10 Smart Leftover Ground Sausage Recipes to Reduce Waste

Whenever I have leftover ground sausage, I see it as a chance to get creative in the kitchen. Transforming it into new dishes not only reduces waste but also lets me enjoy a variety of flavors. From savory casseroles to spicy stuffed peppers, the possibilities are endless. Want to make the most of your leftovers and impress your family with delicious meals? Let’s explore these culinary ideas together.

Savory Sausage Breakfast Casserole

Start your day with a hearty and delicious Savory Sausage Breakfast Casserole that’s perfect for using up leftover ground sausage. This flavorful dish combines the rich taste of sausage with eggs, cheese, and vegetables, creating a satisfying breakfast or brunch option for the whole family.

Ideal for a weekend morning or a special occasion breakfast, this casserole can be prepared ahead of time and baked right before serving, making it both convenient and scrumptious.

This casserole isn’t only easy to make but is also highly customizable. You can add your favorite vegetables, choose your preferred type of cheese, and even experiment with different types of bread to create a dish that suits your taste.

The combination of savory sausage, creamy eggs, and melted cheese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Follow the recipe below to make a Savory Sausage Breakfast Casserole that serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound leftover ground sausage
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups milk
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 cups cubed bread (day-old or slightly stale works best)
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and cook the leftover ground sausage until it’s browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving a small amount of the drippings.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
4. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano until well combined.
5. Assemble the Casserole: In the prepared baking dish, layer the cubed bread, cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring all the bread cubes are soaked. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. Bake the Casserole: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown and the casserole is fully set.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy your savory breakfast!

Extra Tips: For best results, use slightly stale bread, as it will absorb the egg mixture better without becoming too soggy. You can prepare this casserole the night before and store it in the refrigerator, covered, to bake fresh in the morning.

Feel free to customize your casserole by adding mushrooms, spinach, or different cheeses like mozzarella or Swiss. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage for an extra kick.

Spicy Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Spicy Sausage Stuffed Peppers are a delicious and satisfying dish that combines bold flavors and vibrant colors. This dish is perfect for utilizing leftover ground sausage, creating a meal that’s both economical and mouth-wateringly tasty. The spicy sausage pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bell peppers, creating a harmonious balance that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a hearty appetizer, this dish is sure to amaze.

The preparation of Spicy Sausage Stuffed Peppers involves hollowing out fresh bell peppers and filling them with a flavorful mixture of cooked sausage, rice, tomatoes, and spices. Once stuffed, the peppers are baked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.

This dish isn’t only easy to prepare but also versatile, as you can adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preference. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it a family-friendly option for dinner.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 pound ground spicy sausage
• 6 large bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to make certain it’s ready for baking once your peppers are prepared.
2. Prepare the Bell Peppers: Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Lightly brush the exterior of the peppers with olive oil and set them in a baking dish.
3. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground spicy sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spatula. Once cooked, drain any excess fat.
4. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
5. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed onions and garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
6. Stuff the Peppers: Generously fill each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, pressing down to make sure they’re tightly packed. Top each pepper with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake the Peppers: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
8. Serve and Garnish: Once cooked, remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Extra Tips

When making Spicy Sausage Stuffed Peppers, consider using a mix of different colored bell peppers for an appealing presentation. If you prefer a milder dish, substitute the spicy sausage with a milder version or add more cheese to balance the heat.

Additionally, if you have extra filling left, it can be saved and used as a delicious topping for baked potatoes or as a filling for wraps. Adjust the spices according to your taste preference, and feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist.

Cheesy Sausage and Pasta Bake

Cheesy Sausage and Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of ground sausage with the comforting texture of pasta, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for using up leftover ground sausage and is sure to satisfy the whole family.

With its ooey-gooey cheese topping and savory sausage blend, this dish is both a crowd-pleaser and a cook’s favorite for its simplicity and ability to be made in advance. Ideal for serving 4-6 people, this Cheesy Sausage and Pasta Bake involves minimal prep work and bakes in under an hour, making it a great option for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner.

The combination of pasta, sausage, and cheese creates a balanced dish with plenty of flavors, while the baking process melds everything together into a bubbly, golden masterpiece. Whether you’re using fresh ingredients or cleaning out the fridge, this recipe is versatile enough to accommodate various cheese types and pasta shapes, guaranteeing a delicious meal every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 12 ounces pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: Fresh basil for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C), making sure it’s hot enough to bake the dish evenly.
2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once hot, add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned sausage, marinara sauce, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
5. Assemble the Bake: Transfer the pasta and sausage mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then top it with the remaining mozzarella and cheddar cheeses, followed by the Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top is golden brown.
7. Serve and Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, for an added burst of flavor.

Extra Tips:

When preparing this Cheesy Sausage and Pasta Bake, feel free to experiment with different cheese combinations to suit your taste preferences. If you have leftover vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, consider adding them for extra nutrition and flavor.

Additionally, this dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge; simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold. Finally, confirm your pasta is cooked al dente, as it will continue to soften while baking.

Hearty Sausage and Vegetable Soup

Transform your leftover ground sausage into a comforting and nutritious meal with this Hearty Sausage and Vegetable Soup. It’s a perfect way to use up those extra ingredients in your refrigerator while creating a flavorful dish that warms the soul.

This soup combines the richness of sausage with the freshness of a variety of vegetables, making it a wholesome option for any day of the week. It’s ideal for a family dinner or a cozy night in, serving around 4-6 people.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—you can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it customizable to your tastes and preferences. The ground sausage adds a robust, savory element, balancing beautifully with the sweetness of carrots and the earthiness of potatoes.

With each spoonful, you’ll experience a medley of flavors and textures that make this soup a go-to for both its taste and ease of preparation.

Ingredients (serves 4-6 people):

• 1 pound leftover ground sausage
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 large potato, peeled and diced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients and preparing the vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots and zucchini, chop the celery, and dice the potato.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the leftover 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.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add a bit more olive oil if necessary. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add Vegetables: Stir in the carrots, celery, potato, and zucchini. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to start softening.
5. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the pot, along with the can of diced tomatoes (including liquid), chicken broth, dried thyme, and oregano. Stir everything together.
6. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally.
7. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Extra Tips:

When making this soup, feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on what you have available. Adding green beans, spinach, or kale can increase the nutritional value and add more depth of flavor.

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the potatoes with a spoon against the side of the pot to create a creamier texture. Additionally, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for a convenient meal later on.

Just remember to adjust the seasoning after reheating, as flavors can change over time.

Sausage and Potato Skillet Hash

Sausage and Potato Skillet Hash is a hearty, comforting dish that perfectly utilizes leftover ground sausage. This dish combines the savory flavors of browned sausage with tender potatoes, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, this skillet hash is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of the day.

The key to a great Sausage and Potato Skillet Hash is in the balance of flavors and textures. By using a mix of colorful bell peppers and onions, you introduce a sweet and slightly tangy contrast to the rich sausage. The potatoes add a wonderful earthiness and help to make the dish filling.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family meal or for those who enjoy having leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 pound leftover ground sausage
• 4 medium-sized potatoes, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 3 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by washing and dicing the potatoes into small cubes. Chop the onion, and dice the bell peppers. Mince the garlic cloves and slice the green onions if using for garnish.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the leftover ground sausage. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Potatoes: In the same skillet, add the olive oil and increase the heat to medium-high. Add the diced potatoes and cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re golden brown and tender.
4. Add Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium, then add the chopped onion, red and green bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet with the potatoes. Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
5. Combine: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, mixing it with the potatoes and vegetables. Cook everything together for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Serve: Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired, and serve hot.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, use a cast-iron skillet as it retains heat well and helps in browning the potatoes evenly.

If you prefer a spicier hash, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

To save time, you can parboil the potatoes before adding them to the skillet, which will speed up the cooking process.

Finally, this dish pairs wonderfully with a side of eggs cooked to your preference, making it a complete meal.

Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms

Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful appetizer or side dish that can easily be made with leftover ground sausage. These mushrooms are packed with flavor, combining the savory taste of sausage with melted cheese and breadcrumbs for a deliciously satisfying bite.

Whether you’re hosting a party or just looking for a quick and tasty dish, these stuffed mushrooms are a perfect choice. The recipe is simple to follow and can be adjusted with various spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences.

The rich and juicy ground sausage is complemented by the earthiness of the mushrooms, making every bite a treat. The filling is savory and cheesy, while the mushroom caps provide a tender and juicy vessel to hold the flavorful stuffing.

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving, making it convenient for entertaining or enjoying as a snack. With just a handful of ingredients, you can transform leftover sausage into a gourmet treat that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 1 pound large button or cremini mushrooms
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the stuffed mushrooms.
2. Prepare the Mushrooms: Clean the mushrooms thoroughly with a damp paper towel to remove any dirt. Carefully remove the stems and set the mushroom caps aside. Finely chop the stems for the stuffing mixture.
3. Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground sausage. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sausage is browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
4. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, chopped mushroom stems, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, cream cheese, parsley, garlic, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
5. Stuff the Mushrooms: Use a spoon to fill each mushroom cap generously with the sausage mixture, pressing it down slightly to guarantee it stays in place.
6. Bake the Mushrooms: Place the stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased with olive oil. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over the tops of the stuffed mushrooms to help them brown. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the mushrooms are tender and the filling is golden brown.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional parsley if desired.

Extra Tips:

For a crunchier topping, consider sprinkling some additional breadcrumbs on top of the stuffed mushrooms before baking. You can also experiment with different cheeses such as mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

If you prefer a spicier filling, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture. These mushrooms are best served warm, but they can also be enjoyed at room temperature.

Additionally, if you have any leftover filling, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days and used in other recipes, such as an omelet or stuffed bell peppers.

Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a family breakfast or for meal prepping. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings and condiments, making each burrito unique.

Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed breakfast or a comforting brunch option, these Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos are sure to satisfy.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 1 pound ground sausage
• 8 large eggs
• 1/4 cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 large flour tortillas
• Salsa (optional)
• Sour cream (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula. Once cooked, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the diced onions and bell peppers until they’re soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Scramble the Eggs: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper. Pour the egg mixture into a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Stir gently with a spatula until the eggs are softly scrambled and fully cooked.
4. Assemble the Burritos: Lay each tortilla flat and evenly distribute the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, scrambled eggs, and shredded cheddar cheese onto each one. If desired, add salsa and sour cream.
5. Roll the Burritos: Fold in the sides of each tortilla and roll them up tightly from the bottom, enclosing the filling completely.
6. Warm the Burritos: Place the burritos seam-side down in a clean, dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden brown and slightly crispy.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve immediately. Enjoy your Sausage and Egg Breakfast Burritos with additional salsa or sour cream on the side if desired.

Extra Tips: To save time in the morning, you can prepare the sausage and vegetable filling the night before. Simply store it in the refrigerator and heat it up before assembling the burritos.

Additionally, if you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the scrambled eggs. If you’re making these burritos for meal prep, wrap each one individually in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before eating.

Sausage and Spinach Quiche

Sausage and Spinach Quiche is a delightful and savory dish perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a light dinner. This recipe is an excellent way to use up any leftover ground sausage you might’ve in your fridge. The combination of rich, flavorful sausage and nutritious spinach creates a harmonious filling that’s both satisfying and delicious.

The quiche’s creamy custard base binds the ingredients together, creating a dish that’s both hearty and elegant. A golden, buttery crust envelops the filling, providing a perfect contrast to the creamy interior. The quiche can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for gatherings or busy mornings.

With a serving size of 4-6 people, this recipe is sure to please family and friends alike. It’s versatile enough to accommodate various dietary preferences, and additional ingredients can be easily added to tailor the dish to your liking.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

• 1 pre-made pie crust (9-inch)
• 1 cup cooked ground sausage
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will guarantee that your quiche bakes evenly and the crust turns golden brown.
2. Prepare the Crust: Place the pre-made pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently against the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the crust to prevent bubbling during baking.
3. Cook the Sausage and Spinach: In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until well combined. This mixture will form the custard base of the quiche.
5. Assemble the Quiche: Evenly spread the cooked sausage and spinach mixture over the bottom of the prepared crust. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Carefully pour the egg mixture over the fillings, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.
6. Bake the Quiche: Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any overflow and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the center of the quiche is set and the top is lightly golden. A knife inserted into the center should come out clean.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the quiche from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the quiche set further and make slicing easier.

Extra Tips:

For a crispier crust, you can blind bake the pie crust before adding the fillings. Simply line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans, then bake for 10 minutes at 375°F (190°C). Remove the weights and parchment before adding the fillings.

Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients like mushrooms, bell peppers, or onions to add more flavor and texture. Additionally, if you prefer a crustless quiche, simply omit the pie crust and pour the fillings directly into a greased pie dish.

Sausage and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes

Sausage and rice stuffed tomatoes make a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground sausage with the juicy sweetness of ripe tomatoes. This dish is perfect for utilizing leftover ground sausage, and it makes for a hearty meal that can be enjoyed by the entire family.

The stuffed tomatoes aren’t only visually appealing but also offer a delightful contrast of textures and flavors with every bite. Whether served as a main course or a side dish, these stuffed tomatoes are bound to impress your guests and elevate your meal experience.

The recipe for sausage and rice stuffed tomatoes is straightforward and can easily be prepared in under an hour. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want to serve something a bit more special without spending too much time in the kitchen.

The combination of sausage and rice provides a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables all in one dish. This recipe yields enough for 4-6 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or small gatherings.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

• 6 large ripe tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 pound leftover ground sausage
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Tomatoes: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides using a spoon, creating a hollow cavity. Be careful not to pierce through the bottom. Reserve the scooped-out tomato flesh in a bowl.

2. Cook the Sausage Filling: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. Add the leftover ground sausage, cooking until it’s browned and fully cooked through.

Stir in the reserved tomato flesh, cooked rice, oregano, basil, and salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

3. Stuff the Tomatoes: Place the hollowed tomatoes in a baking dish. Fill each tomato with the sausage and rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack the stuffing. Sprinkle the tops with grated Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake: Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the tomatoes are tender and the cheese is golden brown on top.

5. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Extra Tips:

When choosing tomatoes for this dish, opt for firm and ripe ones to guarantee they hold their shape during baking. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture.

Additionally, you can substitute the Parmesan cheese with mozzarella or another cheese of your preference for a creamier texture. If you find that the tomatoes are leaning during baking, you can prop them up with crumpled foil for stability.

Enjoy your sausage and rice stuffed tomatoes with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Sausage Pizza Rolls

If you find yourself with leftover ground sausage and are looking for a fun and tasty way to use it up, Sausage Pizza Rolls are a fantastic option. These bite-sized treats are perfect for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or even a quick lunch. With a crispy exterior and a savory, cheesy filling, these rolls are sure to be a hit with both adults and children alike.

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and versatility, allowing you to customize the fillings to suit your taste preferences. Sausage Pizza Rolls are fundamentally pizza in a convenient roll form, making them easy to serve and eat. The combination of spicy sausage, gooey cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings, all wrapped in a soft dough, makes each bite a delightful experience.

This recipe serves 4-6 people and can be prepared in under an hour, making it a great choice for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re using store-bought dough or making your own, this dish is guaranteed to become a new family favorite.

Ingredients for Serving Size of 4-6 People:

• 1 pound of leftover ground sausage
• 1 can of refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 cup of marinara or pizza sauce
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup of sliced pepperoni (optional)
• 1/4 cup of chopped bell peppers (optional)
• 1/4 cup of sliced black olives (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
• Olive oil for brushing
• Flour for dusting

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat while you prepare the pizza rolls.
2. Prepare the dough: Lightly flour a clean surface and roll out the pizza dough to a rectangle, approximately 12×15 inches. The dough should be even in thickness to guarantee even cooking.
3. Cook the sausage: In a medium skillet over medium heat, cook the leftover ground sausage until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside to cool slightly.
4. Assemble the rolls: Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the rolled-out dough, leaving about a 1-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese over the sauce, followed by the cooked sausage. Add any optional toppings like pepperoni, bell peppers, or olives. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning evenly over the top.
5. Roll the dough: Starting from one of the longer edges, carefully roll the dough tightly into a log. Pinch the seam to seal the roll and guarantee the filling stays inside.
6. Cut into rolls: Using a sharp knife, slice the log into 1-inch thick rolls. You should have about 12-15 rolls.
7. Prepare for baking: Place the rolls cut-side up on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
8. Bake the rolls: Transfer the baking sheet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rolls are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
9. Serve: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving. They can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Extra Tips:

For best results, make sure the dough isn’t too cold before rolling it out, as this can make it difficult to handle. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add other favorite pizza toppings like mushrooms or onions.

If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture. Leftover rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven to maintain their crispiness.