Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
If there’s one meal I love coming back to again and again, it’s the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe. It’s got everything you want in a comforting supper: juicy Italian sausage, a rainbow of bell peppers, and sweet onions, all sizzling together in one pan with just the right touch of garlic and herbs. This dish isn’t just easy and speedy—it’s full of bold, homey flavors that make every bite feel like a warm hug. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner frenzy or a lazy Sunday craving, this skillet always delivers big on taste and heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe shine is its honest lineup of fresh, vibrant ingredients. Each one plays a key role: the sausage brings savory heartiness, the peppers brighten things up with sweetness and color, and a few simple seasonings tie the whole dish together in just thirty minutes.
- Italian sausage links: For maximum flavor, go for high-quality sausage—spicy or sweet, depending on your mood.
- Olive oil: Just a tablespoon helps to sear everything to golden perfection while lending richness.
- Red, green, and yellow bell peppers: A trio for the eyes and the palate; each adds subtle sweetness and crunch.
- Onion: Sliced and sautéed, it mellows out and adds a gentle savory accent.
- Garlic: Minced fresh for the best pop of flavor—don’t skimp!
- Italian seasoning: This mix of dried herbs gives the dish its cozy, unmistakable aroma.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a bold kick; add more or less as you like.
- Salt & black pepper: Just enough to bring everything together—taste as you go.
- Chicken broth or water: Adds moisture and helps blend the flavors in the final simmer.
- Chopped parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green at the end perks up the whole skillet beautifully.
How to Make Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your sliced Italian sausage, arranging the pieces in a single layer so they get those irresistible browned edges. Cook for about 5–7 minutes, turning them now and then, until each piece is beautifully golden and cooked through. Once done, scoop the sausage out with a slotted spoon and set it aside—you’ll bring it back soon for the grand finale.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onion
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out—those tasty browned bits are precious flavor!), add all the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sauté them together for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers soften up and the onions start to turn translucent and fragrant. You’ll notice the kitchen starts to smell absolutely amazing right about now.
Step 3: Garlic and Seasonings Go In
Next, toss in the garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir and cook for another minute or so. The sizzling garlic and herbs really kick the aroma up a notch—this is always my favorite part!
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the browned sausage pieces to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth (or water, if you prefer), then stir everything together, scraping up the flavorful bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the whole skillet simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, just until everything’s heated through and the flavors start mingling brilliantly.
Step 5: Finish with Parsley and Serve
If you’re feeling fancy, scatter some chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe piping hot—and be ready for everyone to swarm the kitchen!
How to Serve Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
I love adding a flourish of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh herbiness. A light shower of grated Parmesan can take things over the top, and if you like a bit of zip, add more red pepper flakes right before serving.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal is super versatile. Pile it onto fluffy rice or buttered noodles, stuff it into toasted hoagie rolls for a restaurant-style sandwich, or spoon it over cauliflower rice for a satisfying low-carb dinner. If you want to keep things light, a simple green salad makes a crisp, fresh side.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe into sliders for a party or tuck the filling into a warm tortilla for a fusion twist. Sometimes, I even top a baked sweet potato with the mixture for a colorful spin. Don’t be afraid to get playful—it’s a dish built for sharing and adapting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover sausage and peppers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep fresh for up to three days and are a dream for lunchboxes or quick weeknight dinners the next day.
Freezing
If you want to plan ahead, this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe freezes wonderfully. Let the mixture cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll keep for up to three months—just thaw in the fridge overnight when you’re ready to dive back in.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to loosen things up. You can also microwave individual portions, but the skillet method keeps everything tasting just-cooked and vibrant.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Both turkey and chicken sausage work beautifully in this skillet recipe. They lend a lighter flavor and pair just as well with the peppers and onions, so feel free to use your favorite type.
What’s the best way to cut the peppers for this dish?
I recommend slicing the peppers into about half-inch wide strips. This size cooks quickly but still holds a bit of snap, and when you get a forkful with sausage and veggies, it makes the perfect bite.
Is this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free—just double-check your sausage and chicken broth labels to be sure they contain no hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I add tomatoes or tomato sauce?
Definitely! A few spoonfuls of tomato paste or a splash of marinara sauce can add extra richness and a lovely tang. Try it if you want more of an Italian-American “Sunday sauce” taste.
How can I make the dish less spicy for kids?
Simply skip the red pepper flakes and choose mild Italian sausage for a dish that’s full of flavor but kid-approved. You can always add a sprinkle of spice on your own serving at the table!
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that’s as easy as it is crowd-pleasing, look no further than this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe. It’s quick, colorful, and just bursting with flavor, whether you serve it atop pasta, in a sandwich, or straight from the pan. Give it a try—there’s a good chance it’ll become a regular around your table, too!
Print
Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Sausage and Peppers Skillet recipe is a flavorful and easy one-pan meal that combines Italian sausage with colorful bell peppers and savory seasonings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Ingredients
Italian Sausage:
1 pound Italian sausage links (sliced into ½-inch pieces),
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon,
Bell Peppers:
1 red, 1 green, and 1 yellow (all sliced),
Onion:
1 medium (sliced),
Garlic:
3 cloves (minced),
Italian Seasoning:
1 teaspoon,
Red Pepper Flakes:
½ teaspoon (optional),
Salt:
¼ teaspoon,
Black Pepper:
¼ teaspoon,
Chicken Broth:
¼ cup,
Parsley:
chopped for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook Sausage: Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and onion until softened.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: Return sausage to the skillet, add chicken broth, and simmer to blend flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, hoagie rolls, or cauliflower rice.
- For extra richness, consider adding tomato paste or marinara sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
