Spicy Sausage Recipe

Prep

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Peel the red onion and cut into 1/4-inch (6 mm) rings or half-rings depending on preference. If using whole sausages, lightly score each sausage in 2–3 diagonal slashes so they cook evenly and the honey/melted cheese can cling to them.

Sear Sausages

Heat a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil. When oil shimmers, add the sausages in a single layer. Sear for 2–3 minutes per side until browned (they will not be fully cooked through). Remove sausages to a plate.

Caramelize Onions

Reduce heat to medium. Add the red onion slices to the same skillet with a pinch of salt (about 1/8 tsp) and cook, stirring occasionally, for 6–8 minutes until softened and edges begin to caramelize. If the pan gets dry, add a splash of water (1–2 tsp) to deglaze.

Combine & Roast

Nestle the seared sausages back into the skillet on top of the onions. Season sausages and onions with remaining salt (about 1/3 tsp) and black pepper. Drizzle 2 tablespoons honey evenly over the sausages and onions, then sprinkle 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes over everything (use less or more to taste). Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 10–12 minutes, until sausages reach an internal temperature of 70°C–74°C (160°F–165°F) depending on type and cheese begins to melt.

Add Mozzarella

Remove the skillet from the oven and immediately scatter the 2 cups shredded or sliced mozzarella evenly over the sausages and onions. Return the skillet to the oven for 2–4 minutes more, or until the cheese is fully melted and slightly bubbling.

Finish & Serve

Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let rest 2 minutes, then garnish with chopped fresh parsley if using and an extra pinch of chili flakes for heat. Serve hot straight from the skillet, or transfer sausages and onions to a platter. Drizzle any pan juices over the top for extra flavor.