Italian sausage substitutes
Italian sausage substitutes — 5 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Chorizo
Same amount as the Italian sausage
Similar spiced pork sausage with rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
The best substitutes for Italian sausage are chorizo, bratwurst, or kielbasa.
- Verdict —
- Works
- Best for —
- pasta
Updated 19 Aug 2026 · no sponsored swaps
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of Italian sausage | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chorizopasta | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 2 | Bratwurstpasta | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Kielbasapasta | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 4 | Andouillepasta | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Breakfast sausagepasta | Same amountWorks | Works |
Chorizo
similar taste and texture
Similar spiced pork sausage with rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sandwiches, appetizers
Very similar to Italian sausage in flavor and texture.
Bratwurst
similar taste and texture
Similar spiced pork sausage with rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sandwiches, appetizers
Very similar to Italian sausage in flavor and texture.
Kielbasa
similar taste and texture
Similar spiced pork sausage with rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sandwiches, appetizers
Very similar to Italian sausage in flavor and texture.
Andouille
similar taste and texture
Similar spiced pork sausage with rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sandwiches, appetizers
Very similar to Italian sausage in flavor and texture.
Breakfast sausage
similar taste and texture
Similar spiced pork sausage with rich, savory flavor and tender texture.
- Best for
- pasta, pizza, sandwiches, appetizers
Very similar to Italian sausage in flavor and texture.
Questions
4 questionsCan I use chorizo instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, chorizo is an excellent substitute for Italian sausage. It has a very similar rich, savory flavor and tender texture, making it good for the same applications.
What's the difference between Italian sausage and bratwurst?
Italian sausage is a spiced pork sausage with a rich, savory flavor and tender texture, while bratwurst is a similar spiced pork sausage with a similar rich, savory flavor. Both work well in similar applications but have different cultural origins.
Can I make Italian sausage at home?
Yes, you can make Italian sausage at home by grinding pork with salt, spices, and other ingredients. However, this process requires careful attention to grinding and mixing times and can be time-consuming.
How long does Italian sausage last?
Italian sausage can last for 3-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, it's best to use it within 2-3 days for optimal flavor and texture.
Tips for substituting Italian sausage
7 tips- Italian sausage is best when used in pasta and pizza for its rich flavor
- Store Italian sausage in the refrigerator and use within 3-5 days
- Italian sausage pairs well with cheese, tomatoes, and fresh herbs
- For pasta, Italian sausage adds depth and richness to sauces
- Italian sausage can be used in both sweet and savory applications
- Add Italian sausage gradually to avoid overpowering other flavors
- Italian sausage works well in marinades, dressings, and sauces