If you're looking for a set-it-and-forget-it solution to whip up a delicious meal, the crock pot is your best friend. Turkey sausage, with its lower fat content and versatility, is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty dish without spending hours in the kitchen. Here are 5 easy crock pot turkey sausage recipes that you can prepare with minimal effort yet yield maximum flavor.
1. Turkey Sausage and Kale Soup
This hearty soup is packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a perfect meal for those chilly evenings.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb turkey sausage
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups chopped kale
- 1 can cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the turkey sausage in a skillet. Drain and set aside.
- Combine the sausage with the rest of the ingredients in the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
- Season to taste before serving.
💡 Note: This soup freezes well. Consider making a double batch for future meals!
2. Turkey Sausage and Peppers
A flavorful, quick-to-prepare dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta or served over rice.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked turkey sausage, sliced
- 3 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with parsley.
3. Turkey Sausage Jambalaya
A one-pot wonder that combines the flavors of Louisiana with the convenience of a slow cooker.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb turkey sausage, sliced
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place all ingredients except the rice in the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 7 hours, adding rice in the last 90 minutes of cooking time.
- Adjust seasonings to taste before serving.
4. Turkey Sausage Stuffed Peppers
An impressive dish that's both healthy and filling.
- Ingredients:
- 6 large bell peppers, tops cut off and seeded
- 1 lb turkey sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked quinoa or rice
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella (optional)
Instructions
- Mix sausage, quinoa, tomatoes, onion, zucchini, and seasoning in a bowl.
- Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture.
- Place in the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
- If using cheese, sprinkle on top and let melt before serving.
5. Turkey Sausage and Spinach Lasagna
This no-fuss lasagna is a comforting treat that's easy to make in your crock pot.
- Ingredients:
- 1 lb turkey sausage, browned
- 9 lasagna noodles, broken to fit (no boil)
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups spinach, fresh or thawed from frozen
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- Italian seasoning to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine ricotta, egg, spinach, and Italian seasoning.
- Layer sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, sausage, and cheese in the crock pot.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, ending with mozzarella on top.
- Cook on low for 4-5 hours until noodles are tender.
All of these recipes not only showcase the versatility of turkey sausage but also simplify the cooking process, making delicious meals accessible even to those with the busiest of schedules.
As you've seen, cooking with a crock pot allows you to prepare flavorful, nutritious dishes with minimal effort. These recipes are not only easy but also adaptable to various dietary preferences. Whether you're feeding a family, hosting a gathering, or meal prepping for the week, these crock pot turkey sausage recipes are sure to satisfy.
Can I use different types of sausage in these recipes?
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Yes, you can substitute turkey sausage with chicken, pork, or even plant-based sausages for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time if necessary.
How do I store leftovers from these recipes?
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Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Soups and stews can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Are these recipes freezer-friendly?
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Most of these recipes are freezer-friendly, especially the soups and stews. Freeze in meal-sized portions for easy defrosting and reheating.
What’s the best way to ensure the sausage is cooked correctly before adding to the crock pot?
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Always brown the sausage in a skillet until it’s cooked through. This step ensures the sausage retains its texture and flavor in the slow cooker.
