Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions is a classic, hearty dish that combines savory sausage with sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions.
It’s versatile, flavorful, and easy to make for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
A classic Italian-inspired dish featuring juicy sausages, sweet bell peppers, and caramelized onions in a savory tomato-based sauce. Perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or in a crusty roll!
Italian Sausage Peppers and Onions
Ingredients
- 1 Ib Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 bell peppers
- 2 medium onions thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
For Serving:
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Crusty Italian bread pasta, or rice
Instructions
- Brown the Sausages: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausages and cook until browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove sausages and set aside.
- Sauté the Peppers and Onions: In the same skillet, add sliced peppers and onions. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return the sausages to the skillet, cover, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until the sauce thickens and the sausages are cooked through.
- Serve and Enjoy: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and Parmesan. Serve over pasta, rice, or in a toasted Italian roll.
Why You Will Love Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The savory, juicy Italian sausage pairs beautifully with the sweetness of sautéed bell peppers and caramelized onions, creating a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and a splash of marinara or white wine elevates the dish, making it both hearty and delicious.
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can serve it on a toasted hoagie roll for a classic sausage sandwich, over creamy polenta, or alongside pasta for a filling meal. It also works well as a low-carb option when served over cauliflower rice or a green salad.
Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It comes together in just 30 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup. The blend of tender vegetables and juicy sausage makes every bite flavorful and comforting.
This dish is also perfect for meal prepping—it stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully. Once you try it, this Italian-inspired classic will become a go-to favorite in your recipe rotation!
Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions – Tips and Serving Tricks
Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions is a classic, hearty dish that combines savory sausage with sweet bell peppers and caramelized onions. It’s versatile, flavorful, and easy to make for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Here are some expert tips and serving tricks to make it even more delicious:
Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
1. Choose the Right Sausage
- Use sweet, mild, or hot Italian sausage depending on your flavor preference.
- For extra juiciness, opt for sausages with a higher fat content (around 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio).
- If using chicken or turkey sausage, cook carefully to prevent dryness.
2. Sear the Sausage for Flavor
- Brown the sausages in a large skillet over medium-high heat to develop a crispy, golden crust.
- Don’t cut them before cooking—keep them whole to lock in juices.
- After browning, remove from the pan and slice or keep whole depending on your preferred presentation.
3. Perfectly Cook the Peppers and Onions
- Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for color and flavor contrast.
- Slice the peppers and onions evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
- Sauté in a combination of olive oil and butter for rich flavor.
- Cook over medium heat until they soften and caramelize, about 10–12 minutes.
4. Deglaze for Extra Flavor
- After cooking the vegetables, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or chicken broth to lift the caramelized bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan.
- Let the liquid reduce slightly for deeper flavor.
5. Simmer for Richness
- Return the sausage to the pan and simmer with the vegetables for 5–10 minutes.
- Add a dash of balsamic vinegar or tomato paste for an extra layer of flavor.
Serving Tricks
1. Serve on a Hoagie Roll
- Toast a hoagie or sub roll, add a layer of sautéed peppers and onions, then place the sausage on top.
- Melt provolone or mozzarella cheese over the top under a broiler for a gooey finish.
2. Over Pasta
- Serve over al dente penne or rigatoni with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
- Add a spoonful of marinara sauce for extra richness.
3. With Roasted Potatoes
- Pair with crispy roasted potatoes or garlic mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
- Toss the potatoes in olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning for flavor.
4. Low-Carb Option
- Serve the sausage, peppers, and onions over a bed of sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
5. Make-Ahead and Storage
- This dish reheats beautifully!
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
- Freeze for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
With these tips and tricks, you’ll have a restaurant-quality Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions that’s juicy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion!
FAQ:
What is Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions?
Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is a classic Italian-American dish featuring juicy Italian sausage sautéed with sweet bell peppers and onions in a flavorful sauce. The sausages are typically browned first, then simmered with peppers and onions in a base of garlic, tomatoes, and white wine or broth. The result is a hearty, savory dish with a balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors. It’s often served on a hoagie roll, over pasta, or with crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
How Do You Make Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions?
- Brown the sausage – In a large skillet, cook Italian sausages until browned on all sides (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables – In the same pan, cook sliced bell peppers and onions until soft (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Simmer – Add canned diced tomatoes (or marinara), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Return the sausages to the pan and simmer for 10–15 minutes until the sausages are fully cooked and the sauce thickens.
- Serve – Enjoy over pasta, on a hoagie roll, or with mashed potatoes.
What Can I Serve with Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions?
- Pasta – Toss with spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni for a complete meal.
- Hoagie Rolls – Load the sausage, peppers, and onions onto a toasted hoagie for a delicious sandwich.
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
- Polenta or Mashed Potatoes – The creamy texture pairs beautifully with the hearty sausage and pepper mixture.
