Simple Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is a triumphant ode to rustic Italian-American cooking, a one-pan wonder where humble ingredients are transformed through the alchemy of sautéing and simmering into a robust, deeply flavorful, and profoundly satisfying meal. This recipe is a masterclass in building layers of flavor, starting with the savory foundation of Italian sausages browned to render their flavorful fat, which then becomes the cooking medium for the vibrant trinity of bell peppers and onions. As these vegetables soften and sweeten in the rendered fat, their natural sugars caramelize, creating a sweet and savory base. The final simmer in a bath of crushed tomatoes allows the sausages to steam to juicy perfection while their spices and the aromatic garlic and Italian seasoning infuse the entire dish, marrying all the components into a cohesive, saucy, and comforting feast.
The brilliance of this dish lies in its elegant simplicity, versatility, and the minimal cleanup it requires. It is a complete meal that delivers protein, vegetables, and sauce in a single skillet, with flavors that improve as they meld, making it equally perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. The method of browning the sausages first and finishing them in the sauce ensures they are cooked through without becoming dry, while the peppers and onions retain a pleasant texture, offering a sweet contrast to the savory, fennel-spiced sausage. Served alongside crusty bread for soaking up the sauce, over a bed of polenta, or tucked into a hero roll, this dish is a timeless, crowd-pleasing staple that proves the most memorable meals are often the simplest to prepare.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- One-Pan Wonder: A complete, protein-packed meal with minimal cleanup, cooked entirely in one skillet.
- Bold, Rustic Flavors: The sweet peppers and onions, savory sausage, and garlicky tomato sauce create a deeply satisfying and aromatic dish.
- Incredibly Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or polenta, in a sandwich, or with a chunk of crusty bread.
- Meal Prep & Leftover Hero: Tastes even better the next day and reheats beautifully for easy lunches or dinners.
- Effortless & Foolproof: Simple techniques yield restaurant-quality results perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
For the Sausage & Vegetables:
5 Italian sausages (sweet or hot, about 1.25 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
1 large orange or yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
1 large yellow onion, sliced into half-moons
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Serving (Optional):
Crusty bread, cooked pasta, polenta, or sub rolls
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Sausages
In a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausages and brown well on all sides, about 5-7 minutes total. They do not need to be cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Reduce heat to medium. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers to the fat in the skillet. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables have softened and begun to caramelize.
Step 3: Add Aromatics & Tomatoes
Add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stir to combine, and bring to a gentle simmer. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Nestle the browned sausages back into the skillet, submerging them partially in the sauce. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F) and the peppers and onions are very tender.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Turn off the heat and let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to settle and the sausages to reabsorb some juices. Serve hot with your chosen sides, garnished with fresh herbs and Parmesan if desired.
Tips:
- Don’t Skip the Browning: A proper sear on the sausages adds crucial flavor and texture to the final dish.
- Slice Evenly: Cut peppers and onions into uniform strips for even cooking.
- Simmer Gently: A low, covered simmer ensures the sausages cook through without tightening up and allows the flavors to fully develop.
- Adjust Consistency: For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 5-10 minutes. For a looser, soupier dish, add a splash of water or red wine with the tomatoes.
- Customize It: Add sliced mushrooms with the peppers, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or stir in a handful of chopped greens (like spinach or kale) at the end of cooking.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors improve overnight.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a covered saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot throughout. Can also be reheated in the microwave.
- Freezing: This dish freezes exceptionally well for up to 3 months. Cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Make-Ahead: The entire dish can be cooked, cooled, and refrigerated 1-2 days in advance. Reheat gently before serving.
Simple Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is the quintessential hearty, no-fuss meal. It delivers immense flavor with straightforward technique, offering the warmth and satisfaction of a slow-cooked Sunday gravy any day of the week. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
