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Baked Italian Sausage: A Delicious and Easy Meal Option


  • Author: Zlata

Ingredients

Scale

Essential Ingredients

  • 1 pound (4-6 links) Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra crispiness)

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for a deeper smoky flavor)
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes (adds sweetness when roasted)

Instructions

Step 1 – Preparing the Sausages

  • If frozen, thaw sausages overnight in the refrigerator.
  • Keep sausages whole to retain juiciness. Pricking them can cause them to dry out.

Step 2 – Setting Up the Oven

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
  3. (Optional) Place a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air circulation.

Step 3 – Baking the Sausages

  1. Place sausages on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each.
  2. (Optional) Toss sliced onions, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Spread around the sausages.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
  4. Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer:
    • Pork sausages: 160°F (71°C)
    • Chicken or turkey sausages: 165°F (74°C)
  5. (Optional) For a crispy finish, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end.


Notes

✔️ How Long Does It Take to Cook Italian Sausages in the Oven?

  • At 400°F (204°C): 20-25 minutes
  • At 375°F (190°C): 25-30 minutes
  • At 350°F (175°C) in foil: 25-30 minutes

✔️ Is It Better to Bake or Pan Fry Sausage?

  • Baking Pros: Even cooking, hands-free, less mess.
  • Pan-Frying Pros: Faster cook time, crispier texture.

✔️ How Long to Cook Sausages in the Oven at 180°C (350°F) in Foil?

  • 25-30 minutes, sealing in juices and flavors.
  • Wrap sausages individually or in small packets with vegetables for added moisture.

✔️ Storage & Reheating:

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap individually and store for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat in the oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
  • Reheat in an air fryer: Heat at 350°F for 3-5 minutes for a crispy texture.

✔️ Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with roasted potatoes, pasta, or in a sandwich.
  • Slice and toss into pasta sauces, salads, or soups.
  • Use as a pizza topping or in breakfast scrambles.
  • Pair with a side of garlic bread and marinara sauce for an Italian-inspired meal.