Sweet Italian sausage is a type of sausage that is a beloved staple in many cuisines. Known for its characteristic blend of fennel, garlic, and other warm spices, sweet Italian sausage has a distinctive sweet and savory flavor profile that makes it extremely versatile in the kitchen.
But what exactly is sweet Italian sausage and what is it best used for when cooking? Here is a complete guide to understanding this popular type of sausage and getting the most out of it in your recipes.
What is Sweet Italian Sausage?
Sweet Italian sausage is made from ground pork mixed with various seasonings that give it its signature flavor. The primary spices used are:
- Fennel seeds – imparts aroma and a licorice-like sweetness
- Garlic – provides pungency and aroma
- Paprika – adds a touch of warmth and red color
- Black pepper – contributes a subtle heat
- Anise seeds – supplies a slight licorice taste
- Cayenne or red pepper flakes – brings heat (optional)
In addition to these spices sweet Italian sausage contains salt sugar, and sometimes wine or vinegar for additional flavor complexity. The end result is a sausage that has a distinctive sweetness complemented by savory and spicy undertones.
Compared to hot Italian sausage, sweet Italian sausage is much milder in terms of spiciness, making it more versatile for a wide range of dishes. Hot Italian sausage contains more red pepper flakes and chili powder for extra heat.
What is Sweet Italian Sausage Best Used For?
The balanced sweet and savory flavor profile of sweet Italian sausage allows it to shine in many types of dishes, Here are some of the best uses for it
Pizza
Sweet Italian sausage is a classic pizza topping. The fennel and subtle heat pairs perfectly with the acidity of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Try topping your pizza with sliced or crumbled sweet sausage along with onions, peppers, olives, etc.
Pasta
Incorporate sausage crumbles or slices into pasta sauces or dishes for added texture and flavor. The seasoned meat complements rich tomato or cream-based sauces. Toss sweet sausage with pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni or orecchiette.
Soups and Stews
Add chunks or slices of sweet sausage to soups like minestrone, lentil, bean soups, and more. The sweet-savory flavor infuses the broth. Cook the sausage first before adding to the soup.
Rice and Grains
Sauteed sweet sausage goes great with rice dishes like risotto, rice pilaf or stuffed peppers. The spices in the sausage seasoning add lots of flavor.
Breakfast
Wake up to the aroma of sizzling sweet sausage patties or links. Eat as is, in breakfast sandwiches, with eggs, or as part of casserole bakes.
Appetizers
Slice sweet sausage thinly and skewer for easy appetizers. Thread onto skewers alternately with cheese cubes, fruits and vegetables. Or wrap in puff pastry for quick sweet sausage rolls.
Salads and Flatbreads
Top fresh salads with sliced grilled sausage for a protein boost and tasty crunch Sweet sausage also pairs well with flatbreads – add crumbled sausage as a topping before baking
Sausage and Peppers
The classic sausage and peppers dish combines sweet Italian sausage with sauteed bell peppers and onions. Serve in sandwiches or over pasta, rice or polenta.
Hearty Mains
Braise or grill links of sweet sausage whole and serve with hearty side dishes like creamy mashed potatoes, braised greens, or buttery cornbread.
Tips for Cooking with Sweet Italian Sausage
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Brown first – For the best flavor, always sear or brown raw sausage in a skillet before adding to dishes. This enhances the flavors.
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Simmer in sauce – Add slices or crumbles to tomato-based, creamy or wine sauces and let simmer for 15-20 minutes to infuse the sauce.
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Don’t overcook – Be careful not to overcook sweet sausage or it can become tough. Cook just until browned and cooked through.
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Remove casing – If using links, slit and remove the casing before cutting and cooking in recipes.
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Substitute flavors – For something different, use sweet Italian sausage in place of breakfast sausage. Or substitute chorizo or andouille if you want more heat.
Quick and Easy Recipe Ideas
Here are a few quick recipe ideas that highlight the delicious flavor of sweet Italian sausage:
- Sausage, kale and cannellini bean soup
- Baked ziti with Italian sausage and ricotta
- Sausage breakfast sandwiches with egg and cheese
- Pizza with Italian sausage, mushrooms and spinach
- Penne pasta in vodka sauce with sausage and peas
- Italian sausage and vegetable soup with pasta shells
- Sausage, apple and cheddar breakfast casserole
- Italian sub with sausage, peppers, onions and provolone
With its versatility in both sweet and savory dishes, sweet Italian sausage is one of the most useful ingredients to always have on hand. Keep a stash in the freezer so you can conveniently add its signature flavor and texture to all types of recipes, from easy weeknight meals to impressive dinner party mains.
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How To – Grill
- Thaw product prior to cooking.
- Preheat grill to medium-low.
- Add sausage.
- Hold the lid on and cook the links turning them often for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
- Thaw product prior to cooking.
- Spray a skillet with cooking spray.
- Add sausage.
- Turn the links often over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes, or until they are browned.
- Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Carefully add ½ cup water to skillet.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 12 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
How to Cook Sausage on the Stove
- Thaw product prior to cooking.
- Preheat air fryer to 390°F.
- Place sausage in a single layer in air fryer basket.
- Turn the sausage over once and cook for 9 to 11 minutes, until it is browned and the internal temperature reaches 160°F.
How To Video
For serious sausage lovers. 1
How to Cook Sweet Italian Sausage Links : Great Italian Eats
FAQ
What is the difference between sweet Italian sausage and regular Italian sausage?
What goes good with sweet sausage?
What is Italian sausage good for?
Is Italian sweet sausage healthy?