Italian Sausage and Peppers is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal, whether as a main or served as a sandwich. The savory, slightly spicy Italian sausages are paired with sweet bell peppers, onions, and garlic, all simmered together in a rich tomato sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients. This dish is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed in many ways – on its own with a side of crusty bread, over pasta, or piled into a hoagie roll for a satisfying sandwich. It’s the kind of comfort food that’s always a crowd-pleaser and makes for great leftovers!
Ingredients:
- 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or hoagie rolls (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the Sausages:
In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the sausages from the pan and set them aside to rest. - Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers, cooking them for about 7-8 minutes, until they become tender and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. - Simmer in Tomato Sauce:
Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. - Return Sausages to the Pan:
Slice the cooked sausages into 2-3 inch pieces and return them to the pan. Stir everything together, making sure the sausages are coated in the tomato sauce. Let it simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, allowing the sausages to absorb the flavors of the sauce and vegetables. - Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping, over pasta, or piled into hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich.
Italian Sausage and Peppers is a classic dish full of bold flavors that can be made in one pan, making it not only delicious but easy to clean up after as well!
