Italian Sausage and Peppers: A Quick & Delicious Recipe

Italian Sausage and Peppers, a symphony of savory flavors and vibrant colors, is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration on a plate! Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, perfectly browned Italian sausage, nestled amongst tender, sweet bell peppers and onions, all singing together in a harmonious blend of deliciousness. Are you ready to experience a culinary classic that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to make?

This beloved dish has deep roots in Italian-American culture, often found sizzling at street fairs, family gatherings, and neighborhood feasts. It’s a testament to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of Italian immigrants who adapted traditional recipes to the ingredients available in their new home. The combination of readily available sausages and the sweetness of bell peppers created a dish that quickly became a staple, a symbol of community and shared meals.

People adore Italian Sausage and Peppers for its irresistible combination of textures and tastes. The slight snap of the sausage casing gives way to a burst of savory meat, perfectly complemented by the soft, slightly caramelized peppers and onions. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s equally enjoyable served on a crusty roll, piled high on a plate with pasta, or even as a flavorful topping for pizza. Plus, its ease of preparation makes it a weeknight winner – a delicious and satisfying dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. So, let’s get cooking and bring this taste of Italy to your table!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 2 bell peppers (any color, or a mix), thinly sliced
• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet, hot, or a mix), cut into 3-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Hoagie rolls or crusty bread, for serving (optional)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Preparing the Sausage and Peppers:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, which we want to avoid for maximum flavor.
2. Sauté the Onions: Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; allowing the onions to caramelize slightly will add a depth of sweetness to the dish. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning, reducing the heat if necessary.
3. Add the Bell Peppers: Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet with the onions. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Again, we want them to soften but still retain some of their bite. The combination of the softened onions and peppers creates a flavorful base for the sausage.
4. Brown the Sausage: Push the onions and peppers to one side of the skillet and add the Italian sausage pieces. Brown the sausage on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Browning the sausage is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor. As the sausage cooks, it will release its flavorful fat, which will further enhance the taste of the dish. If the sausage is sticking to the skillet, you can add a little more olive oil.
5. Add the Garlic: Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma of the garlic will fill your kitchen, signaling that the next stage is about to begin.
6. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage may already be seasoned, so start with a small amount of salt and adjust as needed.
7. Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The longer the mixture simmers, the more the flavors will meld together, creating a richer and more complex dish. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little water or broth to thin it out.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Serve on Hoagie Rolls: The classic way to serve Italian sausage and peppers is on hoagie rolls. Slice the rolls open and fill them with the sausage and pepper mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. This makes for a hearty and satisfying sandwich.
2. Serve with Crusty Bread: If you don’t have hoagie rolls, you can serve the sausage and peppers with crusty bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
3. Serve over Pasta: For a heartier meal, serve the sausage and peppers over your favorite pasta. Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti are all good choices. Toss the pasta with the sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
4. Serve as a Main Course: You can also serve the sausage and peppers as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple salad. This is a great option for a lighter meal.
5. Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations:

1. Type of Sausage: You can use any type of Italian sausage you like, including sweet, hot, or a combination of both. For a spicier dish, use hot Italian sausage and add more red pepper flakes. For a milder dish, use sweet Italian sausage and omit the red pepper flakes. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
2. Type of Peppers: You can use any color of bell peppers you like, or a mix of colors. Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are sweeter than green bell peppers. You can also add other types of peppers, such as poblano peppers or banana peppers, for a different flavor.
3. Add Mushrooms: For a heartier dish, add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onions and peppers. Cremini or button mushrooms are good choices.
4. Add Potatoes: For a more substantial meal, add diced potatoes to the skillet along with the tomatoes and seasonings. Yukon gold or red potatoes are good choices.
5. Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil, you can use them instead of dried herbs. Use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for every teaspoon of dried herbs. Add the fresh herbs towards the end of the cooking time to preserve their flavor.
6. Add Wine: For a richer flavor, add 1/2 cup of dry red wine to the skillet after browning the sausage. Let the wine simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly before adding the tomatoes and seasonings.
7. Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage in a skillet before transferring it to the slow cooker. Add the onions, peppers, garlic, tomatoes, seasonings, and any other desired ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
8. Make Ahead: Italian sausage and peppers can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving. The flavors will actually improve as the dish sits.
9. Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
10. Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes altogether. If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
11. Bread Options: While hoagie rolls are traditional, you can use any type of bread you like. Crusty Italian bread, ciabatta rolls, or even hamburger buns will work.
12. Cheese Options: Parmesan cheese is a classic topping, but you can also use other types of cheese, such as provolone, mozzarella, or Asiago.
13. Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or a mix of vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms.
14. Serving a Crowd: This recipe is easily doubled or tripled to serve a crowd. Just make sure you have a large enough skillet or Dutch oven to accommodate all the ingredients.
15. Leftovers: Leftover Italian sausage and peppers can be used in a variety of ways. Add them to omelets, frittatas, or breakfast burritos. Use them as a topping for pizza or pasta. Or simply reheat them and enjoy them as a quick and easy meal.

Detailed Cooking Instructions:

1. Preparing the Vegetables: The key to evenly cooked sausage and peppers is to ensure your vegetables are uniformly sliced. Aim for slices that are approximately 1/4 inch thick. This will allow them to cook at a similar rate and prevent some pieces from being overcooked while others are still crunchy. For the onion, I prefer thinly sliced half-moons, as they tend to caramelize beautifully. For the bell peppers, remove the seeds and membranes before slicing.
2. Choosing the Right Sausage: The type of Italian sausage you choose will significantly impact the flavor of the dish. Sweet Italian sausage has a mild, slightly sweet flavor, while hot Italian sausage has a spicy kick. You can also find mild Italian sausage, which is a good option if you want a more subtle flavor. If you’re using raw sausage, make sure to cook it thoroughly until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). If you’re using pre-cooked sausage, you can simply brown it for added flavor.
3. Browning the Sausage Properly: Don’t rush the browning process. It’s tempting

   

   Conclusion:

   Well, there you have it! I truly believe this Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is a must-try for anyone craving a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that brings people together, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. The combination of the savory sausage, the sweet peppers, and the tangy onions, all simmered in that rich tomato sauce, is simply irresistible. It’s a symphony of flavors that will dance on your taste buds and leave you wanting more.

   But what makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. It’s not just a one-trick pony! You can serve it in so many different ways. For a classic presentation, pile the sausage and peppers high on crusty Italian rolls for a satisfying sandwich. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and maybe a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of deliciousness. Or, for a lighter option, serve it over creamy polenta or fluffy rice. The polenta soaks up all that wonderful sauce, creating a truly comforting and unforgettable experience.

   Serving Suggestions and Variations:

   * Pasta Perfection: Toss the sausage and peppers with your favorite pasta shape – penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti work beautifully.
   * Pizza Topping: Spread the mixture over pizza dough, add some mozzarella cheese, and bake for a homemade pizza that’s bursting with flavor.
   * Frittata Filling: Incorporate the sausage and peppers into a frittata for a delicious and protein-packed breakfast or brunch.
   * Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little extra heat.
   * Sweetness Boost: A touch of balsamic glaze drizzled over the finished dish adds a delightful sweetness and acidity.
   * Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, substitute the sausage with plant-based Italian sausage or add more vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

   I’ve made this Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe countless times, and it always receives rave reviews. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to adapt to different tastes and preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own! Add your favorite herbs, adjust the spice level, or try different types of peppers. The possibilities are endless!

   I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe, and I can’t wait to hear about your experience. Please, give it a try! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Once you’ve made it, I’d love for you to share your photos and comments. Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create and share delicious recipes that everyone can enjoy.

   So, grab your ingredients, put on some music, and get cooking! I know you’ll create a truly memorable meal with this recipe. Happy cooking, and bon appétit! I’m eager to hear all about your Italian Sausage and Peppers success story!

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   Italian Sausage and Peppers: A Quick & Delicious Recipe

   Classic Italian Sausage and Peppers simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for serving on hoagie rolls, crusty bread, or over pasta.

   Prep Time15 minutes

   Cook Time45 minutes

   Total Time60 minutes

   Category: Dinner

   Yield: 6-8 servings

   Save This Recipe

   Ingredients

   • 1 tablespoon olive oil
   • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
   • 2 bell peppers (any color, or a mix), thinly sliced
   • 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet, hot, or a mix), cut into 3-inch pieces
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
   • 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
   • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
   • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
   • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
   • Salt and black pepper to taste
   • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
   • Hoagie rolls or crusty bread, for serving (optional)
   • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

   Instructions

   1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
   2. Sauté the Onions: Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
   3. Add the Bell Peppers: Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet with the onions. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes.
   4. Brown the Sausage: Push the onions and peppers to one side of the skillet and add the Italian sausage pieces. Brown the sausage on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.
   5. Add the Garlic: Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
   6. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   7. Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
   8. Serve: Serve on hoagie rolls, crusty bread, over pasta, or as a main course. Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

   Notes

   • Sausage: Use sweet, hot, or a mix of Italian sausage. Turkey or chicken sausage can be substituted.
   • Peppers: Use any color of bell peppers or a mix.
   • Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for a heartier dish.
   • Potatoes: Add diced potatoes for a more substantial meal.
   • Herbs: Fresh oregano and basil can be used instead of dried.
   • Wine: Add 1/2 cup of dry red wine for a richer flavor.
   • Slow Cooker: This recipe can be made in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage before transferring it to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
   • Make Ahead: Can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
   • Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months.
   • Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
   • Bread Options: Use hoagie rolls, crusty Italian bread, ciabatta rolls, or hamburger buns.
   • Cheese Options: Parmesan cheese is a classic topping, but you can also use provolone, mozzarella, or Asiago.
   • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or a mix of vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, and mushrooms.
   • Serving a Crowd: This recipe is easily doubled or tripled to serve a crowd.
   • Leftovers: Leftover Italian sausage and peppers can be used in a variety of ways.