Nothing beats the classic comfort of an Italian sausage sandwich. This hearty and satisfying meal combines the rich, savory flavor of Italian sausage with tender sautéed peppers and onions, all nestled in a warm, crusty roll. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, game day gathering, or a casual weekend lunch, this dish is easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Topped with a hint of marinara sauce and melty cheese, it’s a sandwich that delivers a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients:
- 4 Italian sausage links (mild or hot, as preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 4 hoagie rolls or crusty sandwich buns
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage links. Cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside. (They don’t need to be fully cooked yet.)
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, heat the olive oil. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 8 minutes. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, and cook for an additional minute.
- Simmer the Sausage: Return the sausages to the skillet and pour in the marinara sauce. Cover and let simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sausages are fully cooked through and the sauce is heated.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Preheat your oven’s broiler. Slice the hoagie rolls open and place them on a baking sheet. Spoon the sausage, peppers, and onions into the rolls. Top each sandwich with shredded cheese.
- Broil and Serve: Place the sandwiches under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil, if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve the sandwiches hot with your favorite side, like fries, chips, or a crisp salad.
These Italian sausage sandwiches are sure to become a favorite in your household. Adjust the spice level and toppings to make them perfect for your taste!