Best Italian Sausage Side Dishes- 10 Tasty Ideas
When choosing a side dish for Italian sausages, you need something that will complement its flavor, not overpower it. At the same time, you don’t want a side dish that is too bland.
This is why you need to keep a few things in mind. First, think about the flavors of the sausage. Is it spicy? Is it mild? Is it sweet or savory? Knowing the flavor profile will help you choose a side dish that will complement it.
Another thing to keep in mind is the texture. Is it smooth or chunky? If it’s chunky, you’ll want to avoid side dishes that are also chunky. Instead, opt for something smooth like mashed potatoes or polenta.
I’ve spent hours in the grocery store aisle, scanning the shelves for something that will go well with my Italian sausage. If you’re facing the same dilemma, don’t worry; I’ve done the hard work for you. Take a look.
Side Dishes for Italian Sausage
- Parmesan risotto
- Mac and cheese
- Polenta
- Cornbread
- Steamed rice
- Roasted potatoes
- Green salad
- Buttered noodles
- Caprese salad
- Oat rolls
Parmesan risotto
Parmesan risotto is the perfect side dish for Italian sausage. The rich, creamy texture of the risotto pairs perfectly with the hearty flavors of the sausage, and the Parmesan adds a touch of elegance to the dish.
The key to making a delicious Parmesan risotto is to use Arborio rice, which is a short-grain rice that absorbs flavors well. To make the risotto, first, sauté the rice in olive oil until it is evenly coated. Then, add a rich broth and mushrooms, and simmer until the rice is tender.
Finally, stir in some Parmesan cheese and white wine, and serve immediately. This dish is sure to impress your guests!
Mac and cheese
Mac and cheese is a versatile dish that goes well with a variety of main courses. When paired with Italian sausage, the rich flavor of the pasta pairs well with the spice of the sausage. It is also a good option for those who are looking for a creamy dish to offset the richness of the sausage.
For a truly indulgent experience, try using white cheddar cheese in your mac and cheese. The sharp flavor of the cheese will help to cut through the richness of the pasta and sausage. Mac and cheese is also an easy dish to make, making it a good option for busy weeknights.
Polenta
Polenta is a versatile dish that can be served as a side or a main course. It’s quick and easy to make and can be customized with a variety of flavorful toppings. Polenta is typically made with cornmeal, water, and salt, and is cooked until it is thick and creamy. It can be served plain or topped with Parmesan cheese, sauteed vegetables, or meat sauces.
Polenta goes particularly well as a side dish for Italian sausage. The sausage adds a hearty flavor to the Polenta, and the creamy Polenta pairs well with the savory toppings. You can also experiment with other tasty toppings, such as roasted tomatoes, mushrooms, or onions.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a delicious and versatile side dish that pairs well with Italian sausage. It is typically sweet, savory, and crunchy on the outside with a crumbly and moist inside. The unique texture of cornbread complements the richness of the sausage while also providing contrast in flavor.
Cornbread can be enjoyed as is or dressed up with butter, honey, or jam.
Steamed rice
Steamed rice is the perfect side dish for Italian sausage. It’s simple, versatile, quick, and easy to make. Plus, it’s fluffy and soaks up all the flavors of the sausage.
Basmati rice is my favorite type of rice to use for this dish, but you can use any type of rice you like. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions. Once the rice is cooked, add a little butter or olive oil to give it a nice flavor. Then, simply add your sausages and enjoy!
Roasted potatoes
Roasted potatoes are the perfect side dish for Italian sausage. The crispy skin and fluffy interior of the potatoes pair perfectly with the rich, flavorful sausage. Roasting the potatoes with herbs and olive oil gives them a simple, yet sophisticated flavor that is sure to please any palate.
Plus, roasted potatoes are incredibly easy to make. Simply toss them in some olive oil and your favorite herbs, then roast in a hot oven until they are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
Green salad
Green salad is a popular side dish for Italian sausage because it is fresh and light. The combination of greens, vegetables, and fruits provides a variety of nutrients that complement the sausage.
A green salad also goes well with Italian sausage because it is easy to customize with your favorite dressing. You can add a variety of different vegetables and fruits to the salad to create a unique flavor combination. Top it off with your favorite dressing and you have a flavorful side dish on your hands.
Buttered noodles
Buttered noodles make the perfect side dish for Italian sausage. The egg noodles are delicious on their own, but when you add some butter, herbs, and seasonings, they really take on a new level of flavor.
Buttered noodles also have a great texture that compliments the sausage. The fat in the sausage helps to coat the noodles and keep them from sticking together. And the acidity in the tomato sauce helps to balance out the richness of the butter.
Caprese salad
Caprese salad is a simple dish made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. It is light and refreshing, making it the perfect side dish for Italian sausage.
The acidity of the tomatoes helps to balance out the richness of the sausage, and the mozzarella provides a creamy contrast to the spice of the sausage. The basil adds a touch of sweetness and aromatic quality that ties the whole dish together.
Caprese salad is a perfect example of how a few simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and well-balanced meal.
Oat rolls
Oat rolls make a delicious and versatile side dish. They are soft and tender, with a fluffy texture that is perfect for mopping up flavorful sauces. Oat rolls can be plain or studded with raisins or nuts, and they can be brushed with butter or glazed with brown sugar. When served warm, they are a tasty complement to any meal.
Oat rolls also make a great base for other dishes, such as Italian sausage. The rich flavors of the sausage are enhanced by the sweetness of the rolls, and the two work together to create a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are used to make Italian sausages?
Ingredients used to make Italian sausages vary, but most recipes call for pork, beef, or veal. Some recipes also call for fennel, garlic, or other spices.
Should I cook Italian sausages in butter or oil?
Cooking Italian sausages in butter or oil is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer to cook them in butter because it gives them a richer flavor. Others prefer to cook them in oil because it gives them a more subtle flavor.
What is sausage and peppers?
Sausage and peppers is a classic Italian dish that is made with sausage, peppers, and onions. It is a hearty and filling meal that is perfect for wintertime. The sausage and peppers are cooked in a tomato sauce, which gives them a rich and flavorful flavor.
Conclusion
There are many different side dishes that you can serve with Italian sausage. Each dish has its own unique flavor and texture that pairs well with the sausage.
Roasted potatoes, green salad, buttered noodles, Caprese salad, and oat rolls are all excellent choices for a side dish to go with your Italian sausages. Whichever dish you choose, it is sure to be a delicious addition to your meal.