Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions is a classic comfort food that embodies the essence of simple yet hearty cooking. This dish combines savory Italian sausage with sweet bell peppers and onions, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal, this recipe delivers both flavor and ease. Here’s how you can make this delicious dish at home.
Ingredients
- Italian Sausage: 1 pound (bulk sausage or links, your choice of sweet or spicy)
- Bell Peppers: 3-4 (various colors: red, green, yellow, and/or orange), sliced into strips
- Onions: 2 large, sliced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
- Tomato Sauce: 1 cup (optional, for a saucier version)
- White Wine: 1/2 cup (optional, can substitute with chicken broth)
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for added heat)
- Salt: to taste
- Black Pepper: to taste
- Fresh Parsley: chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Crusty Bread: for serving (optional)
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Slice the bell peppers and onions into strips. Mince the garlic and set aside.
- Cook Sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (if using links, slice them into bite-sized pieces) and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Combine: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow it to cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced. If not using wine, skip this step and move to the next.
- Add Sausage and Seasonings: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the tomato sauce (if using), dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If you prefer a saucier dish, add a bit more tomato sauce or broth.
- Garnish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta, rice, or polenta.
Tips and Variations
- Sausage Choices: You can use either sweet or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preference. You can also substitute with chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- Make It a Meal: This dish can be served over pasta, rice, or polenta for a more filling meal. It also makes great sandwiches if served in a hoagie roll.
- Leftovers: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or in the microwave. It also freezes well; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- For Extra Flavor: Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion
Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions is a robust and flavorful dish that’s as comforting as it is easy to prepare. The combination of savory sausage with sweet and slightly caramelized peppers and onions makes for a meal that’s both satisfying and versatile. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe brings together classic Italian flavors in a way that’s sure to please everyone at your table. Enjoy every delicious bite of this hearty and flavorful dish!
