If you have ever fallen in love with the robust flavors of Italian cooking, then this Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites. It’s a vibrant, comforting dish that brings together juicy, perfectly browned sausage links with sweet, tender bell peppers and aromatic onions. Every bite bursts with layers of flavor, enhanced by a blend of herbs and just a hint of spice. This recipe celebrates simplicity and heartiness in the best way, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that feels special yet effortless. Trust me, once you try this Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe, it will be a go-to in your kitchen for good!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s fantastic about this Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is. Each item is carefully chosen to build the classic flavors and create a fantastic texture and color palette that make this dish a joy to eat.
- Olive oil: The base for sautéing, adding a rich, fruity flavor while helping to brown the sausages beautifully.
- Italian sausage links: Choose mild or hot depending on your heat preference; they provide the succulent, meaty heart of the dish.
- Red, yellow, and green bell peppers: Sliced to add sweetness, crunch, and a stunning rainbow of colors.
- Large yellow onion: Thinly sliced to bring a natural, mellow sweetness once caramelized.
- Garlic cloves: Minced for that irresistible aromatic punch that enhances every bite.
- Dried oregano: Adds a touch of earthiness and classic Italian flair.
- Dried basil: To deepen the herbal notes and complement the tomatoes.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For an extra kick of spice, but feel free to skip if you prefer it milder.
- Chicken broth: A little liquid to help soften the peppers and onions and meld the flavors perfectly.
- Crushed tomatoes (optional): For those who love a saucier version, this enriches the dish with tang and moisture.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, seasoning the whole dish to perfection.
- Fresh chopped parsley: A fresh, bright garnish that adds color and a slight peppery note.
How to Make Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage Links
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage links and cook them until they’re golden brown on all sides, about 7 to 8 minutes. This step locks in the flavor and creates that irresistible crispy exterior. Once browned, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside to rest. This will allow you to focus on the peppers and onions without losing any tasty drippings in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onion
In the same skillet, toss in your colorful bell pepper slices along with the onion. Cook them for 5 to 6 minutes until they soften just enough to bring out their natural sweetness while still maintaining a pleasant bite. This is where your kitchen starts filling with that comforting aroma of Italian cooking, making it hard to wait for the final dish.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and if you’re using them, the red pepper flakes. Cook everything together for about a minute more to let the garlic release its fragrance and the herbs bloom. This seasoning step transforms a simple vegetable sauté into an authentic Italian flavor base.
Step 4: Combine Sausages and Simmer
Slice the browned sausages into one-inch pieces and add them back into the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and the crushed tomatoes if you want a saucier dish. Stir everything well to combine all those fantastic flavors. Cover the skillet and let it simmer on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes. This slow melding of ingredients tenderizes the sausage and really lets the sauce come together in a wonderful harmony.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
After simmering, give the dish a taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley on top to brighten the dish visually and add a fresh note to each bite. Your Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is my favorite garnish because it adds a pop of color and freshness that contrasts the rich, hearty flavors. You can also add grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil for an even more indulgent touch.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over creamy polenta, buttered pasta, or fluffy white rice to soak up all those savory juices. For a low-carb approach, cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles bring a veggie-forward twist that balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to switch things up? Slice the sausage and peppers and pile them into toasted hoagie rolls for a classic Italian-style sandwich. Or, spoon the mixture over a bed of crusty bread for an open-faced melt. These presentation ideas make the dish versatile enough for casual lunches or family dinners without losing any of its charm.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers keep wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making second-day meals even more delicious.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this recipe freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, microwaving in a covered dish with a splash of water can refresh the dish without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe?
Absolutely! While traditional Italian sausage links are the most authentic choice, you can mix mild and hot, or even use pre-cooked sausage slices if you’re short on time. Just adjust cook times accordingly to ensure everything is heated through.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that the sausages do not contain any added gluten-containing fillers. Always a good idea to read your sausage label if you have celiac concerns.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian twist, try substituting the sausages with your favorite plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms to mimic that meaty texture. Adjust seasoning and cooking times as needed to ensure great flavor.
What can I do if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?
If you prefer the saucier version but don’t have crushed tomatoes, you can use tomato sauce or even diced tomatoes. Just simmer a little longer to achieve the right texture and absorb the flavors fully.
How spicy is this Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe?
The spice level depends mainly on your choice of sausage and how much red pepper flakes you add. You can easily control the heat by using mild sausages and omitting or reducing the red pepper flakes for a gentler version.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is a true celebration of bold, homey flavors and vibrant textures that warm the soul. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress your loved ones any day of the week. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover how wonderfully satisfying this simple dish can be. Once it lands on your table, I promise it will keep you coming back for more!
Print
Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A classic Italian-American skillet dish featuring savory Italian sausage cooked with colorful bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs. This hearty and flavorful recipe offers an easy, versatile meal perfect for weeknights, served with optional crushed tomatoes for a saucier version and garnished with fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1½ pounds Italian sausage links (mild or hot)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes (optional for saucier version)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage links and cook until browned on all sides, about 7–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften and begin to caramelize slightly.
- Add Aromatics and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors of the herbs and garlic.
- Combine Sausage and Liquids: Slice the browned sausages into 1-inch pieces and return them to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth and add the crushed tomatoes if you want a saucier dish. Stir everything together evenly.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausages are fully cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Season and Garnish: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Serve over rice, pasta, or inside hoagie rolls for a filling sandwich.
- Try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles as a low-carb alternative to traditional sides.
- Adjust the sausage type to sweet, spicy, or a combination based on your taste preference.
