Baked Italian Sausage

Baked Italian sausage is a simple, flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re serving it with roasted veggies, pasta, or on a crusty hoagie roll, baking Italian sausage in the oven results in juicy, perfectly cooked links every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Effortless – Just season, bake, and enjoy—no frying required.
• Juicy & Flavorful – Oven baking keeps the sausages tender and juicy.
• Minimal Cleanup – One-pan meal with easy cleanup.
• Versatile – Serve with pasta, sandwiches, or roasted veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage links (mild, sweet, or spicy)
• Olive oil
• Bell peppers, sliced (optional)
• Onion, sliced (optional)
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Italian seasoning
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven – Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
2. Prepare the Sausage & Veggies – Place the sausages on the baking sheet. If using peppers and onions, toss them with olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, then spread them around the sausages.
3. Bake – Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping the sausages halfway through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
4. Broil (Optional) – For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.
5. Serve – Enjoy with pasta, sandwiches, or roasted potatoes.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-5
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Sausage Bake – Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes.
• Cheesy Sausage – Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella during the last 5 minutes.
• Sheet Pan Meal – Add cubed potatoes or zucchini for a complete one-pan dinner.
• Tomato Sauce Version – Bake with marinara sauce and serve over pasta.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze – Freeze cooked sausage for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
• Reheat – Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I bake frozen Italian sausages?

Yes, but add 10-15 minutes to the baking time and check for an internal temperature of 160°F.

How do I keep the sausages from bursting?

Prick the sausages lightly with a fork before baking to release excess steam.

Can I use chicken or turkey sausage?

Absolutely! Just check the internal temperature, which should be 165°F for poultry sausages.

What side dishes go well with baked sausage?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, pasta, or a fresh salad make great pairings.

Can I cook sausages with potatoes in the oven?

Yes! Slice potatoes, toss with olive oil and seasoning, and bake them alongside the sausages.

Should I cover the sausages while baking?

No, baking uncovered helps them brown and develop a better texture.

Can I add a sauce while baking?

Yes! Marinara or a honey mustard glaze works well for extra flavor.

How do I make crispy sausages?

Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for a golden, crispy exterior.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes! This method works with bratwurst, chorizo, or kielbasa.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Slice the veggies and arrange everything on the pan, then bake when ready.

Conclusion

Baked Italian sausage is a quick, delicious, and fuss-free meal that delivers juicy, flavorful sausages every time. Whether served with pasta, in a sandwich, or alongside roasted veggies, this dish is sure to be a family favorite. Try it today for an easy, satisfying dinner!

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