How to Make the Best Sweet and Hot Italian Sausage at Home
About this Recipe
By: Rachel
Sweet and hot Italian sausage is the best of both worlds—a perfect balance of bold heat and mellow sweetness. Traditionally, Italian sausage comes in two varieties: “hot,” spiced with red pepper flakes, and “sweet,” flavored with ingredients like sweet basil or a hint of sugar.
What Is Italian Sausage?
Italian sausage is traditionally made from pork sausage, and is usually available as “hot” (containing red pepper flakes) or “sweet” (which omits the red pepper flakes, and may include ingredients like sweet basil or sugar). But why choose? I like to make my Italian sausage with plenty of red pepper flakes for heat, as well as brown sugar for sweetness.
This combination of flavors is what makes sweet and hot Italian sausage so irresistible. By blending spicy and sweet elements, you get a sausage that’s bold, balanced, and incredibly versatile in a variety of dishes.
Why Homemade Sweet and Hot Italian Sausage Is Worth It
Since we do not eat pork at home, it is a challenge to find high-quality, pork-free Italian sausage. Most varieties that are made with alternative proteins often include a porcine casing. Fortunately, it is easy to make homemade Italian sausage.
You can customize not just the protein you want to use, but the flavor profiles. Different varieties of Italian sausage, pork, or beef may contain dozens of different ingredients; you can try out various combinations until you find your favorite.
I highly recommend, though, that you not omit the fennel pollen, which adds a rich and unique flavor to the sausage.
Whether you’re craving a traditional Italian sausage—pork or beef-based—or a bold one, making your own gives you full control over the ingredients. Skip the mystery additives in store-bought versions and create a sausage that perfectly suits your dietary preferences and flavor profile.
This homemade Italian sausage is perfect for making sauces like this Red Sauce with Secret Vegetables recipe. This red sauce pairs wonderfully with your favorite pasta or can be used as a rich sauce for lasagna.
Choosing the Right Protein for Homemade Italian Sausage
I use ground beef as the base for my sausage, which is always easily available. I have also had good luck with ground turkey thighs (turkey breast is too dry on its own). You could try duck, bison, or any protein you have available. Keep in mind that when you’re making sweet and hot Italian sausage, the protein you choose will affect both the flavor and texture.
Some prefer the richness of traditional Italian sausage, while others opt for leaner options. The beauty of homemade sausage is that you’re in control. With the right seasoning mix, even unconventional proteins can deliver that classic Italian sausage flavor with your own twist.
Sweet and Hot Italian Sausage
Ingredients
- 3 pounds (1 ½ kilos) ground meat (pork is traditional; I use turkey thighs or beef)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon freshly-ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon dried sweet basil
- 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sweet or hot paprika (depending on whether you want your sausage to lean sweeter or hotter)
- 1 teaspoon ground fennel seed (you can purchase whole seeds and crush them in a mortar and pestle)
- ½ teaspoon fennel pollen
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1
- Add all ingredients to a stand mixer, and mix on low speed for about 2 minutes using the paddle attachment, or until well-combined. Alternatively, add all ingredients to a large bowl and mix with a rubber spatula.
Step 2
- If using immediately, heat a small amount of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown, drain, and add to tomato sauce.
Step 3
- If you prefer to freeze and save, divide the meat evenly into quart-sized freezer bags, and press flat. Stack in your freezer, and use within 3-4 months.
