This simple homemade Italian sausage seasoning makes ground sausage that tastes fresher and more authentic than most supermarket varieties.
This seasoning is a kitchen staple. If you want recipes that use this seasoned sausage, look for classic dishes such as Italian sausage and peppers or an Italian ring sausage.
Why make your own ground sausage
Making homemade Italian sausage is quick and gives you control over flavor and quality. Store-bought sausages often contain additives or a processed “hot dog” taste that some people dislike. When you season your own ground pork, you can adjust the fennel, garlic, salt and other flavors to suit your family’s preferences.
Some cooks make and stuff sausages at home once a year or on special occasions. When you control the ingredients and ratios, you can easily tailor the blend—use less fennel for a milder, less licorice-forward profile, or add more garlic and cheese for a richer result.
Ingredient notes and substitutions
- Ground pork. Supermarket ground pork usually runs about 70–80% lean, which is ideal for sausage. The fat adds flavor and a juicy texture.
- Fennel. Fennel seeds (or ground fennel) provide the classic “sausage” flavor. Adjust the amount to reduce the licorice notes if desired.
- Salt. Aim for roughly 1–2% of the total weight when making sausage to season and help the mixture bind, which is especially important if you plan to stuff casings.
- Parmesan or Pecorino. Grated Parmesan adds umami and depth. You can substitute Pecorino Romano or other firmer Italian cheeses if you prefer a saltier, tangier finish.
Refer to the recipe card below for full ingredient amounts and the simple method.
How to make ground homemade Italian sausage
This is one of the easiest seasoning blends to prepare. Combine all ingredients listed in the recipe card and mix thoroughly so the spices are evenly distributed through the meat.
For best flavor, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. The seasoning and salt will penetrate the meat and develop a fuller taste, though you can cook and use the mixture immediately if needed.
What to make with your homemade sausage
This seasoned ground sausage is versatile. A few great uses include:
- Pasta sauces—add it to baked ziti, a pink cream sauce, or short pasta shapes for a hearty dinner.
- Soups—works beautifully in tortellini soup, Zuppa Toscana, or other rustic Italian soups.
- Stuffed sausages—if you’re making links, this blend seasons the filling perfectly.
- Breads and stuffing—use the seasoned meat in Italian sausage bread or a savory rice dressing for holiday meals.
Recipe FAQs
Marinating allows the salt and seasonings to meld into the meat, enhancing flavor and helping the mixture bind. This is especially useful if you plan to stuff casings or shape patties.
Yes. The seasoned ground pork is delicious cooked right away for dishes like pasta. Overnight resting simply improves depth of flavor.
Homemade Italian Sausage Seasoning
Equipment
- 1 medium bowl
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground pork
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons white wine
- 1 tablespoon fennel (seeds or ground)
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a medium bowl and mix thoroughly so the spices and cheese are evenly incorporated.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight for best results so the flavors meld. You can use the mixture immediately if you prefer.
Notes
- Marinating overnight yields the deepest flavor and helps the meat bind, which is helpful if stuffing casings or shaping patties.
Nutrition
Calories: 1470 kcal • Carbohydrates: 12 g • Protein: 87 g • Fat: 117 g