This One-Pan Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions is super easy and oh-so-flavorful! Juicy sausages cooked with colorful peppers and sweet onions create a tasty combo that’s sure to please everyone.
I love how everything cooks together in one pan; it makes cleanup a breeze! Pair it with some crusty bread, and you’ve got a meal that feels special but is really simple. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can use any sausage you prefer—mild or spicy. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausages are great alternatives, but keep in mind they may cook a bit faster, so check their doneness.
Bell Peppers: The mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers adds great color and flavor. If you don’t have all three, just use what you have on hand. Green peppers are slightly bitter, while red and yellow add sweetness.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil is my go-to for flavor, but you could swap it out for vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have. Just avoid oils with strong flavors.
Garlic: Fresh garlic makes a big difference in taste. If you don’t have fresh, use garlic powder (1/4 teaspoon per clove) as a substitute, though fresh is so much better!
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Peppers and Onions?
Caramelizing peppers and onions adds a depth of sweetness and flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook over medium to medium-low heat. High heat can burn them rather than caramelize.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
- Add a pinch of salt to draw out moisture, which helps in caramelizing.
- If they start to stick, add a splash of chicken broth or water for deglazing to prevent burning.
By following these steps, you’ll get beautifully tender and flavorful vegetables that enhance the whole dish!
One-Pan Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage links (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced into half-moons
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (optional, for deglazing)
- Fresh parsley or basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious One-Pan Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions takes about 30 minutes total. You will spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and 20 minutes cooking everything together in the pan. It’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sausages:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage links. Cook them until they’re nicely browned on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. When done, remove the sausages from the pan and let them sit on a plate for later.
2. Cook the Peppers and Onions:
In the same skillet, add the sliced red, green, and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Stir occasionally and cook until they are softened and slightly caramelized—this will take about 8-10 minutes. Don’t rush this step; the flavors are so much better when they caramelize!
3. Add Garlic and Seasoning:
Once the peppers and onions are ready, add the minced garlic and the dried Italian seasoning to the pan. Sauté everything for an additional 1-2 minutes until it smells delightful!
4. Combine Sausages and Final Cooking:
Slice the browned sausages into bite-sized pieces and add them back into the skillet. If the pan seems dry or has bits stuck to the bottom, carefully pour in the chicken broth or water to help deglaze. Scrape up those delicious bits as you stir everything together.
5. Finish and Serve:
Let everything cook for another 3-5 minutes, blending the flavors and ensuring the sausages are thoroughly heated. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley or basil before serving.
Enjoy your hearty dish warm, paired perfectly with crusty bread, over rice, or tossed with pasta. Buon appetito!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, feel free to experiment with chicken sausage, bratwurst, or even plant-based sausages for a lighter option. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type of sausage you use to ensure it’s fully cooked.
What Can I Substitute for the Bell Peppers?
If you’re not a fan of bell peppers, you can substitute them with zucchini, mushrooms, or asparagus. Just remember that the cooking time may vary; softer vegetables might need less time to cook while still maintaining some crunch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Yes! This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
