Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a hearty and colorful dish that brings together the juicy flavors of sausage with the sweet crunch of bell peppers and onions. It’s a simple…
Tip: save now, cook later.Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a hearty and colorful dish that brings together the juicy flavors of sausage with the sweet crunch of bell peppers and onions. It’s a simple one-pan meal that’s packed with bold tastes and a satisfying mix of textures. The sausages get nicely browned, while the peppers and onions soften up and soak in all those tasty juices.
I love making this skillet on busy weeknights because it’s quick to throw together and easy to customize. Sometimes I add a little garlic or sprinkle some Italian seasoning for an extra punch. One tip I’ve learned is to let the sausage get a good sear before tossing in the peppers—that way, you get a bit of crispiness on the meat and those caramelized flavors really shine through.
My favorite way to serve it is right from the skillet with some crusty bread on the side to soak up all the delicious juices. It’s also great on a bed of rice or tossed with pasta for a filling meal. This is one of those dishes that everyone seems to enjoy, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a laid-back gathering with friends. It’s simple, comforting, and full of good vibes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the dish. Sweet or spicy sausage works depending on how much heat you like. If you want a leaner option, try chicken or turkey sausage. Vegetarian sausage can work too for a meat-free twist.
Bell Peppers: Red, yellow, and orange peppers add color and sweetness. If you can’t find all colors, just use what you have. You can also include green peppers if you like a slightly bitter touch.
Onion and Garlic: These build the flavor base. Yellow or white onions work fine. If garlic isn’t your thing, you can skip it or add garlic powder for a milder taste.
Herbs and Seasoning: Dried oregano and basil give an Italian vibe. Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want extra spice. Fresh parsley at the end adds a pop of color and freshness.
How Do I Get the Sausage Perfectly Browned Without Overcooking?
Getting a good sear on the sausage is key for flavor and texture. Here’s how I do it:
- Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add oil before the sausage.
- Place sausages without crowding the pan to let them brown evenly.
- Turn them gently every few minutes to brown all sides.
- Once browned, reduce heat slightly to finish cooking without burning.
- Remove and rest before slicing to keep the juices inside.
This way, you get juicy sausage with a nice crust, making the whole dish tastier.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet – perfect for even heat and browning sausages beautifully.
- Sharp chef’s knife – makes slicing peppers, onions, and sausage quick and safe.
- Cutting board – gives you a stable surface to chop ingredients easily.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – lets you stir without scratching your pan.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use spicy Italian sausage for a bit of heat or switch to chicken sausage for a lighter meal.
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra earthiness and a meaty texture.
- Mix in cherry tomatoes near the end for a fresh, juicy burst.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella or provolone cheese just before serving to add creamy richness.
Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage links (sweet or spicy, according to preference)
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large orange bell pepper, sliced into strips (optional for added color)
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 20 minutes to cook, so you can have a tasty meal ready in around 35 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy skillet recipe perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage links whole and cook, turning occasionally, until they’re browned on all sides and cooked through (about 10-12 minutes). Once done, remove the sausages from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, slice them into bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the Peppers and Onions:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook them, stirring every now and then, until they soften and start to caramelize, which should take about 7-8 minutes.
3. Add Garlic and Seasonings:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until you smell the lovely aroma. Then, sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix it all together well.
4. Combine and Finish:
Return the sliced sausages to the skillet and stir them in with the peppers and onions. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes so the flavors can combine nicely. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Serve this warm skillet dish with crusty bread to soak up the juices, over rice, or with your favorite pasta.
Can I Use Frozen Sausage for This Recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw the sausage before cooking. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This helps the sausage cook evenly and prevents the peppers from overcooking.
Can I Substitute Different Vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes are great additions or substitutes. Just adjust the cooking time to make sure they don’t get too soft or watery.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Is This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sausage. Always check the labels if you have dietary restrictions.