Super Easy Sausage and Peppers: A Weeknight Dinner Champion

Sausage and peppers is a classic dish for a reason: it’s incredibly flavorful, satisfying, and, best of all, incredibly easy to make. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious and hearty meal on the table in under an hour. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times – this version of sausage and peppers is streamlined for maximum flavor with minimal effort. We’re talking minimal chopping, simple seasoning, and big, bold flavors that everyone will love. Whether you serve it on hoagie rolls for a satisfying sandwich, over rice for a complete meal, or alongside pasta, this sausage and peppers recipe is a guaranteed winner.

## Why This Recipe Works

This isn’t just another sausage and peppers recipe. It’s the *easiest* sausage and peppers recipe, and here’s why:

* **Minimal Chopping:** We’re using pre-sliced sausages and focusing on simple pepper strips. No need to spend ages at the cutting board.
* **One-Pan Wonder:** Everything cooks in one pan (or skillet), minimizing cleanup. Hallelujah!
* **Simple Seasoning:** A few key spices enhance the natural flavors of the sausage and peppers without overwhelming them.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt this recipe to your taste. Swap out the type of sausage, add onions, or adjust the level of spice.
* **Versatile:** Perfect for sandwiches, pasta, rice, or even as a topping for pizza.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

* **1 pound Italian sausage (sweet, hot, or a combination):** I typically use sweet Italian sausage, but hot sausage adds a nice kick. You can also use a combination of both for a more complex flavor profile. Pre-cooked sausages will also work, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **2 bell peppers (any color, sliced into strips):** Red, yellow, and orange bell peppers are sweeter, while green bell peppers have a slightly more bitter taste. Feel free to mix and match colors for a visually appealing dish.
* **1 large onion (sliced):** While the recipe is designed to be quick and easy without onions, adding sliced onion will significantly improve the flavor profile and add another layer of sweetness. If you are looking for a truly minimal effort recipe, you can skip this ingredient.
* **2 cloves garlic (minced):** Garlic adds a pungent aroma and flavor that complements the sausage and peppers perfectly. Use fresh garlic for the best results.
* **1 tablespoon olive oil:** Olive oil helps to cook the sausage and peppers evenly and prevents them from sticking to the pan.
* **1 teaspoon dried oregano:** Oregano adds a classic Italian flavor to the dish.
* **1/2 teaspoon dried basil:** Basil complements the oregano and adds another layer of herbaceous flavor.
* **1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional):** For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** Season the sausage and peppers to your liking. Be mindful of the salt content of the sausage, as some brands are saltier than others.
* **Hoagie rolls (for serving, optional):** If you’re making sandwiches, you’ll need hoagie rolls. Italian rolls or crusty bread also work well.
* **Optional toppings:** Marinara sauce, provolone cheese, mozzarella cheese, grated parmesan cheese, banana peppers, or other desired toppings.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make super easy sausage and peppers:

**Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables**

* If using whole sausages, slice them into 1-inch thick pieces. Pre-sliced sausages can be used directly from the package.
* Wash and slice the bell peppers into strips. Remove the seeds and membranes.
* Peel and slice the onion.
* Mince the garlic.

**Step 2: Cook the Sausage**

* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
* Add the sausage to the pan and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. If using pre-cooked sausage, you will only need to brown it slightly.
* Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside.

**Step 3: Cook the Peppers and Onions**

* Add the sliced bell peppers and onions (if using) to the same pan.
* Cook, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are softened and slightly caramelized. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pan. Cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.

**Step 4: Combine and Simmer**

* Return the cooked sausage to the pan with the peppers and onions.
* Stir everything together to combine.
* Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This step is crucial for developing the rich, savory flavor of the dish.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste.

**Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!**

* Serve the sausage and peppers on hoagie rolls for sandwiches.
* Alternatively, serve over rice, pasta, or polenta.
* Top with your favorite toppings, such as marinara sauce, provolone cheese, mozzarella cheese, or grated parmesan cheese.

## Tips and Tricks for Perfect Sausage and Peppers

* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** If you overcrowd the pan, the sausage and peppers will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Use high-quality sausage:** The better the quality of the sausage, the better the flavor of the dish. Look for sausage made with natural ingredients and no artificial fillers.
* **Adjust the spice level to your liking:** If you like a lot of heat, add more red pepper flakes. If you prefer a milder dish, omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
* **Add a splash of balsamic vinegar:** A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that brightens up the flavors of the dish.
* **Deglaze the pan with wine:** After cooking the sausage, deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine or red wine. This will add another layer of flavor to the dish.
* **Broil for extra flavor:** For a deeper, slightly charred flavor, transfer the sausage and peppers to a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes before serving. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
* **Let it rest:** After cooking, allow the sausage and peppers to rest for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together even further.
* **Make it ahead:** Sausage and peppers can be made ahead of time and reheated. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or entertaining.

## Variations and Customizations

The beauty of sausage and peppers is that it’s so easy to customize to your liking. Here are a few ideas:

* **Add onions:** As mentioned earlier, adding sliced onions adds a layer of sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. Yellow, white, or red onions all work well.
* **Add mushrooms:** Sliced mushrooms add an earthy flavor and texture to the dish. Use cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms.
* **Add potatoes:** Diced potatoes make the dish more substantial and filling. Use Yukon gold or red potatoes.
* **Add zucchini:** Sliced zucchini adds a touch of sweetness and freshness to the dish.
* **Use different types of sausage:** Experiment with different types of sausage, such as chorizo, andouille, or chicken sausage.
* **Make it vegetarian:** Use vegetarian sausage and add extra vegetables, such as eggplant or chickpeas.
* **Add a touch of sweetness:** A drizzle of honey or maple syrup at the end of cooking adds a touch of sweetness that balances out the savory flavors of the dish.
* **Spicy Sausage and Peppers:** Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
* **Sausage and Peppers with Marinara:** Stir in a jar of your favorite marinara sauce for a saucier dish. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
* **Sausage and Peppers with Balsamic Glaze:** Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
* **Sausage and Peppers with Cheese:** Top with provolone, mozzarella, or parmesan cheese and broil until melted and bubbly.

## Serving Suggestions

Sausage and peppers is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

* **Sausage and Peppers Sandwiches:** The classic way to enjoy sausage and peppers is on a hoagie roll. Top with your favorite toppings, such as marinara sauce, provolone cheese, or banana peppers.
* **Sausage and Peppers Pasta:** Serve over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni. Toss with marinara sauce or a simple olive oil and garlic sauce.
* **Sausage and Peppers Rice Bowl:** Serve over white rice, brown rice, or quinoa. Top with your favorite toppings, such as salsa, avocado, or sour cream.
* **Sausage and Peppers Pizza:** Use sausage and peppers as a topping for pizza. Combine with mozzarella cheese and marinara sauce.
* **Sausage and Peppers Salad:** Serve over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens. Top with a vinaigrette dressing.
* **Sausage and Peppers Omelet:** Add sausage and peppers to an omelet for a hearty and flavorful breakfast.
* **Sausage and Peppers Frittata:** Add sausage and peppers to a frittata for a quick and easy brunch or lunch.
* **Sausage and Peppers Stuffed Peppers:** Stuff bell peppers with a mixture of sausage, peppers, rice, and cheese. Bake until tender.
* **Sausage and Peppers Skewers:** Thread sausage and peppers onto skewers and grill or bake. Serve with a dipping sauce.
* **Sausage and Peppers Nachos:** Top tortilla chips with sausage and peppers, cheese, and your favorite nacho toppings.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

* **Can I use frozen peppers?**
* Yes, you can use frozen peppers. However, they may release more water during cooking, so you may need to cook them for a longer time to evaporate the excess moisture.
* **Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?**
* Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and peppers in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
* **Can I freeze sausage and peppers?**
* Yes, you can freeze sausage and peppers. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
* **How do I reheat sausage and peppers?**
* You can reheat sausage and peppers in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. Reheat until heated through.
* **What is the best type of sausage to use?**
* The best type of sausage to use is a matter of personal preference. Sweet Italian sausage is a classic choice, but you can also use hot Italian sausage, chorizo, andouille, or chicken sausage.
* **Can I make this recipe without oil?**
* You can make this recipe without oil, but the sausage and peppers may stick to the pan. If you’re using a non-stick pan, you may not need to add any oil. Otherwise, you can use a small amount of water or broth to prevent sticking.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

* Calories: 400-600
* Protein: 25-35g
* Fat: 25-40g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

## Conclusion

This super easy sausage and peppers recipe is a weeknight dinner savior. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal on the table in no time. So, ditch the takeout menu and give this recipe a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Enjoy your delicious and easy sausage and peppers!