10 Foolproof Cooked Ground Sausage Recipes That Never Fail

I’ve found that cooked ground sausage can effortlessly elevate everyday meals into something truly special. Whether it’s adding a burst of flavor to a pasta bake or bringing a pop of color when stuffed into peppers, the options are limitless. I’ve put together a list of 10 reliable recipes that highlight just how versatile this savory ingredient can be. Once you try these dishes, you’ll understand why sausage is a kitchen must-have. Are you ready to explore these tasty ideas?

Savory Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Savory Sausage Breakfast Casserole is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of ground sausage with eggs, cheese, and bread, creating a hearty meal perfect for starting your day. This casserole isn’t only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices.

It’s an ideal recipe for a weekend brunch or a family breakfast gathering, leaving everyone satisfied and fueled for the day ahead. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to be prepared the night before, making it a convenient option for early mornings or busy schedules.

By allowing the ingredients to meld overnight, the flavors intensify, resulting in a delicious, savory breakfast that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply want to treat your family to a special breakfast, this Savory Sausage Breakfast Casserole is sure to impress.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 6 slices of bread, cubed
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped onions (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until browned and fully cooked. Break it into crumbles with a spoon or spatula. Drain any excess fat from the skillet and set the sausage aside.

3. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined.

4. Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of the dish. Sprinkle the cooked sausage over the bread, followed by the optional bell peppers and onions if using.

Pour the egg mixture evenly over the entire dish, ensuring the bread is fully soaked. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.

5. Bake the Casserole: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the egg mixture is set. You can check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center; it should come out clean.

6. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Savory Sausage Breakfast Casserole.

Extra Tips

For a more flavorful casserole, consider adding other ingredients such as chopped spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes. These additions can enhance the nutritional value and taste of your dish.

If you prefer a spicier version, try using hot sausage or adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the egg mixture. Remember, this casserole can be prepared the night before and stored in the refrigerator; simply cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

Spicy Sausage and Cheddar Stuffed Peppers

Spicy Sausage and Cheddar Stuffed Peppers is a savory dish that combines the robust flavors of spicy ground sausage with the creamy richness of cheddar cheese, all encased in sweet bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a hearty dinner that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. The combination of spices from the sausage and the melty cheddar create a delightful contrast with the tender texture of the roasted peppers, making every bite a flavorful experience.

Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or entertaining guests, this recipe is both simple to prepare and impressive to serve.

The key to this dish lies in the balance of flavors and textures. The peppers serve as a colorful and flavorful vessel for the sausage and cheese mixture. You can choose to use green, red, yellow, or orange bell peppers, depending on your preference or availability. The spicy sausage adds a kick that can be adjusted to your liking, while the cheese provides a creamy counterpoint that melts beautifully inside the pepper.

This recipe can be served as a main course or a substantial side dish, and it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who enjoys bold flavors.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 pound spicy ground sausage
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will guarantee that it’s ready for the stuffed peppers once they’re assembled and ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Peppers: Wash and dry the bell peppers. Slice the tops off and remove the seeds and membranes inside. Arrange them in a baking dish with the open side facing up.
3. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Mix the Filling: Once the sausage is cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the cooked rice, drained diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Finally, fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Stuff the Peppers: Carefully spoon the sausage mixture into each prepared bell pepper, filling them generously. Top each stuffed pepper with the remaining cheddar cheese.
6. Bake the Peppers: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the cheese on top is golden and bubbly.
7. Serve: Once cooked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm as a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Extra Tips:

For a little extra flavor, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to the sausage mixture before stuffing the peppers. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for mild sausage instead of spicy, or mix in some sweet Italian sausage for a different flavor profile.

Additionally, you can substitute quinoa or couscous for rice if you want to try a different grain. Finally, to prevent the peppers from tipping over in the baking dish, you can trim a small slice off the bottom to create a flat base.

Classic Italian Sausage Pasta Bake

The Classic Italian Sausage Pasta Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the rich taste of Italian sausage with a medley of aromatic herbs, cheeses, and a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish brings the comforting essence of Italian cuisine straight to your table.

The blend of melted cheeses over penne pasta and savory sausage creates an irresistible meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Preparing this dish is relatively simple and can be done in just under an hour, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight meal. The sausage is cooked to perfection and combined with a robust tomato sauce, then layered with pasta and cheese before being baked to a bubbling, golden finish. This recipe serves 4-6 people, ensuring there’s plenty to go around.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the pasta dish.
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, following the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sausage Mixture: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent.
4. Cook the Sausage: Add the ground Italian sausage to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula. Season with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine with Marinara Sauce: Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet with the sausage mixture. Stir to combine and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Assemble the Bake: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta with the sausage and marinara sauce mixture. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
7. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve warm.

Extra Tips:

For added flavor, consider using a mix of hot and sweet Italian sausage to balance the spice levels to your preference.

If you prefer a creamier texture, mix a dollop of ricotta cheese into the pasta before baking.

To save time, you can prepare the sausage mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator, then assemble and bake the dish when ready to serve.

Additionally, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

Hearty Sausage and Bean Soup

This Hearty Sausage and Bean Soup is the perfect comfort food for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and satisfying. Packed with robust flavors and nutrient-rich ingredients, this soup isn’t only delicious but also filling. The ground sausage provides a savory base, while the beans and vegetables add depth and texture to the dish.

Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a hearty appetizer, this soup is sure to become a family favorite. The combination of ground sausage with protein-packed beans makes this dish both nutritious and flavorful. With the addition of aromatic herbs and spices, each spoonful bursts with a delightful blend of savory goodness.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family dinner or a small gathering. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6 people):

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving behind any rendered fat.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables in the remaining fat until the onion becomes translucent and the vegetables begin to soften, approximately 5 minutes.
3. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add in the diced tomatoes, cannellini beans, kidney beans, chicken broth, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Once the soup is done simmering and the flavors have developed, remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Extra Tips:

When cooking this Hearty Sausage and Bean Soup, consider using homemade chicken broth for an even richer flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, use spicy ground sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon during cooking. This soup is excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain the soup’s delicious flavor.

Zesty Sausage and Pepper Skillet

Zesty Sausage and Pepper Skillet is a delightful and vibrant dish that combines the robust flavors of seasoned ground sausage with the sweet and slightly tangy notes of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight meal, offering a balance of protein and vegetables in every bite. The combination of spices and fresh ingredients guarantees a meal that’s both filling and full of flavor, ideal for serving family or friends.

This recipe isn’t only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a go-to option for those hectic nights when you crave something hearty yet easy. The Zesty Sausage and Pepper Skillet can be enjoyed on its own or served with a side of rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the savory juices. The following recipe will guide you through the process of creating this mouthwatering dish for a serving size of 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by slicing the bell peppers and onion, and mincing the garlic. Having all ingredients ready will make the cooking process more efficient.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook them over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until they start to soften.
4. Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes to the vegetables. Stir well and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
5. Combine and Cook: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. Enjoy your Zesty Sausage and Pepper Skillet hot, with your choice of accompaniment.

Extra Tips:

When preparing the Zesty Sausage and Pepper Skillet, consider using a variety of colored bell peppers to not only add visual appeal but also a range of flavors.

If you prefer your dish spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño. For those looking to reduce fat content, you can use turkey sausage instead of traditional pork sausage.

Remember to taste and adjust the seasonings as needed, and feel free to experiment with additional herbs or spices to suit your palate.

Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

Sausage and spinach stuffed mushrooms are a delightful appetizer or side dish that combines the savory flavors of cooked ground sausage, fresh spinach, and creamy cheese, all nestled in a tender mushroom cap. This recipe is perfect for gatherings or family dinners, as it offers a rich taste and pleasing presentation.

The blend of ingredients creates a harmonious balance, with the sausage providing a hearty base, the spinach adding a fresh touch, and the cheese offering a creamy finish. The stuffed mushrooms aren’t only easy to prepare but also versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or dietary needs.

They can be served as an elegant starter at dinner parties or as a satisfying snack during casual get-togethers. With just a few simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can impress your guests with these flavorful bites that are sure to be a hit on any occasion.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 16 large white or cremini mushrooms
• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This guarantees the mushrooms will cook evenly and achieve a golden top.
2. Prepare the Mushrooms: Gently wipe the mushrooms with a damp paper towel to clean them. Remove the stems and set the caps aside on a baking sheet. Chop the stems finely and reserve them for the filling.
3. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan and set aside, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
4. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent. Add the chopped mushroom stems and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Combine the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetable mixture, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and cream cheese. Season with salt and pepper, then mix until well combined.
6. Stuff the Mushrooms: Spoon the sausage filling into each mushroom cap, packing it tightly and mounding it slightly. Arrange the stuffed mushrooms on the baking sheet.
7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the mushrooms from the oven and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Extra Tips:

For an added twist, consider substituting the Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. If you prefer a spicier dish, try using spicy Italian sausage instead of mild.

To make sure the mushrooms don’t become too soggy, avoid overfilling them with the stuffing mixture. Additionally, using a piping bag can help achieve a neat presentation. If preparing in advance, you can assemble the mushrooms and refrigerate them, then bake just before serving.

Creamy Sausage and Potato Chowder

Creamy Sausage and Potato Chowder is a warm and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This hearty chowder combines the savory flavors of ground sausage with the creamy goodness of potatoes, creating a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is both delicious and easy to make, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights.

This rich and flavorful chowder is made by simmering ground sausage with tender potatoes in a creamy broth. The addition of aromatic vegetables and herbs enhances the taste, while a touch of cream adds a luscious texture. Serve it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone feeling cozy and satisfied.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the leftover sausage drippings. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine Broth and Potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Add Cream and Sausage: Stir in the heavy cream, cooked sausage, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Serve: Once the chowder is heated through and reaches the desired thickness, remove it from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

For a thicker chowder, you can mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot before adding the cream. This will naturally thicken the soup without additional thickeners.

If you prefer a lighter version, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Additionally, feel free to customize the recipe by adding vegetables such as corn or carrots for added texture and flavor.

Keep in mind that ground sausage can vary in saltiness, so adjust the seasoning accordingly.

Sausage and Herb-Stuffed Acorn Squash

Sausage and Herb-Stuffed Acorn Squash is a delightful and hearty dish that marries the savory flavors of seasoned ground sausage with the sweetness of roasted acorn squash. This dish is perfect for a cozy fall or winter meal, bringing warmth and comfort to your dining table.

The combination of aromatic herbs and tender squash makes it not only flavorful but also visually appealing, with the squash serving as a natural bowl for the filling. This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people and is perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering.

The preparation is straightforward, with the acorn squash halves roasted to perfection and filled with a delicious mixture of sausage, herbs, and other complementary ingredients. Follow the steps below to create this satisfying meal that will surely become a favorite.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 3 medium acorn squashes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 pound ground sausage (Italian sausage recommended)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut each acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
2. Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves, cut side down, on a baking sheet. Roast them in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
3. Cook the Sausage Mixture: While the squash is roasting, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant. Stir in the thyme, sage, and rosemary.
5. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and chicken broth. Stir until the mixture is well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
6. Stuff the Squash: Flip the roasted squash halves over and evenly distribute the sausage mixture into each half, packing it slightly.
7. Bake Again: Return the stuffed squash to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the tops are golden and crispy.
8. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy as a main dish or a hearty side.

Extra Tips:

When choosing acorn squashes, look for ones that are deep green in color and feel heavy for their size, as these tend to be sweeter and have more flesh.

If you prefer a spicier dish, consider using hot Italian sausage or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling. For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely.

This dish can also be prepared in advance; simply roast the squash and prepare the filling ahead of time, then stuff and bake when ready to serve.

Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Burritos

Breakfast burritos are a delightful and savory way to start your day, combining the classic flavors of sausage, eggs, and cheese, all wrapped up in a soft tortilla. This dish is perfect for a family breakfast or brunch, providing a hearty and satisfying meal that’s simple to prepare and can be customized to suit individual tastes.

The combination of cooked ground sausage, fluffy scrambled eggs, and gooey melted cheese is sure to make these breakfast burritos a hit with everyone at the table.

This recipe serves 4-6 people and is versatile enough to adapt to any breakfast spread. You can add additional ingredients like bell peppers, onions, or even a dash of hot sauce to kick up the flavor. These breakfast burritos aren’t only quick to prepare but also easy to store and reheat, making them a convenient option for busy mornings.

Here’s how you can make these delicious Sausage, Egg, and Cheese Breakfast Burritos at home.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 6 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large flour tortillas
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter or cooking oil
• Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground sausage. Cook it thoroughly, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula until it’s fully browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and drain any excess fat on a paper towel-lined plate.

2. Prepare the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper until well combined.

3. Scramble the Eggs: In the same skillet you used for the sausage, add butter or cooking oil and heat over medium-low. Pour in the egg mixture and allow it to cook, gently stirring with a spatula.

Continue to cook until the eggs are softly scrambled and just set, about 3-5 minutes.

4. Assemble the Burritos: Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Evenly distribute the cooked sausage across the tortillas. Top with scrambled eggs and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese.

5. Wrap the Burritos: Fold in the sides of each tortilla, then roll them up tightly from the bottom to the top to enclose the filling completely.

6. Heat the Burritos (Optional): For a toasted exterior, place each burrito seam-side down in a clean skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until golden and crisp.

7. Serve: Serve your breakfast burritos warm with optional toppings like salsa, sour cream, or chopped cilantro for added flavor.

Extra Tips:

To guarantee your burritos are easy to roll and don’t split, warm the tortillas briefly before assembling. You can do this by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for about 20-30 seconds.

If you want to prepare these burritos in advance, wrap each individually in foil and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add-ins like sautéed vegetables to customize your breakfast burritos to your liking.

Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Shells is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage and creamy ricotta cheese, all nestled within tender pasta shells. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or small gatherings, offering a satisfying combination of savory and creamy textures. The dish is further enhanced by a flavorful marinara sauce and a sprinkle of melted cheese, creating a deliciously cheesy and aromatic experience.

To prepare this dish, you’ll start by cooking the ground sausage until it’s perfectly browned and crumbly. This guarantees that every bite of the stuffed shells is packed with savory goodness. The cooked sausage is then mixed with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and a touch of Parmesan to create a rich and cheesy filling. After stuffing the pasta shells with this delightful mixture, they’re laid out in a baking dish, covered with marinara sauce, and topped with a final layer of cheese before being baked to perfection. The result is a bubbling tray of stuffed shells that are both a feast for the eyes and a delight to the palate.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage
• 1 box (12 ounces) jumbo pasta shells
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pasta Shells: Begin by boiling the jumbo pasta shells in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions, until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground Italian sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, beaten egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Stuff the Shells: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Using a spoon, fill each pasta shell with the sausage and cheese mixture.
5. Assemble the Dish: Spread 1 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in a single layer over the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve: Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Extra Tips:

For an added depth of flavor, consider using a combination of sweet and hot Italian sausages in the filling. If you prefer a spicier dish, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.

To prevent the pasta shells from sticking together after boiling, drizzle them with a little olive oil while they cool. Additionally, if you have extra filling left over, you can freeze it for future use.

Enjoy your Sausage and Ricotta Stuffed Shells with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.