Italian Sausage Peppers: Easy Comfort Food

Name: Italian Sausage Peppers: Easy Comfort Food
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1½ pounds Italian sausage links (mild, sweet, or spicy); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 large onion, thinly sliced; 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

by basmer

30 de October de 2025

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Italian sausage and peppers has been my go-to, no-fuss dinner since I was a kid. I remember my mom making it on busy weeknights, the aroma of sizzling sausage and sweet, caramelized peppers filling our tiny kitchen. It’s a dish that just screams comfort and home, and honestly, it’s one of the easiest meals I know how to whip up. The vibrant colors of the bell peppers against the rich, savory sausage, all swimming in a light tomato sauce, make it a feast for the eyes before it even hits your plate. This Italian sausage and peppers recipe is truly a lifesaver. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage and Peppers

You’re going to adore this sausage and peppers Italian style dish for so many reasons!

It’s incredibly flavorful, thanks to the combination of savory Italian sausage and sweet, tender peppers.
The prep work is minimal, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
It’s a versatile sausage and peppers Italian style meal that can be served in multiple ways.
The vibrant colors make it as beautiful as it is delicious.
It’s a hearty and satisfying dinner that will please everyone.
You can easily customize the spice level by choosing mild, sweet, or spicy sausage.
It’s a classic comfort food that brings a taste of Italy right to your table.
Cleanup is a breeze with this mostly one-skillet wonder!

Ingredients for Italian Sausage and Peppers

Here’s what you’ll need for this amazing sausage and peppers Italian dish. I always grab a mix of colors for the peppers to make it extra vibrant!

1½ pounds Italian sausage links (mild, sweet, or spicy) – choose your favorite for the perfect flavor base
2 tablespoons olive oil – just enough to get things started and help caramelize the veggies
1 large onion, thinly sliced – yellow or white onions work beautifully here
3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced – this mix of Italian sausage with bell peppers adds sweetness and a lovely texture
3 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that authentic Italian kick
1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes – this forms the base of our delicious sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – a blend that perfectly complements the savory sausage and peppers
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – add this if you like a bit of heat!
Salt and black pepper, to taste – to enhance all the other flavors
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – for a fresh, bright finish

How to Make Italian Sausage and Peppers

Ready to create this classic Italian-American masterpiece? It’s surprisingly simple and the results are so rewarding. The aroma alone will have you counting down the minutes!

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil into a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add your 1½ pounds of Italian sausage links. Let them sizzle and brown beautifully on all sides for about 7–8 minutes. This step is crucial for developing that deep, savory flavor. Once they’re nicely browned, carefully remove the sausages and set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: In that same skillet, now fragrant with sausage drippings, add your sliced 1 large onion and 3 bell peppers. Sauté them, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and get those lovely caramelized edges. The kitchen will start smelling amazing! Toss in the 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant – don’t let it burn!
Step 3: Now it’s time to build the sauce. Pour in the 1 (14-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and the ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Season generously with salt and black pepper to your taste. Give everything a good mix. This is where the magic of how to make Italian sausage and peppers really starts to come together.
Step 4: Nestle the browned sausages back into the skillet with the vegetables and sauce. Make sure they are mostly submerged. Cover the skillet tightly and let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes. This low and slow cooking allows the sausages to finish cooking through and absorb all those delicious flavors, while the peppers and onions become perfectly tender.
Step 5: Once everything is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly, your delicious Italian sausage and peppers are ready to serve! Sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. This wonderful sausage and pepper Italian dish is fantastic served over pasta, spooned onto fluffy rice, or piled high into hoagie rolls for the ultimate sandwich experience.

Pro Tips for the Best Italian Sausage and Peppers

I’ve made this dish countless times, and these little tricks really elevate it from good to spectacular. Follow these tips for your most delicious batch yet!

Always brown your Italian sausages first! This step is non-negotiable for developing deep flavor and a nice crust.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when sautéing the peppers and onions. Give them space to caramelize properly instead of just steaming.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Sometimes the sausage is salty enough, other times it needs a bit more salt and pepper.

What’s the secret to perfect Italian Sausage and Peppers?

The secret to truly authentic Italian sausage and peppers is caramelizing the onions and peppers until they’re sweet and tender, and browning the sausage well. This builds layers of flavor.

Can I make Italian Sausage and Peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the entire dish up to 2 days in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors actually meld together beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Italian Sausage and Peppers?

A common pitfall is not browning the sausage enough, which sacrifices flavor. Another mistake is overcooking the peppers until they’re mushy; aim for tender-crisp. Also, don’t skip tasting and adjusting the seasoning!

Best Ways to Serve Italian Sausage and Peppers

This versatile sausage and pepper Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser, and how you serve it can totally change the meal! My absolute favorite way is spooning it over a bed of fluffy pasta, like spaghetti or penne, allowing the sauce to cling to every strand. For a lighter option, it’s fantastic served alongside creamy polenta or even over a mound of fluffy rice. If you’re craving a hearty sandwich, pile this delicious mixture high on crusty hoagie rolls for an amazing sausage and peppers Italian sandwich experience. Don’t forget a simple side salad or some crusty garlic bread to complete this fantastic meal!

Nutrition Facts for Italian Sausage and Peppers

This classic Italian sausage and peppers dish is hearty and satisfying. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional information per serving, based on the recipe yielding 4-6 servings:

Calories: 420
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 22g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 980mg

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used, such as the type of sausage and portion sizes.

How to Store and Reheat Italian Sausage and Peppers

One of the best things about this Italian sausage and peppers for dinner is how well it stores and reheats. I often make a double batch just so I have leftovers for lunch the next day. Once your delicious Italian sausage and peppers have cooled down to room temperature, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. You can keep it stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually tend to meld and deepen overnight, making it even more delicious! If you want to store it for longer, this dish freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, and it should last in your freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, or microwave it in short bursts until heated through. For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Italian Sausage and Peppers

What makes this Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe so easy?

This easy Italian sausage and peppers recipe is a lifesaver because it uses simple, readily available ingredients and comes together in just one skillet. The minimal prep and straightforward steps mean you can have a delicious, hearty meal on the table in under an hour, perfect for any night of the week.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! While classic Italian sausage is traditional, feel free to experiment. Chicken or turkey Italian sausage works well for a lighter option, and plant-based sausages are a great substitute for a vegetarian meal. Just ensure they’re cooked according to their package directions.

What can I serve with Italian Sausage and Peppers?

This dish is incredibly versatile! It’s fantastic served over pasta, rice, or even creamy polenta. For a low-carb option, try it with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. It also makes an amazing filling for hoagie rolls, creating a classic sausage and peppers Italian sandwich!

How do I make my Italian Sausage and Peppers spicier?

If you love a kick, opt for hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes in the sauce. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or even a diced jalapeño along with the bell peppers for an extra layer of heat in your Italian sausage and peppers.

Variations of Italian Sausage and Peppers You Can Try

This classic dish is so adaptable! If you’re looking to switch things up or cater to different dietary needs, there are tons of delicious variations you can try.

Spicy Italian Sausage and Peppers: For those who love a little heat, swap out mild or sweet Italian sausage for hot Italian sausage. You can also amp up the spice by adding extra red pepper flakes or even a diced jalapeño to the pepper and onion mix. This makes for a wonderfully fiery spicy Italian sausage and peppers experience.
Chicken or Turkey Sausage: Want a lighter version? Use chicken or turkey Italian sausage links instead of pork. They offer a similar flavor profile with less fat, making it a great option for a healthier take on this beloved sausage and pepper Italian dish.
Baked Italian Sausage and Peppers Casserole: Skip the skillet and make an Italian sausage and peppers bake! After browning the sausage and sautéing the veggies, combine everything in a baking dish with the sauce, top with cheese (like mozzarella or provolone), and bake until bubbly and golden. It’s a fantastic way to simplify serving a crowd.
Vegetarian Sausage and Peppers: For a meat-free meal, simply use your favorite plant-based Italian sausage. The combination of colorful bell peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce is still incredibly satisfying and delicious.