Sausage, peppers, and onions is a classic Italian-American dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be enjoyed on its own, over pasta, or in a sandwich. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Recipe Summary in Todd Wilbur’s Style: Savor the robust flavors of Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions in this simple and classic dish. Cooked together in one skillet, the sausages become juicy, and the peppers and onions turn sweet and tender, making for a dish that’s both quick and comforting.
Personal Story: This dish has always been a go-to in our household. My family loves the combination of savory sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions. It’s a dish that comes together quickly, yet it never fails to impress. Whether we’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or serving it to guests, it’s always a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, in a hoagie roll, or on its own with a side of crusty bread.
- One-Pan Meal: Minimal cleanup is required with this one-pan wonder.
How to Make Sausage, Peppers, and Onions:
- Cook the Sausages:
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside.
- Cook the Peppers and Onions:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and starting to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings:
- Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
- Deglaze the Pan:
- Pour in the chicken broth or white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds great flavor to the dish.
- Finish Cooking:
- Slice the sausages into 1-inch pieces and return them to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir everything together and cook for another 5 minutes, until the sausages are fully cooked and heated through.
- Serve:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot, either on its own, over pasta, or in a hoagie roll.
Tips:
- Make It Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
- Meal Prep: This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Add Tomatoes: For a saucier version, add a can of diced tomatoes to the skillet when you add the sausage back in.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Vegan Option: Use vegan sausage and substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth.
- Cheesy Twist: Top with shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese and broil for a few minutes until melted.
- Add Potatoes: Add sliced potatoes to the skillet with the peppers and onions for a heartier meal.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Lean Protein: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
- Less Oil: Reduce the amount of oil used, or use a non-stick skillet to cut down on added fats.
Closing in Todd Wilbur Style: Whether you’re whipping this up for a quick family dinner or serving it at a casual get-together, this sausage, peppers, and onions dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Simple ingredients, bold flavors – this is comfort food at its best!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- What kind of sausage should I use?
- Italian sausage works best, but you can use any sausage you like, including chicken or turkey sausage.
- Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat before serving.
- What can I serve with this dish?
- Serve it over pasta, rice, or in a sandwich roll. It also pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
- Can I use frozen peppers and onions?
- Yes, frozen peppers and onions can be used in place of fresh. Just be sure to cook off any excess moisture.
- Is this dish gluten-free?
- Yes, as long as the sausage and broth are gluten-free, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
- Can I make this dish in the oven?
- Yes, after browning the sausages, you can combine all ingredients in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes.
- What other vegetables can I add?
- Mushrooms, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are great additions to this dish.
- How do I prevent the sausages from burning?
- Cook the sausages over medium heat and turn them frequently to prevent burning.
- Can I use red onions instead of yellow?
- Yes, red onions can be used and will add a slightly different flavor.