier version, use hot sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

To save time, prepare your cornbread a day in advance. This will also allow it to dry out slightly, which helps it absorb the flavors better when mixed with the other ingredients. Always taste the dressing mixture before baking to adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Rustic Sausage and Lentil Soup

The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity and depth of flavor. The ground sausage lends a savory richness, while the lentils provide a nutty undertone and a pleasing texture.

Vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions add a natural sweetness and depth, balancing the boldness of the sausage. The herbs and spices enhance the overall flavor, making each spoonful a delightful experience.

Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to prepare.

Ingredients (Serving Size: 4-6 people):

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by gathering all ingredients and prepping the vegetables. Chop the onions, dice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic cloves.
2. Cook the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Once the sausage is browned, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Add the Liquids and Lentils: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir in the dried lentils, thyme, basil, and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Extra Tips:

For a richer flavor, consider deglazing the pot with a splash of white wine after browning the sausage. This can add an extra layer of depth to the soup.

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can partially blend the soup using an immersion blender. Alternatively, for a spicier version, opt for hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Sausage-Stuffed Bell Peppers

Sausage-Stuffed Bell Peppers are a delightful, flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of ground sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The stuffed peppers aren’t only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients, making them a wholesome meal. The combination of spices and ingredients used in this recipe guarantees a tantalizing taste that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

The preparation of Sausage-Stuffed Bell Peppers is straightforward and requires minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The process involves hollowing out the bell peppers, cooking the sausage with aromatic vegetables and spices, and then stuffing the mixture back into the peppers. After baking, the peppers become tender and the flavors meld together beautifully. This dish is perfect for serving 4-6 people, providing a satisfying and hearty meal.

Ingredients (Serving size: 4-6 people):

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the outsides of the peppers with olive oil and place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Add the ground sausage to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
4. Mix the Filling: Once the sausage is cooked, stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined and heated through.
5. Stuff the Peppers: Carefully spoon the sausage mixture into each prepared bell pepper, packing the filling down gently. Place the stuffed peppers upright in the baking dish.
6. Bake the Peppers: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and sprinkle the tops of the peppers with shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Finish Baking: Return the peppers to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Extra Tips:

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture. If you prefer softer peppers, you can parboil them for 5 minutes before stuffing.

Additionally, to save time, use leftover rice or quinoa as an alternative to freshly cooked rice. These stuffed peppers can easily be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake, making them a great option for meal prep.

Traditional Sausage Gravy and Biscuits

Traditional sausage gravy and biscuits is a comforting and hearty dish that has been a staple in Southern cooking for generations. This classic breakfast dish features creamy, savory gravy made with ground sausage, served over fluffy homemade biscuits. It’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a cozy morning meal. The combination of rich sausage flavor with the soft, buttery biscuits is absolutely irresistible and bound to be a hit with your family or guests.

Creating this dish from scratch isn’t as intimidating as it might seem. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time. The key to a perfect sausage gravy lies in the balance of flavors and the consistency of the gravy, which should be thick enough to coat the biscuits but still pourable. Let’s explore the recipe.

Ingredients (serves 4-6 people):

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 6-8 homemade or store-bought biscuits

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the ground sausage and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally to guarantee even cooking. If the sausage releases a lot of grease, you may want to drain some, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan.
2. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the cooked sausage. Stir well to combine, allowing the flour to absorb the grease. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
3. Add the Milk: Gradually add the milk to the sausage and flour mixture, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer, and continue to cook for about 5-7 minutes until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
4. Season the Gravy: Season the gravy with salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Be sure to taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Prepare the Biscuits: While the gravy is cooking, prepare your biscuits according to package instructions or your favorite homemade recipe.
6. Serve: Split the warm biscuits in half and pour the hot sausage gravy over the top. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Extra Tips:

When making sausage gravy, using a high-quality sausage can make a big difference in flavor. Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage such as spicy, mild, or sage-flavored to find your preferred taste.

If the gravy becomes too thick, simply add a little more milk to reach the desired consistency. Additionally, the gravy can be made ahead of time and gently reheated, though it may thicken more as it sits, requiring additional milk when reheating.

Enjoy this comforting dish on a lazy weekend morning or any time you crave a classic Southern breakfast.