This Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a colorful mix of juicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and onions. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor!
Honestly, it feels like a party on a plate! I love how everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Pair it with some bread, and you’re set for a fun meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: I like using mild Italian sausage for a well-rounded flavor. If you’re looking for something lighter, turkey or chicken sausage works great too. For a kick, pick spicy sausage!
Bell Peppers: The blend of green, red, and yellow peppers isn’t just pretty, it adds great sweetness! Feel free to substitute with other colors like orange or even add some chopped poblano for a different flavor.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the dish. Red onions can be a nice alternative, giving a slightly sharper taste. If you’re avoiding onions, skip them or use leeks instead.
Garlic: Fresh garlic boosts the flavor significantly. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder can be a decent substitute, but I always recommend fresh for the best taste!
Marinara Sauce: This ingredient is optional, but if you’d like a saucier dish, I suggest adding homemade or store-bought marinara. You can also substitute this with diced tomatoes or a little broth for moisture.
How Do I Get the Sausage to Cook Evenly?
Cooking the sausage evenly is key to ensuring great flavor! Start by heating your skillet to medium before adding the sausage.
- Brown the sausages on all sides for about 8-10 minutes.
- Let them rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices stay inside.
- Slice them into bite-sized pieces for even mixing with the peppers and onions.
Cooking them whole first helps to lock in flavor, ensuring each bite is delicious!
Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage links (mild or spicy)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 medium onion, sliced into strips
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread or cooked pasta, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick dinner after a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausages:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage links. Cook, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and cooked through, which should take about 8-10 minutes. After cooking, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and start to caramelize. This adds a lovely sweet flavor to the dish!
3. Add Seasonings:
Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant and well combined. This is where your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Combine and Warm:
Slice the cooked sausages into bite-sized pieces and return them to the skillet with the veggies. If you’re using marinara sauce, pour it over the mixture now. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to warm everything through. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve hot on its own, with a side of crusty bread, or over cooked pasta for a hearty meal. Enjoy your delicious Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet!
FAQ for Easy Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Can I Use Ground Sausage Instead of Sausage Links?
Yes, ground sausage works great! Just cook it in the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula until it’s browned all the way through. This can save you a bit of time since you won’t need to slice the sausages later!
What If I Don’t Have Bell Peppers?
No worries! You can substitute bell peppers with other veggies such as zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach. Each option will bring a different flavor and texture to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave.
