Sausage and Peppers Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty, colorful, and flavor-packed meal that comes together in just over half an hour, this Sausage and Peppers Recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite. Juicy Italian sausages are seared until golden, then nestled into a vibrant mix of bell peppers and onions, all simmered in aromatic herbs and a splash of broth. Whether you pile it into a hoagie roll, spoon it over fluffy rice, or savor it straight from the skillet, this classic dish delivers comfort and bold Italian-American flair with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sausage and Peppers Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add a pop of color, a burst of flavor, or a touch of texture. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each one matters.
- Olive oil: Adds a rich, silky base and helps brown the sausages beautifully.
- Italian sausage links (mild or hot): The star of the show, providing robust flavor and hearty protein.
- Red bell pepper: Gives a sweet, juicy crunch and stunning color.
- Green bell pepper: Offers a slightly grassy, earthy taste that balances the sweetness.
- Yellow bell pepper: Adds a mellow, sunshine-yellow vibrancy to the skillet.
- Large onion: Sliced and sautéed, it brings natural sweetness and depth.
- Garlic: Just two cloves, but they make the whole dish sing with savory aroma.
- Dried oregano: Infuses the vegetables with classic Italian herb flavor.
- Dried basil: Adds a subtle, sweet herbal note for extra depth.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick of heat.
- Chicken broth or water: Helps everything simmer together and melds the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring it all together.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, green finish that brightens each serving.
How to Make Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausages
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage links and let them sizzle away, turning every couple of minutes to ensure all sides get a golden-brown crust. This step locks in the flavor and gives the sausages that irresistible seared exterior. After 6 to 8 minutes, when they’re nicely browned, transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onions
In the same skillet (don’t clean it — all those tasty browned bits are gold!), toss in the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers along with the onion. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring every so often, until the veggies start to soften and the onions turn translucent. The colors will brighten, and the kitchen will smell amazing.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs
Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Stir it all together and let the garlic cook just until fragrant, about a minute. This is where the Sausage and Peppers Recipe starts to develop those classic Italian aromas.
Step 4: Slice and Return the Sausages
Cut the browned sausages into thick, hearty slices — about an inch each. Return them to the skillet, nestling them among the peppers and onions so they can soak up all the flavors. Pour in the chicken broth or water, which helps everything simmer together and keeps the dish nice and juicy.
Step 5: Simmer and Finish
Cover the skillet and let the whole mixture simmer for 10 to 12 minutes. This gently cooks the sausage through and allows the herbs, broth, and vegetables to meld into one delicious, saucy mixture. Remove the lid, increase the heat a bit, and let the liquid reduce for a couple of minutes until it’s just the right consistency. Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed, then finish with a flurry of fresh parsley if you like.
How to Serve Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note that brightens up every plate. For even more flavor, try a dusting of parmesan cheese or a squeeze of lemon right before serving. These little touches make the Sausage and Peppers Recipe extra inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish is so versatile! Serve it over fluffy white rice, tender pasta, or tuck it into toasted hoagie rolls for the ultimate sausage and peppers sandwich. If you’re looking for a lighter option, spoon it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Pair with a crisp green salad or some roasted potatoes for a comforting, complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Sausage and Peppers Recipe into bite-sized appetizers by piling the mixture onto crostini or stuffing it into mini bell peppers for party platters. You can also use it as a pizza topping, fold it into an omelet, or serve it as a hearty filling for baked potatoes. The possibilities are endless and always delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (lucky you!), let the Sausage and Peppers Recipe cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or busy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, portion the cooled sausage and peppers into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label everything so you can enjoy this meal whenever a craving strikes!
Reheating
Reheat the Sausage and Peppers Recipe gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen things up if needed. Alternatively, pop it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot all the way through. It tastes just as wonderful the next day!
FAQs
Can I use chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork?
Absolutely! Both chicken and turkey sausages work beautifully in this Sausage and Peppers Recipe. Just keep an eye on the cook time, as leaner sausages may cook a bit faster.
What’s the best way to slice the peppers for this recipe?
Aim for strips about half an inch wide. This size ensures the peppers cook evenly and still have a satisfying bite, blending perfectly with the sausage and onions.
Is this Sausage and Peppers Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free sausage (many brands offer this option), the recipe is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those avoiding wheat.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is totally up to you! Use mild or hot Italian sausages, and add as much (or as little) crushed red pepper flakes as you like. The optional flakes give a gentle warmth without overwhelming the flavors.
Can I double the Sausage and Peppers Recipe for a crowd?
Definitely. This recipe scales up easily — just use a larger skillet or cook in batches. It’s a fantastic choice for entertaining since it’s hearty, colorful, and always a hit.
Final Thoughts
There’s a reason this Sausage and Peppers Recipe has stood the test of time — it’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and bursting with flavor. I hope you’ll give it a try and make it your own, whether for a cozy family dinner or your next gathering with friends!
Print
Sausage and Peppers Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This classic Sausage and Peppers recipe features juicy Italian sausage links cooked with colorful bell peppers, onions, and fragrant herbs. It’s a flavorful and easy skillet meal perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, served on its own or over rice, pasta, or in a hoagie roll.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 pound Italian sausage links (mild or hot)
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the sausages: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage links and cook for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned evenly on all sides. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside to rest.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and started to caramelize slightly.
- Add aromatics and herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld and the garlic to become fragrant.
- Cook sausages with vegetables: Slice the browned sausages into thick pieces and return them to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the chicken broth or water, cover the skillet, and let simmer for 10–12 minutes. This ensures the sausages cook through and the flavors combine beautifully.
- Reduce liquid and finish: Remove the lid and continue cooking for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid slightly. Season the dish with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Serve this dish over cooked rice or pasta for a hearty meal.
- Try stuffing the sausage and peppers into hoagie rolls for a classic Italian sandwich.
- For a lower-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Use gluten-free sausage to make this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Adjust the level of crushed red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
