Sausage and Peppers is a quintessential Italian-American dish that showcases the harmonious blend of savory sausages and sweet bell peppers. This dish is incredibly versatile, often served as a main course, a hearty sandwich filling, or even over pasta. The combination of seared sausages with sautéed peppers and onions creates a comforting and delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. In this guide, we’ll explore how to make this classic dish with a few simple ingredients and easy steps.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot)
- 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Steps
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the Vegetables: Cut the bell peppers into strips and slice the onion. Mince the garlic and set aside.
- Prepare the Sausage: If using whole sausages, you can leave them whole or cut them into bite-sized pieces.
Cook the Sausage:
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook the Sausage: Add the sausages to the pan and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. If using whole sausages, you can partially cook them and slice them later. Remove the sausages from the pan and set them aside.
Sauté the Vegetables:
- Sauté Onions and Peppers: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant.
Combine and Simmer:
- Return Sausage to the Pan: Add the sausages back to the pan with the peppers and onions. If you haven’t sliced the sausages yet, do so now.
- Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth or white wine, stirring to combine. This will deglaze the pan and help meld the flavors together.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the sausages are cooked through and the vegetables are tender. If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid and let the liquid reduce for a few minutes.
Serve:
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil or parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve Hot: Serve the sausage and peppers on their own, over pasta, in a hoagie roll for a sandwich, or with a side of crusty bread.
Tips
- Sausage Options: Use your favorite type of Italian sausage—sweet, mild, or hot—depending on your preference. You can also mix different types for a more complex flavor.
- Vegetable Variations: Add other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors often deepen after sitting, making it even more delicious the next day.
- Freezing: Sausage and peppers freeze well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months and reheat thoroughly before serving.
Variations
- Spicy Sausage and Peppers: Use hot Italian sausage and increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.
- Herbed Sausage and Peppers: Add a teaspoon of fresh chopped rosemary or thyme for an herbal twist.
- Cheesy Sausage and Peppers: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving for a cheesy finish.
Sausage and Peppers is a timeless dish that brings together the robust flavors of Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions. This simple yet satisfying meal can be enjoyed in various ways, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether served as a main course, in a sandwich, or over pasta, Sausage and Peppers is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the ease of preparation and the delightful taste of this classic Italian-American dish.
