Sausage Peppers And Onions Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

When I think of comfort food, sausage peppers and onions immediately comes to my mind. It’s a dish that resonates deeply, not only with my taste buds but also with my love for family gatherings. 

Pair it with some crusty Italian bread or serve it over a bed of steaming pasta, and you have a meal that satisfies the soul. 

Here’s a little trick: a glass of white wine beautifully complements this hearty dish. Let’s dive into a culinary adventure to learn about this flavorful classic.

What is Sausage Peppers and Onions?

Sausage peppers and onions is a dish that features Italian sausage, bell peppers, and onions. It’s cooked together until everything is meltingly tender. The flavors blend beautifully, creating a comforting and robust meal. 

Traditionally, this dish is served as a main course, but it can also be a great filling for sandwiches or even pasta.

The beauty of sausage peppers and onions lies in its simplicity. The ingredients harmonize well and require little fuss. It’s a perfect recipe for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend gathering.

What Does It Taste Like?

Picture this: you take a bite, and the savory flavor of the sausage dances on your palate. The sweetness of the peppers complements the slight crunch of the onions, all wrapped in a savory sauce created from the delicious juices of the ingredients. 

The result is a sweet and savory mixture with just a hint of spice. Each bite is an encouragement to take another.

Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just a delicious dish; there are reasons why it stands head and shoulders above similar recipes. Let’s break it down.

1. Versatile Ingredients

You can use different types of sausages, like turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausages. This versatility means that no matter your dietary needs or flavor preferences, you can make this dish work for you. 

The versatility extends to the choice of vegetables as well. You can mix and match based on what you have on hand.

2. Simple Preparation

This recipe involves minimal prep work. Slice your veggies, brown the sausage, and let everything simmer together. 

It’s perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. The simplicity in technique allows flavors to shine, rather than overshadowing each other with complexity.

3. Nutritional Value

Imagine getting a hearty meal that is also nutritious. The bell peppers and onions add fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They help boost the healthiness of this meal while complementing the flavorful sausage. It’s a well-rounded dish that can help you meet your nutritional goals.

4. Comforting and Crowd-Pleasing

As I mentioned earlier, there’s something inherently comforting about this dish. It’s warm, hearty, and just plain delicious. It’s a surefire hit at parties or family gatherings. Friends and family will come back for seconds, and that’s what makes this dish special.

Ingredients For Sausage Peppers and Onions

The following ingredients will create a dish that serves about four to six people.

• 4 Italian sausage links
• 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced into half-moon shapes
• 1 (15-ounce) can crushed plum tomatoes
• 1 green bell pepper, cut into 3-inch strips
• 1/2 cup dry Marsala wine or robust red wine
• 1 yellow or orange bell pepper, sliced into 3-inch strips
• 2 tablespoons cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into 3-inch strips
• 4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano leaves
• Salt, adjusted to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

These ingredients are typically easy to find in the supermarket or your pantry. If you’re missing something, don’t worry! I’ll cover alternatives later.

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by slicing the onions and bell peppers into strips. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb all the flavorful essence from the sausage and spices. Don’t forget to mince the garlic!

Step 2: Brown the Sausages

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausages, allowing them to brown on all sides. This step creates a delicious crust that adds immense flavor. It typically takes about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

Once the sausages are nicely browned, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 5 minutes until they soften. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. The goal is to create a tender base for your dish.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Spices

Throw in the sliced garlic, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, crushed red chili flakes, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir, letting the spices awaken and meld together for about a minute.

Step 5: Add the Liquids

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and Marsala wine. This adds depth to your dish. Scrape the bottom of the skillet to catch all those flavorful bits that may be stuck.

Step 6: Return the Sausages

Now, return the browned sausages to the skillet. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and let it cook for 20-25 minutes. This will allow all those wonderful flavors to mingle.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Once the sausages are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, it’s time to serve! Slice the sausages if you prefer, and enjoy this dish hot.

Notes

Here are some extra tips to help you throughout this process:

• Pre-cook the Sausages: To save time on busy nights, you can pre-cook the sausage links. They can be stored in the fridge and prepared later.
  
• Chop Vegetables Ahead of Time: Prepare your onions and peppers in advance and store them in the fridge. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook.
  
• Spice Levels: If you can handle more heat, feel free to add additional crushed red chili flakes or even a dash of hot sauce.
  
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently to retain flavor.
  
• Experiment with Wines: If you are adventurous, try white wine or even beer instead of red wine for a unique flavor profile.
  

How to Store The Leftovers?

After you finish your delightful meal, leftovers can be stored easily:

1. Cool Completely: Allow the dish to cool before putting it away.
   
2. Use Airtight Containers: Store the sausage peppers and onions in airtight containers. This will help retain their flavors.
   
3. Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to three days.
   
4. Freezing Option: If you want to store it longer, consider freezing it. Keep it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months.
   

Sides For Sausage Peppers and Onions

To round out your meal, consider these tasty side options:

1. Crusty Italian Bread

There’s nothing like a slice of crusty Italian bread to soak up all those delicious juices from your sausage peppers and onions. Make sure to warm it up and serve it fresh.

2. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread, hot out of the oven, pairs beautifully. The buttery goodness complements the robust flavors of the main dish.

3. Pasta

Serving this dish over pasta is a classic choice. The pasta is a wonderful vehicle, soaking up the flavors and adding texture to every bite.

4. Mixed Green Salad

A light, refreshing mixed green salad with a vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish. Consider adding ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives for extra flavor.

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

Ingredients are flexible! Here are some alternatives in case you’re missing something in your pantry:

1. Sausage Types

If you want a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well. For a plant-based version, consider using veggie sausages.

2. Bell Peppers

Don’t have all the colors? Any bell pepper will do. Green, red, or yellow—pick your favorite or whatever you have on hand!

3. Crushed Tomatoes Substitutes

Don’t have crushed tomatoes? Diced tomatoes or even tomato sauce can serve, keeping in mind the change in texture and flavor.

4. Wine Alternatives

If you’d prefer to skip the wine, consider using vegetable or chicken broth. It adds liquid without the alcohol, preserving the dish’s flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking sausage peppers and onions is more than just preparing a dish; it’s about creating memories around the table. The flavors tell a story, reflecting comfort, warmth, and togetherness. 

As a food blogger and registered dietitian, I encourage you to embrace this recipe. 

Use it as a canvas to explore your cooking style and impress your friends and family. Remember, the heart of a home is its kitchen. So, fire up those stovetops, gather your loved ones, and share a meal that shows just how much you care. Happy cooking!

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