Indulge in a classic, hearty dish that bursts with flavor—Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions. This beloved Italian-American recipe combines savory sausages with sweet bell peppers, caramelized onions, and a hint of garlic, all brought together in a rich tomato sauce. Whether served in crusty rolls, over pasta, or on its own, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy!
Ingredients
For the Sausages:
- 6 Italian sausages (mild, sweet, or spicy, depending on preference)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Peppers and Onions:
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 bell peppers, thinly sliced (a mix of red, yellow, and green for color)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
- 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Optional Serving Suggestions:
- Fresh hoagie rolls or crusty bread
- Cooked pasta or rice
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sausages
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. You don’t need to cook them through at this stage, as they will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the sausages from the pan and set them aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onions
- In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions and peppers are soft and beginning to caramelize, about 10-12 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), oregano, and basil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, and sugar (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Return the sausages to the pan, nestling them into the sauce and vegetable mixture.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure the sausages cook through.
Step 4: Check and Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or balsamic vinegar as needed.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
Serving Suggestions
- As Sandwiches: Place a sausage with a generous helping of peppers and onions in a hoagie roll. Top with grated Parmesan for a delicious sausage sandwich.
- Over Pasta or Rice: Spoon the sausages, peppers, onions, and sauce over a bed of spaghetti, penne, or rice for a hearty meal.
- On Its Own: Serve with a simple green salad and crusty bread for a low-carb option.
Tips for Success
- Choose Your Sausages Wisely: Mild, sweet, or spicy Italian sausages all work well. Choose according to your heat preference.
- Mix Bell Peppers: Use a variety of bell pepper colors for the best visual and flavor appeal.
- Caramelize the Vegetables: Don’t rush the cooking process for the onions and peppers. Their sweetness is key to the dish’s depth of flavor.
- Make Ahead: The dish reheats beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions recipe is a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s easy to customize to your liking. The combination of tender sausages, caramelized vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce creates a dish that feels both hearty and indulgent. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Serve it your way, savor the robust flavors, and relish the simplicity of this timeless recipe!