Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions Recipe

Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions is a classic comfort dish that brings together vibrant colors, bold flavors, and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing for a hearty weekend meal, this recipe will deliver a mouthwatering combination of savory sausage, sweet peppers, and tender onions. With an Italian twist of herbs and a little garlic, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s incredibly versatile—enjoy it as is, serve it on hoagie rolls, or pair it with a side of your choice. This dish is sure to bring joy to the table while keeping things simple and delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (substitute with chicken or turkey sausage if preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil 
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Hoagie rolls or Italian bread (optional for serving)

Preparation:

Step 1:

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the Italian sausages to the pan. Cook the sausages until browned on all sides, about 7-8 minutes. Make sure the sausages get an even golden-brown color. Once browned, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside for later use.

Step 2:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp of olive oil. This will help in sautéing the vegetables. Begin by adding the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Sauté the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the vegetables from sticking. The peppers and onions should soften and start to caramelize, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3:

Once the peppers and onions have softened, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir the garlic into the sautéed vegetables, cooking for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not burnt.

Step 4:

Season the mixture with 1 tsp of dried oregano, 1 tsp of dried basil, 1/4 tsp of red pepper flakes (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir the spices into the vegetables, allowing them to coat the peppers and onions evenly. Let the vegetables cook with the seasoning for an additional 2-3 minutes to deepen the flavors.

Step 5:

Return the browned sausages to the skillet, nestling them among the vegetables. Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth to add moisture and enhance the flavor. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes. This step allows the sausages to cook through completely while infusing them with the flavor of the peppers, onions, and garlic. The broth will also reduce slightly, creating a savory sauce.

Cooking Note:

• If you want an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar right before serving. This will add a sweet and tangy element to the dish, complementing the richness of the sausage.
• Make sure to let the dish rest for a couple of minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to fully meld.

Serving Suggestions:

1. On Hoagie Rolls or Italian Bread: For a more filling meal, serve the sausage and pepper mixture on lightly toasted hoagie rolls or Italian bread. You can even melt some provolone or mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy version of this classic dish.
2. Side of Roasted Potatoes: Pair this dish with a side of crispy, oven-roasted potatoes. The contrast between the crispy potatoes and the tender sausages will make for a perfect match.
3. Fresh Green Salad: If you’re looking for something lighter, serve alongside a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette. The brightness of the salad will balance the hearty flavors of the sausage and peppers.

Tips:

• Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes if you like your food with a kick.
• Lower Calorie Option: Substitute the Italian sausage with chicken or turkey sausage to reduce the fat content without compromising on flavor.
• Storage Tip: This dish stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave before serving.
• Make Ahead: You can cook the sausages and the pepper-onion mixture ahead of time and simply reheat them together when ready to serve.
• Extra Flavor: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be added for an aromatic touch.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Protein: 20 g
• Sodium: 850 mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version of this recipe. You can also try spicy Italian sausage for more heat or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the sausage and peppers in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then place the sausage and peppers in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

4. What can I serve this with for a complete meal?

This dish pairs well with roasted potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it over pasta for a heartier meal.

5. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Just add more red pepper flakes or use a spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick of heat.

Conclusion:

Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions is a timeless, flavorful dish that combines simplicity with satisfying taste. Whether you enjoy it on its own, in a sandwich, or alongside your favorite side dishes, it’s a meal that will please everyone around the table. Its vibrant colors and robust flavors make it not only a treat for your taste buds but also a beautiful dish to serve. The versatility of this recipe allows you to make it your own—adjust the heat, change the sausage type, or even serve it in different ways to suit your preferences. Enjoy this hearty and comforting meal any day of the week!

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