This Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers dish is a colorful and hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week! Juicy sausages mix with sweet bell peppers and onions for a tasty treat.
It’s a one-pan wonder, so cleanup is a breeze! I love serving it over pasta or with a crusty loaf of bread. You’ll find yourself going back for seconds—trust me on that! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose between mild and spicy sausages based on your heat preference. Turkey or chicken sausage is a great alternative for a leaner option.
Bell Peppers: A mix of red, green, and yellow peppers adds color and sweetness. If you don’t have all colors, any single color will work, or even use sliced zucchini for a twist!
Onions: Yellow onions are perfect for their sweetness, but white or red onions can also be used. Just remember that red onions will add a different flavor and color.
Marinara Sauce: This is optional, but it adds a nice touch. If you’re looking for a lighter option, skip the sauce or use a fresh tomato salsa instead. You could also make it creamy with a bit of ricotta.
What’s the Best Way to Cook the Sausages?
Browning the sausages is a vital step for flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Carefully add the sausages and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes. This helps form a nice crust.
- Once browned, turn them on all sides to get an even cook. Aim for about 5-7 minutes total.
- Don’t worry too much if they aren’t fully cooked through; they’ll finish cooking later with the veggies.
Letting the sausages rest after browning will help keep them juicy when you slice them!
Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage links (mild or spicy, as preferred)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced into strips
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped, for garnish
- Hoagie rolls or cooked pasta, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time plus around 20 minutes to cook. In just about 30 minutes, you will have a delicious and hearty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Sausages:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage links and brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook them until they are softened, which should take around 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Adding Flavor:
Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
4. Bringing It All Together:
Slice the browned sausages into bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet with the vegetables. If you’re using marinara sauce, pour it in now and stir gently to combine everything. Let it cook for about 5 more minutes until the sausages are cooked through and the flavors have melded.
5. Final Seasoning and Serving:
Season the mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Before serving, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil. Serve the delicious sausage and peppers hot on hoagie rolls as a sandwich, or over cooked pasta to make a hearty meal.
Enjoy your Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers!
FAQ for Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can swap Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option, or even use smoked sausage for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sausage and peppers mixture ahead of time. Just store it in the fridge and reheat on the stove when you’re ready to serve. If you’re using marinara sauce, add it during reheating for the best flavor.
What’s a Good Side Dish for Italian Sausage and Peppers?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Try serving it with crusty bread for dipping, a fresh salad for a lighter option, or over rice or pasta to make it more substantial.
