Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions: The Ultimate One-Pan Classic
Simple steps turn basic ingredients into a mouthwatering feast with comforting flavors.
Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
Italian sausage, peppers, and onions is the epitome of hearty, home-cooked comfort food. This classic dish balances savory sausage with sweet, caramelized peppers and onions, all gently sautéed with garlic and Italian herbs. Whether layered on a crusty roll or served over pasta, this recipe is a staple of Italian-American kitchens and an enduring favorite for its robust flavors and weeknight-friendly preparation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan simplicity – minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Versatile – perfect for sandwiches, over pasta, or enjoyed on its own.
- Comforting – hearty, satisfying, and nostalgic.
- Quick and easy – ready in under an hour with simple, accessible ingredients.
Ingredients
You don’t need a lot of fancy ingredients for this sausage and peppers recipe. Each component plays an essential role in creating the depth and balance of flavors.
- Italian Sausage: Sweet Italian sausage is the most commonly used, but for a spicier kick, substitute half with hot Italian sausage.
- Butter: Adds richness; olive oil can be used as a lighter alternative.
- Onions: A blend of yellow and red onions adds sweetness and complexity; use all yellow for a milder flavor.
- Garlic: Freshly minced for that authentic Italian aroma.
- Bell Peppers: A mix of red and green bell peppers creates a vibrant color contrast and sweet, slightly bitter flavor.
- Dried Basil and Oregano: Traditional Italian herbs for flavor.
- Dry White Wine: Pinot grigio or sauvignon blanc recommended. May substitute with chicken broth or beer for a twist.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
Ingredient Table
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Italian Sausage | 6 links | Sweet or mixed with hot variety |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Can substitute with olive oil |
| Yellow Onion | 1 (sliced) | Use 1.5 yellow onions for milder taste |
| Red Onion | 1/2 (sliced) | Optional for color and flavor |
| Garlic | 4 cloves (minced) | Fresh preferred |
| Red Bell Pepper | 1 (sliced) | For sweetness and color |
| Green Bell Pepper | 1 (sliced) | For mild bitterness |
| Dried Basil | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Dry White Wine | 1/4 cup | Or chicken broth/beer |
| Salt & Pepper | to taste |
Step-by-Step Directions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet or pan over medium-high heat, cook the sausages until nicely browned on all sides, about 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, melt butter (or olive oil) over medium heat. Add sliced onions and sauté for 3–5 minutes, then add minced garlic and bell peppers. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and fragrant (about 7–10 minutes).
- Season: Sprinkle in the dried basil and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
- Deglaze: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan’s bottom. Let simmer for about 2 minutes, letting alcohol cook off.
- Combine and Finish Cooking: Return the sausages to the pan. Cover and simmer everything together for another 15 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Slice sausages if desired and mix with the peppers and onions. Serve immediately on their own, over pasta or rice, or piled high on toasted sandwich rolls.
Tips for Success
- Choose quality sausage for the best flavor—look for Italian sausages from your local butcher or favorite brand.
- Mix sweet and hot sausage if you like a bit of heat but don’t want it overpowering.
- Slice vegetables evenly for uniform cooking.
- Don’t skip the deglazing step—that’s where you’ll capture all the savory, caramelized flavors from the pan.
- Try chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter but still flavorful version.
Serving Suggestions
This sausage, peppers, and onions dish is delicious in a variety of ways. Try these ideas for a complete meal:
- Sandwiches: Pile the sausage, peppers, and onions into hoagie rolls or Italian bread, top with provolone or mozzarella, and broil until melty.
- With Pasta or Rice: Toss with cooked penne, spaghetti, or serve over fluffy rice for a hearty bowl.
- On its Own: Serve with a side salad or roasted potatoes for a gluten-free option.
Variations and Additions
- Add tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes or fresh cherry tomatoes can add extra sauciness and sweetness.
- Include potatoes: Slice and roast with the sausages or sauté in the pan for a filling meal.
- Try different peppers: Yellow or orange bell peppers bring more sweetness and vibrant colors.
- Add mushrooms: Sliced cremini or button mushrooms blend well with the other vegetables.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Place cooled portions in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking or drying out.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 356 | – |
| Total Fat | 27g | 35% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 52mg | 17% |
| Sodium | 1128mg | 49% |
| Carbohydrates | 9g | 3% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g | 6% |
| Total Sugars | 4g | – |
| Protein | 18g | 36% |
| Vitamin C | 50mg | 56% |
| Calcium | 32mg | 2% |
| Iron | 2mg | 9% |
| Potassium | 435mg | 9% |
*Nutrition values are approximate and will vary based on brands and substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Sausage, peppers, and onions can be made ahead and reheated. The flavors often deepen after a night in the fridge.
Q: Can I use chicken or turkey sausage instead?
A: Absolutely. Chicken or turkey sausage works well for a leaner meal and still delivers great flavor.
Q: What can I use instead of wine?
A: Chicken broth or light beer both make excellent substitutes for dry white wine, keeping the dish flavorful and moist.
Q: Can this dish be made in the oven?
A: Yes. After browning the sausage and sautéing the veggies, combine everything in a baking dish and bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbling and fragrant.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Add extra hot Italian sausage or crush in some red pepper flakes during cooking for added heat.
Community Tips and Reviews
“This is my go-to for quick dinners! Sometimes I double the vegetables and use a mix of sausage types.”—Kelly
“Love how easy it is to substitute with whatever wine or stock I have on hand. Always a crowd-pleaser.”—Sam
Final Thoughts
This Italian sausage, peppers, and onions recipe is proof that the best meals are sometimes the easiest ones. With a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a meal reminiscent of beloved Italian street fairs and family dinners. Whether you’re new to classic Italian-American cooking or looking for a new favorite weeknight meal, this dish delivers every time.
References
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/76808/italian-sausage-peppers-and-onions/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/242281/super-easy-sausage-and-peppers/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aPzkuPWuR0
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/214500/sausage-peppers-onions-and-potato-bake/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/86415/daddys-sausage-and-peppers/
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