Italian sausage with peppers and onions is a delicious and versatile dish that combines bold flavors and vibrant colors. Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a centerpiece for gatherings, it’s a recipe that brings hearty satisfaction to any table.
This recipe highlights the combination of savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and caramelized onions, delivering a balance of flavors that’s both comforting and irresistible. For a twist, consider pairing this dish with sides inspired by this guide to Savory Puff Pastry Recipes. These puff pastry ideas can complement the flavors of sausage and peppers beautifully.
Ingredients for Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions
Gather these simple, flavorful ingredients to create this iconic dish:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot)
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions
1. Sear the Sausage
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add sausage links and cook until browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
- Add sliced onions and cook until softened and golden (5–6 minutes).
- Add bell peppers and garlic, cooking until peppers are tender but still vibrant (7–8 minutes).
3. Combine and Simmer
- Return the sausages to the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables.
- Sprinkle with oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot, over pasta, rice, or on a crusty roll for a classic sausage and peppers sandwich.
- For a complete meal, consider pairing with sides like roasted vegetables or a fresh salad, inspired by recipes like Cherry Pie Bars for dessert.
Variations and Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Swap sausage for plant-based alternatives to make it vegetarian.
- Oven-Roasted Version: Roast all ingredients on a baking sheet for an easy, hands-off method.
- Low-Carb Adaptation: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes! This dish keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve its texture.
2. What’s the best sausage to use?
Sweet or mild Italian sausage is traditional, but spicy sausage adds an extra kick for those who enjoy heat.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Let the dish cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It freezes well for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Italian sausage with peppers and onions is a dish that’s as comforting as it is flavorful. Its versatility makes it perfect for every occasion, from casual family meals to impressive dinner parties. Paired with complementary recipes like Delicious Shortbread Cookies for dessert, you can create a meal that delights from start to finish.
Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy the magic of this timeless recipe!
Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions: A Classic One-Pan Wonder
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot)
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions
- Sear the Sausage:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sausage links and cook until browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove the sausages and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
- Toss in the sliced onions and cook until softened and lightly golden (5–6 minutes).
- Add the sliced bell peppers and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine and Simmer:
- Return the sausages to the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables.
- Sprinkle oregano, basil, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes over the mixture.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Serve hot, either on its own, over pasta or rice, or as a filling for sandwiches.
- Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.