Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

Wow, I just tasted the best thing ever! It’s Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions. You’re going to love it too!

I first had it at my friend’s house. The kitchen smelled so yummy. I couldn’t wait to try it!

Now I make it all the time. It’s spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and soft onions in one big pan. It makes me so happy inside!

You should totally give it a go! Come on, let’s cook it together. I’m excited to dig in with you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Flavorful: The combination of juicy sausage, sautéed peppers, and onions creates a rich, savory dish with minimal ingredients.
• One-Pan Meal: Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta, in a sandwich, or alongside roasted potatoes.
• Customizable Heat Level: Adjust the spice level with red pepper flakes or use mild sausage for a milder version.
• Meal-Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings:

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people as a main dish.

Difficulty:

Easy – great for beginner cooks while still satisfying for experienced home chefs.

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Tongs
• Wooden spoon

Ingredients for Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Italian Sausage: Use sweet, mild, or spicy sausage, depending on your preference. Pork sausage works best for authentic flavor.
• Olive Oil: Helps sear the sausage and sauté the vegetables.
• Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green bell peppers adds sweetness and a pop of color.
• Onion: Use yellow or white onions for the best caramelization.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• Dried Oregano & Basil: Classic Italian herbs that complement the sausage.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a touch of heat (optional).
• Salt & Black Pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance the dish.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish and freshness at the end.

How to Make Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Sausage

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage links and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until browned but not fully cooked.
3. Remove the sausages from the pan and set them aside on a plate.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed.
2. Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the pan.
3. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

3. Add Seasonings & Sausage

1. Sprinkle the sautéed vegetables with dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
2. Slice the partially cooked sausages into thick pieces (about 1-inch thick) or leave them whole, depending on preference.
3. Return the sausage to the pan and mix with the peppers and onions.

4. Simmer to Perfection

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.
2. Let everything cook together for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sausage should be fully cooked, reaching an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
3. If you prefer a saucier dish, you can add ½ cup of canned crushed tomatoes or chicken broth and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

5. Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for brightness.
2. Serve hot with crusty Italian bread, over pasta, or as a sandwich filling.

How to Serve Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs well with various sides. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve with a loaf of Italian bread or baguette to soak up all the juices.
• Over Pasta: Toss with cooked penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni for a hearty meal.
• On a Hoagie Roll: Make a classic sausage and pepper sandwich with melted provolone or mozzarella.
• With Rice or Polenta: Serve over steamed rice or creamy polenta for a comforting option.
• Low-Carb Option: Enjoy it on its own or serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

Refrigeration:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:

• Freeze in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until heated through.

Variations for Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

• Add Marinara Sauce: Stir in 1 cup of marinara or crushed tomatoes for a saucier dish.
• Make it Spicier: Use hot Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes.
• Use Different Peppers: Try yellow or orange bell peppers for a sweeter flavor.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella or Parmesan before serving.
• Wine Infusion: Deglaze the pan with ¼ cup of white wine after cooking the sausage for added depth.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	5g
Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	12g
Cholesterol	65mg
Sodium	900mg

(Note: Nutrition values are approximate and depend on the type of sausage used.)

FAQs About Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage instead of raw sausage?

Yes! If using pre-cooked sausage, slice it before adding it to the pan. Sauté it with the peppers and onions for about 5-7 minutes to heat through and develop a deeper flavor.

Q: What type of sausage is best for this recipe?

Traditional pork Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot) is the most flavorful option. However, you can substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner dish.

Q: Can I make this dish in the oven?

Yes! To make oven-roasted sausage, peppers, and onions, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sliced sausages, peppers, and onions with olive oil and seasonings on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Q: How do I make this dish spicier?

For extra heat, use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes. You can also add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Q: Can I add tomatoes to this dish?

Absolutely! For a saucier version, add ½ to 1 cup of canned crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes when returning the sausage to the skillet. Simmer for extra depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and customize. Whether served with pasta, on a sandwich, or as a low-carb meal, it’s a comforting classic you’ll want to make again and again.