Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage Recipe
Discover the Art of Crafting Authentic Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage! Uncover the Secrets to Irresistible Homemade Sausage Magic.

- Publisher: Crisp Recipe
- Cuisine: Italian
- Category: Sausage
- Prep Time:
- Cook Time:
- Yield: 10 sausages
- Calories: 150 calories
Chevalatta - Italian Ring Sausage
Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage is a standout staple in Italian-American kitchens and beyond, known for its robust, hearty flavor and distinctive ring shape. This sausage brings a touch of authentic Italian charm to any meal, whether it’s grilled for a backyard cookout or sliced into sauces and pasta dishes. The ring form isn’t just for show—it helps the sausage cook evenly while making it easy to slice and serve, turning a simple protein into something special.
The magic of Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage comes down to its blend of premium pork, traditional Italian herbs, and spices. You’ll find a savory mix of garlic, fennel seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, and a hint of black pepper that create a bold, slightly spicy profile with a warm, aromatic finish. The pork is seasoned generously but balanced, allowing the natural richness of the meat to shine through without being overpowered.
When you bite into this sausage, you get a satisfying snap from the casing, followed by a juicy, flavorful interior that’s both rich and perfectly seasoned. The spices deliver just the right amount of heat and complexity, waking up your palate without overwhelming it. Whether it’s sliced thin on a sandwich or served hot alongside peppers and onions, it offers a hearty, comforting taste that feels like a genuine Italian treat.
Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage is often grilled or pan-fried until beautifully caramelized on the outside, locking in juices and enhancing its natural flavors. It’s great as the centerpiece of a meal but also shines chopped into pasta sauces, added to pizzas, or mixed into hearty soups. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for a few days and reheated gently in a skillet or oven to keep that juicy texture intact. Nutritionally, it’s rich in protein and fats, so it’s satisfying and energy-packed, though best enjoyed as part of a balanced diet.
What makes this sausage particularly special is its authentic seasoning and versatility—whether you want a classic Italian flavor profile or a spicy twist, it holds up beautifully. It’s a delicious way to bring a bit of Italian heritage and bold taste to your table with minimal fuss.
If you’re curious to try cooking with Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage at home, check out the recipe below—it’s a great way to experience a slice of Italian-American flavor that’s both comforting and vibrant.
Recipe
Create a delectable Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage with our authentic recipe. Unveil the flavors of Italy in your own kitchen today!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of pork shoulder (you can also use a mix of pork and beef)
- 1/2 pound of pork fat (or substitute with bacon)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup of dry red wine
- Natural hog casings
Method Instructions
- Soak the hog casings in warm water for about 30 minutes to soften them. Then, rinse them under cold water to remove any excess salt.
- Cut the pork shoulder and fat into small chunks, making it easier to grind.
- Using a meat grinder with a coarse grinding plate, grind the meat and fat together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat with minced garlic, salt, black pepper, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour in the red wine and mix everything together thoroughly. You can also use a food processor for this step.
- Attach the hog casing to the sausage stuffer attachment on your grinder or use a sausage stuffer machine.
- Slowly feed the meat mixture into the casing, ensuring there are no air bubbles. Twist the sausage into the desired ring shape, usually about 6-8 inches in diameter.
- Allow the sausages to rest in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld.
- You can cook your Italian ring sausage by grilling, frying, or roasting until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
If you want to store them, you can vacuum-seal and freeze the sausages for later use.
Recipe Video
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Recipe Tags: Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage, Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage Recipe, Recipe
Servings
Serving Italian ring sausage, or "chevalatta," is a delightful experience. Here are some ways to enjoy this delicious sausage:
- Grilled or BBQ: Grill the sausages over medium-high heat until they're nicely browned and cooked through. The grill imparts a smoky flavor that complements the sausage's spices beautifully.
- Pan-Fried: Heat a pan with a bit of oil and cook the sausages until they're browned on all sides. This method is quick and yields a crispy exterior.
- Roasted: Place the sausages on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they're cooked through and have a lovely color.
- Sliced and Sautéed: You can slice the sausages into rounds and sauté them with onions, bell peppers, and other vegetables. Serve this mixture over pasta or as a sandwich filling.
- Sandwiches: Serve chevalatta sausages in a good-quality Italian roll with sautéed onions and peppers, a drizzle of olive oil, and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a classic sausage and pepper sandwich.
- Pasta Dishes: Cut the sausages into small pieces and use them in pasta dishes like spaghetti with sausage and tomato sauce or as a topping for your favorite pasta.
- Appetizers: Slice the sausages into bite-sized pieces, spear them with toothpicks, and serve as an appetizer at parties or gatherings.
- Charcuterie Platter: Include slices of chevalatta on a charcuterie platter with cheese, olives, and bread for a delightful starter.
Tips
- Chill Your Equipment: Make sure your meat grinder, sausage stuffer, and mixing bowl are very cold. This helps maintain the temperature of the meat and fat during the grinding and stuffing process, preventing it from getting too warm, which can affect the texture of the sausages.
- Experiment with Seasonings: The beauty of Italian sausages is the ability to adjust the seasonings to your liking. If you prefer a spicier sausage, increase the amount of red pepper flakes. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your unique flavor profile.
- Natural Casings: While natural hog casings are traditional, you can also use collagen casings if you prefer. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for soaking and preparation.
- Consistency in Meat: To achieve a uniform texture, ensure the meat and fat are cut into consistent-sized pieces before grinding.
- Cook to Safe Temperature: Always cook the sausages to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure they are safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Storage: If you have leftover sausages, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze them for longer-term storage.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the sausages a day in advance and let them rest in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld, enhancing the overall taste.
- Get Creative: Don't be afraid to get creative with how you serve your chevalatta sausages. They work wonderfully in a variety of recipes and dishes, from pasta to sandwiches.
- Safety First: When working with raw meat, practice good food safety. Keep everything clean and wash your hands and utensils thoroughly.
- Enjoy the Process: Making your own sausages can be a fun and rewarding culinary experience. Don't rush it; enjoy the process of crafting these delicious sausages from scratch.
Ingredient Substitutes
If you need to substitute ingredients in the Italian ring sausage (chevalatta) recipe, here are some options:
- Meat: While pork is traditional, you can use a combination of other meats such as beef, veal, or even chicken if you prefer a leaner option.
- Pork Fat: If you can't find pork fat, you can use beef fat or even bacon. Bacon can add a smoky flavor to the sausages.
- Garlic: If you're not a fan of garlic or have allergies, you can omit it or substitute it with garlic powder for a milder flavor.
- Salt: Use a lower-sodium alternative like kosher salt if you're watching your salt intake.
- Fennel Seeds: If you don't have fennel seeds, you can use anise seeds or caraway seeds for a similar licorice-like flavor.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your heat preference or omit them if you don't want any spiciness.
- Red Wine: You can replace red wine with white wine or even broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version. Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also add acidity and flavor.
Remarks
Now that you've mastered the art of Chevalatta Italian Ring Sausage, savor the flavors of Italy from your own kitchen. Buon appetito!