Recipe Card
Hook – Quick Description:
Juicy Italian sausage links cooked with tender peppers and onions — a classic Italian-American comfort dish that’s perfect on its own or piled into a toasted roll.
Servings & Timing:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Dietary Badges:
- 🍖 Protein-Packed
- 🌶️ Comfort Food Classic
- 🥖 Optional Sandwich Style
Ingredients (Checklist Style):
- 1 lb Italian sausage links (mild or spicy)
- 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 sandwich rolls or hoagie buns (optional)
Instructions (Concise & Numbered):
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown sausage links on all sides, 8–10 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, add peppers + onions. Cook 6–8 minutes until softened.
- Combine: Slice sausages, return to skillet. Season with garlic powder, salt, pepper. Cook another 5 minutes.
- Toast Rolls (Optional): Warm rolls in oven at 375°F for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Spoon sausage, peppers, and onions into rolls or serve on a plate.
Additional Notes:
- Mild sausage for a family-friendly version, spicy for extra kick.
- Works great as a meal-prep dish — reheats well.
Brief Introduction
This Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions is a timeless favorite, whether you enjoy it as a hearty skillet meal or in a crusty roll for the ultimate sandwich. It’s bold, colorful, and ready in just over 30 minutes — a perfect weeknight dinner or game-day crowd-pleaser.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1 – Sear the Sausage
- Browning adds flavor and seals in juices.
- Don’t rush this step — caramelization = flavor.
Step 2 – Sauté the Peppers & Onions
- Cook until softened but still vibrant.
- Add garlic powder for extra depth.
Step 3 – Bring It All Together
- Slice sausages before returning to skillet for even bites.
- Season, stir, and let flavors meld.
Step 4 – Serve It Up
- Classic in a toasted roll.
- Or plated with a side salad or roasted potatoes.
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
- Sausage: Pork, turkey, or chicken Italian sausage all work.
- Peppers: Mix red + yellow for sweetness, green for sharper flavor.
- Onions: Yellow onions caramelize best; red adds sweetness.
- Rolls: Sub with whole wheat or skip for a low-carb version.
Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Cheesy Version: Top with provolone or mozzarella before serving.
- Saucy Option: Add marinara sauce for an Italian-American twist.
- Low-Carb Style: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
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Pairings:
- Side salad with Italian vinaigrette.
- Garlic bread for a full meal.
- A cold beer or glass of Chianti.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days in airtight container.
- Freezing: Freeze sausage + peppers (without rolls) for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute bursts.
Nutrition Facts (Estimated, per serving, without rolls)
- Calories: ~380 kcal
- Protein: 19g
- Carbs: 9g
- Fat: 30g
FAQs
Q: Can I grill the sausages instead?
A: Yes — grill, then slice and mix with sautéed peppers and onions.
Q: Can I make this ahead for a party?
A: Definitely! Prepare sausage + peppers, then reheat in a foil tray in the oven.
Q: How can I make it lighter?
A: Use chicken or turkey sausage and reduce the oil to 1 tbsp.
Q: What’s the best roll to use?
A: Crusty hoagie buns or ciabatta rolls hold up best.
