This Easy Low Carb Italian Sausage and Peppers dish is a colorful and tasty meal. With juicy sausage and vibrant bell peppers, it’s satisfying without all the carbs!
You won’t believe how quickly this comes together! I love enjoying it over a bed of greens or with some cheese on top. Perfect for busy weeknights and full of flavor!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Choose between mild or hot based on your spice preference. I often go with mild for a family-friendly option. For a healthier twist, consider turkey or chicken sausage as a leaner alternative.
Bell Peppers: I use green, red, and yellow peppers for color and taste. If you’re low on supplies, any color will work. You could substitute with zucchini or eggplant for a different flavor profile.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness. Sweet onions like Vidalia or even shallots can work if you prefer a milder taste.
Herbs: Oregano and basil give this dish an Italian flair. Feel free to use fresh herbs if you have them on hand! You could also toss in some Italian seasoning as a convenient option.
How Do I Cook the Sausage Perfectly?
Getting your sausage just right is key to a delicious meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your skillet to medium heat. This helps brown the sausage without burning it.
- Add the sausage links and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning to brown them evenly.
- Make sure they’re cooked through by checking that no pink remains inside. A little patience here pays off for flavor!
Remove the sausages before cooking the veggies; this helps maintain their delicious juices, which get absorbed back into the mix later.
Easy Low Carb Italian Sausage and Peppers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage links (mild or hot, based on preference)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. The oil should shimmer, which means it’s warm enough to start cooking the sausage.
2. Brown the Sausages:
Add the Italian sausage links to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally to brown all sides. Once browned, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until they start to soften. Make sure to stir occasionally so they cook evenly.
4. Add Garlic and Herbs:
Next, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring until the garlic is fragrant and everything is well mixed.
5. Slice the Sausages:
While the vegetables are cooking, slice the browned sausages into 1/2-inch pieces. Once the garlic and peppers are ready, return the sausage slices to the skillet.
6. Combine and Let Cook:
Stir all the ingredients together in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and cook for about 10 more minutes until the sausages are heated through and the peppers are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This dish is great on its own or served alongside a fresh green salad for a hearty low-carb meal.
FAQ for Easy Low Carb Italian Sausage and Peppers
Can I Use Turkey or Chicken Sausage Instead of Pork?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage works well in this recipe and is a leaner option. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly, as lean meats may require slightly less cooking time than traditional pork sausage.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute in This Recipe?
If you don’t have bell peppers or onions on hand, you can substitute with other veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as some vegetables may cook faster than peppers and onions.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the sausage and vegetables, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet or microwaves, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
