Getting Creative: 10 Delicious Ways to Use Dried Sausage

Dried sausage is a versatile ingredient that can add a flavor boost to many dishes. From salami to pepperoni, chorizo to soppressata, these cured sausages are packed with robust, savory flavor. But besides just slicing and eating them as-is, what are some creative ways to make the most of dried sausage? Read on for 10 tasty ideas for using this intensely flavored ingredient.

1. In Omelets or Frittatas

Chopped dried sausage makes an excellent addition to fluffy omelets or crustless frittatas. The bold spicy flavor pairs perfectly with eggs. Try adding crumbled chorizo, diced salami or pepperoni to your next breakfast egg dish. The meaty texture and smoky flavor they impart really takes these simple meals up a notch.

2. On Pizza

What’s better than pizza? Pizza with dried sausage, of course! Skip the boring pepperoni and opt for slices of spicy soppressata, Calabrese or chorizo instead. As the pizza bakes, the sausage will crisp up around the edges while releasing its delicious oils. This adds tons of flavor to the whole pie

3. In Pasta Dishes

Diced dried sausage is right at home in all kinds of pasta creations. It provides a meaty counterpoint to tomato-based pasta sauces. Or add it to creamy pasta for a hit of spice. Italian-style pasta dishes are especially complemented by the addition of sausage like soppressata, Genoa salami or pepperoni.

4. In Soups or Stews

Hearty dried sausages can infuse soups and stews with savory, smoky flavor. Try adding sliced chorizo to bean or lentil soups, or use hot Italian sausage in minestrone. The spices in the sausage will season the entire broth. Just be sure to remove the casing first if using whole links.

5. In a Breakfast Hash

For a stick-to-your-ribs breakfast, make a sausage hash with potatoes, peppers, onions and crumbled dried sausage. The spicy meat flavor takes the dish to the next level. Chorizo adds great flavor, but any spicy dried sausage will do. Top with a fried egg for extra richness.

6. In Cheese or Charcuterie Boards

Of course, dried sausage is a natural fit for cheese and charcuterie boards. Slice soppressata, Genoa salami, chorizo and other sausages thin, and arrange them with cheeses, olives, mustards and crackers for an impressive appetizer spread. Provide a knife for spreading soft sausage onto breads and crackers.

7. In Quiches or Stratas

The savory flavor of dried sausage works wonders in egg bakes like quiches and stratas. Try crumbling spicy chorizo or Italian sausage into the egg mixture before baking for tons of extra flavor. The sausage juices will also help keep the baked egg dish nice and moist.

8. In Sandwiches and Panini

Adding sliced dried sausage takes ordinary sandwiches up a notch. Layer soppressata or Genoa salami on hoagies for a hit of spice. Or stack pepperoni and mozzarella on focaccia before pan-frying for an Italian-style panini. The options here are nearly endless for custom-building flavorful sandwiches.

9. In Savory Bread Pudding

Making bread pudding for a crowd? Toss some diced dried sausage into the mix. The smoky, salty flavor it contributes contrasts nicely with the custardy interior and crisp top crust. Spanish chorizo, hot Italian or kielbasa all pair well here.

10. As a Snack

Of course, one of the simplest ways to enjoy dried sausage is to just slice it up and eat as is. Keep a stash in the fridge for quick and portable protein snacks. Certain varieties like pepperoni and salami don’t even require refrigeration after opening. So grab a piece whenever hunger strikes for an instant flavor hit.

With its intensely meaty, spicy qualities, dried sausage can transform the flavor profile of many dishes. Next time you’re cooking, think beyond just slicing it up plain. With a little creativity, the options for infusing recipes with its robust flavor are nearly endless. Whether used in small doses or as the star of the show, dried sausage always delivers big taste.

Here are some other fun ways to enjoy dried sausage:

• Mixed into scrambled eggs or breakfast burritos

• Layered into casseroles or lasagna

• Added to potato salad for a picnic or BBQ

• Rolled up inside pinwheels or croissants

• Mixed into stuffing or dressing for poultry

• Added to macaroni and cheese for a grown-up twist

• Baked into hearty meatloaves or meatballs

• Served alongside creamy dips as an appetizer

• Added to flatbreads or pizza crusts before baking

• Tossed with roasted veggies for extra flavor

• Layered into hearty sandwiches and panini

• Mixed into rice for a zesty one-pot meal

• Served alongside cheese for an instant charcuterie board

• Enjoyed as-is for a protein-packed snack on the go

The next time you spy soppressata or pepperoni in your fridge or at the market, think beyond basic slicing. With its concentrated savory flavor, dried sausage can transform all kinds of dishes when used creatively.