This Easy Stuffed Italian Sausage Recipe is a crowd-pleaser! Juicy sausage links are filled with tasty cheese and herbs, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
I love serving these sausages with a side of pasta or on a bun for a quick meal. Plus, they are super easy to make, so you can impress your family without breaking a sweat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose between mild or hot Italian sausage, depending on your spice preference. If you are looking for a leaner option, turkey sausage works well as a substitute.
Cheeses: Mozzarella provides that nice stretchy quality and flavor, while Parmesan adds a sharp bite. If you’re dairy-free, try using vegan cheese alternatives for stuffing.
Marinara Sauce: While store-bought marinara is quick and easy, homemade is always a great option if you have the time. Substitute with pesto for a twist in flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps sauté your garlic and adds flavor. Coconut oil or canola oil are good alternatives. Use a bit less if you prefer a lighter dish.
How Do You Stuff Sausages Without Making a Mess?
Stuffing sausages might seem tricky, but it can be simple with a few tips. The key is to create a pocket carefully, ensuring not to cut all the way through. Follow these steps:
- Take a sharp knife, hold the sausage steady, and make a gentle slit lengthwise.
- Use a spoon or your fingers to fill the pocket with the cheese mixture, pushing gently to avoid breakage.
- Don’t overstuff—leave a little room to allow the cheese to expand when cooking.
With patience, you’ll get the hang of it in no time!
Easy Stuffed Italian Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 Italian sausage links (mild or hot)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara or tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious stuffed Italian sausage recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook, including baking and broiling. In no time, you’ll have a flavorful dish ready to be served!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s nice and hot when your sausages go in!
2. Prepare the Sausages:
Take a sharp knife and carefully make a slit along the length of each sausage. You’re making a pocket but be careful not to cut all the way through—just enough to hold all that delicious filling!
3. Make the Cheese Filling:
In a small bowl, mix together the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. This will be the tasty filling for your sausages!
4. Stuff the Sausages:
Now, it’s time to stuff! Use your fingers or a small spoon to fill each sausage pocket with the cheese mixture. Don’t be shy, but don’t overstuff; you want them to close nicely.
5. Sauté the Garlic:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant—this will give your dish a wonderful flavor!
6. Assemble in a Baking Dish:
Place the stuffed sausages in an oven-safe baking dish. Pour the marinara sauce over the sausages and around in the dish, then sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on top to taste.
7. Bake:
Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Keep an eye on them—you’re looking for the sausages to be cooked through and the cheese to be bubbly!
8. Broil for a Perfect Finish:
In the last 5 minutes of baking, switch your oven to broil. This step will give the cheese a lovely golden brown color. Just make sure to watch them closely to avoid burning!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
When they’re done, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve hot with pasta, bread, or your favorite side. Enjoy your cheesy, flavorful stuffed Italian sausage!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can substitute with other types like chicken sausage for a leaner option or even turkey sausage if you prefer. Just make sure the casing is also suitable for stuffing!
How Should I Store Leftover Stuffed Sausage?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Stuffed Sausage?
Yes, you can freeze the stuffed sausages before baking! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed.
What Else Can I Stuff These Sausages With?
Feel free to get creative! You can add sautéed vegetables, different types of cheese (like cheddar or feta), or even spices and herbs to suit your taste. The sky’s the limit!
