Are you tired of the same old routine on busy weeknights? Do you find yourself sacrificing flavor for convenience? Look no further! Italian sausage slow cooker recipes are here to save the day. With just a few simple ingredients and some quality time spent in the slow cooker, you can create mouth-watering meals that will impress even the pickiest of eaters.
From classic combinations like sausage and peppers to more adventurous pairings like sausage and lentils, there’s something for everyone in this collection of 20 flavorful Italian sausage slow cooker recipes. Whether you’re a busy professional or a harried parent, these easy-to-make dishes are perfect for any occasion. So why wait? Let the aroma of simmering sausage fill your home and make mealtime a breeze.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
A hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy evening. This recipe is easy to prepare and requires minimal supervision, making it ideal for busy days.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the sliced onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the slow cooker.
2. Place the Italian sausages on top of the vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes and olive oil. Pour the mixture over the sausages.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta in the Slow Cooker
This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you want a delicious meal with minimal effort. With its rich and creamy sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful sausage, this slow cooker recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni)
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, add the pasta to the slow cooker and stir until coated in the sauce.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Potato Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole filled with the flavors of Italy – sweet potatoes, savory sausage, and a blend of cheeses.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3-4 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they’re translucent.
3. Transfer the sausage and onion mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Add the sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
5. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Easy Italian Sausage and Lentil Stew
This hearty stew combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage with the comforting warmth of lentils, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. This easy recipe requires minimal prep and cooks in under an hour.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Cook sausage, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in lentils, broth, tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, add red wine (optional) and cook an additional 5 minutes.
Cooking Time: Under 1 hour
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Kale Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of Italian flavors, featuring juicy sausage and tender kale. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious and nutritious meal ready for your family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups kale leaves (fresh or frozen)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the olive oil, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Add the cooked sausage, chicken broth, kale, and diced tomatoes to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the creaminess of melted mozzarella cheese, all wrapped up in a bed of savory rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add diced tomatoes, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and White Bean Chili
This slow-cooked chili is a perfect blend of flavors, combining sweet Italian sausage with creamy white beans and aromatic spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, onion, garlic, beans, tomatoes, broth, oregano, and cumin to a slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Sausage and Mushroom Slow Cooker Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms, and Arborio rice for a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Transfer the sausage and mushroom mixture to a slow cooker. Add chicken broth, olive oil, Arborio rice, white wine (if using), garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Tomato Sauce
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Tomato Sauce Recipe
This hearty slow cooker recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party dish. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a rich and flavorful sauce to accompany juicy Italian sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (canned or fresh), diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place sliced Italian sausage, chopped onions, and minced garlic in the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chicken broth, dried basil, and dried oregano. Pour the mixture over the sausage and onions in the slow cooker.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Hearty Italian Sausage and Vegetable Stew
Hearty Italian Sausage and Vegetable Stew Recipe
This rich and flavorful stew is perfect for a cozy night in. With Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and aromatic spices, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer, then transfer the pot to the preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the vegetables are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Soup
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of Italian flavors, featuring sweet and savory sausage, soft gnocchi, and rich tomato broth. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup gnocchi
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, garlic, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and basil.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add gnocchi to the soup.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Spicy Italian Sausage and Quinoa Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines spicy Italian sausage, quinoa, and roasted vegetables for a delicious one-dish meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions using water or broth. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet and cook until tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, sausage mixture, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Zucchini Boats
Elevate your meal prep game with this flavorful and nutritious slow cooker recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch. This dish combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the tender sweetness of zucchinis.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Brown the Italian sausage in a pan over medium-high heat; drain excess fat.
4. Add cooked sausage, chopped onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and oregano to slow cooker.
5. Place zucchini boats on top of the sausage mixture.
6. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
7. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Italian Sausage and Spinach Slow Cooker Lasagna
A twist on the classic lasagna recipe, this slow cooker version combines the flavors of Italian sausage and spinach for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the spinach, crushed tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. In a slow cooker, combine the sausage mixture and olive oil. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Assemble the lasagna by layering the cooked noodles with the sausage mixture.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Cabbage Stew
A hearty and comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the flavors of Italian sausage, cabbage, and tomatoes for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, onion, garlic, and cabbage to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Sweet and Spicy Italian Sausage Slow Cooker Chili
Sweet and Spicy Italian Sausage Slow Cooker Chili: A hearty and flavorful chili that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with a spicy kick from Italian sausage, all slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Transfer the mixture to your slow cooker and add the diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, beef broth, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Eggplant Parmesan
This hearty slow cooker recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the convenience of a one-pot meal. Juicy sausage, tender eggplant, and creamy melted mozzarella come together in a deliciously satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the sliced eggplant to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Place the browned sausage and cooked eggplant in the slow cooker.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and cover for an additional 30 minutes to melt the cheese.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Herbed Italian Sausage and Barley Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Herbed Italian Sausage and Barley Soup! This comforting recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the richness of barley for a satisfying meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add barley, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Broccoli Rabe
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe, perfect for a chilly evening. Rich Italian sausage and tender broccoli rabe simmer together in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage
– 2 bunches broccoli rabe (about 2 cups)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker with the broccoli rabe, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and chicken broth.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Tangy Italian Sausage and Tomato Slow Cooker Stew
This hearty slow cooker stew combines the flavors of Italy with a tangy twist, perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day. With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this recipe is a weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes), cored and chopped
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic, tomatoes, chicken broth, red wine vinegar, and oregano. Stir well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknights with these 20 delicious Italian sausage slow cooker recipes! From classic combinations like sausage and peppers to hearty stews and comforting casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Try Creamy Italian Sausage Pasta, Spicy Italian Sausage and Quinoa Casserole, or Hearty Italian Sausage and Vegetable Stew. These easy and flavorful recipes are perfect for busy families, and can be customized to suit your tastes. So why wait? Get cooking with these mouthwatering Italian sausage slow cooker recipes today!
