Flavor-Packed Italian Sausage and Peppers – A Hearty, Classic Dinner for Any Night

Few meals capture the essence of comfort quite like Italian Sausage and Peppers. With its rich tomato sauce, caramelized onions, and tender bell peppers wrapped around juicy sausage, this dish is the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is an Italian-American classic that never goes out of style. It’s hearty, simple to make, and can be served in so many ways — from over pasta to tucked into crusty rolls or even as bite-sized finger food for parties.

If you love hearty, comforting meals, you’ll also enjoy our Ground Beef Wellington or Keto Meatball Parmesan Casserole, both of which make delicious, crowd-pleasing dinners.

Save

What Is Italian Sausage and Peppers?

Italian Sausage and Peppers is a traditional Italian-American dish featuring sautéed sausage links and colorful bell peppers cooked with onions, garlic, and tomatoes. It’s flavorful yet simple — proof that classic ingredients can create magic when cooked with care.

This dish can be made on the stovetop, in the oven, or even in the crockpot, depending on your schedule. The combination of juicy sausage and tender vegetables in a light tomato sauce makes it versatile — perfect for busy weeknights or festive weekends.

For another Italian-inspired favorite, try our cheesy Vegetarian Baked Ziti or Cheesy Pasta Bake with Pumpkin Tomato Sauce.

Why This Recipe Works

This easy Italian Sausage Recipe hits all the right notes because:

• It’s easy to prepare with minimal prep time.
• The flavor develops beautifully whether you pan-sear or slow-cook it.
• It’s a healthy Italian dinner when made with lean sausage and fresh veggies.
• The leftovers are just as delicious reheated the next day.

If you’re a fan of slow-cooked comfort, you’ll love our Slow Cooker Chicken Stew for another cozy dinner option.

Ingredients for Italian Sausage and Peppers

This recipe uses just a handful of simple ingredients you likely already have on hand.

Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 ½ pounds Italian sausage links (mild, sweet, or spicy)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, thinly sliced
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

If you want to make it even heartier, serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside our Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini.

Save

Kitchen Equipment Needed

To make this flavorful sausage dinner, you’ll need:

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Optional: slow cooker (for Sausage and Peppers Crockpot version)

If you love using minimal tools for maximum flavor, you’ll also enjoy our One-Pot Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya.

How to Make Italian Sausage and Peppers

Follow these simple steps for perfect sausage and peppers every time.

1. Brown the Sausage
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage links and cook until browned on all sides (about 7–8 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Peppers
   In the same skillet, add sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened and lightly caramelized. Add garlic and cook another minute.
3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
   Stir in the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Simmer with Sausage
   Return the sausages to the pan. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes until everything is tender and flavors meld beautifully.

Save

• Serve and Enjoy
  Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

This dish pairs perfectly with a side of Cheddar Bay Biscuits or soft Cottage Cheese Flatbread.

Save

How to Make Crockpot Sausage and Peppers

Busy day ahead? This Sausage and Peppers Crockpot version is just as flavorful and even easier.

1. Brown the sausage in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side.
2. Add to your slow cooker with sliced onions, peppers, garlic, and tomatoes.
3. Stir in seasonings and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

The result? Tender sausage that melts in your mouth, infused with rich pepper and tomato flavor.

Tips for Perfect Italian Sausage and Peppers

• Use a mix of red, yellow, and green peppers for color and sweetness.
• Browning the sausage first adds a deep, caramelized flavor.
• Don’t overcook — you want the peppers tender but not mushy.
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a subtle tang.
• Garnish with parsley or basil for freshness.

If you like meals full of flavor and balance, you’ll also enjoy our Sweet Chili Meatballs or Garlicky Kale with White Beans and Lemon.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the browning step: You’ll lose that rich flavor.
• Overcrowding the pan: This prevents proper caramelization.
• Overcooking vegetables: They should stay slightly crisp.
• Using too much sauce: Keep the ratio balanced for best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe can be served in countless ways:

• Over spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni for a traditional Italian dinner.
• On toasted hoagie rolls with melted mozzarella for a hearty sandwich.
• Over mashed potatoes or polenta for a cozy meal.
• In bite-sized portions for party-style finger food.

For an elegant side dish pairing, try our Scalloped Potatoes or Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin.

Variations You Can Try

• Spicy Sausage and Peppers: Use hot Italian sausage and add extra chili flakes.
• Sweet Sausage Version: Use sweet Italian sausage with caramelized onions.
• Sausage and Peppers Pasta: Toss with cooked noodles and Parmesan.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Vegetarian Twist: Use plant-based sausage for a healthy Italian dinner idea.

If you love customizable dishes, check out our Spicy Edamame Stir Fry with Tofu for another versatile recipe.

Healthier Swaps

To make this dish part of your Healthy Italian Recipes collection:

• Use chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork.
• Swap olive oil for avocado oil.
• Reduce sodium by using no-salt-added tomatoes.
• Add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini.

For another lighter yet flavorful option, try our Cucumber Shrimp Salad — a refreshing complement to this rich dish.

What to Serve With Italian Sausage and Peppers

Round out your meal with:

• Garlic Butter Corn with Melty Cheese
• Roasted Butternut Squash
• Vegetarian Pasta Primavera
• Lavender Lemonade for a refreshing non-alcoholic drink.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigerate: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave.
• Freeze: Store cooled sausage and peppers in freezer bags for up to 2 months.

For easy freezer-friendly ideas, check out our Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches.

Italian Sausage and Peppers as Finger Food

Want to serve this dish at a gathering? Slice sausages into smaller pieces and spear with toothpicks. Serve alongside warm rolls and dipping sauce for crowd-pleasing appetizer snacks.

Pair with our fun Snake Charmer’s Pretzels or savory Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs for the ultimate party platter.

Save

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, the flavors develop even more after resting overnight.

Can I use frozen peppers?
Yes, but thaw and drain them before cooking to avoid extra liquid.

Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stove?
Yes, bake covered at 375°F for about 35–40 minutes.

Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely — add crushed red pepper flakes or use hot sausage.

What’s the best sausage to use?
Use Italian pork or turkey sausage for authentic flavor.

Try This Flavorful Sausage and Peppers Recipe Tonight!

This Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With simple ingredients, a few easy steps, and big, bold flavors, you’ll have a hearty, satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and subscribe to the blog for more comforting Italian and global-inspired dishes like our Creamy Mushroom Pasta and Sweet Potato and Chickpea Curry.

Print