This Sausage, Peppers, and Onions recipe is a timeless classic that proves comfort food does not have to be complicated. With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you get a dish that feels hearty, nostalgic, and deeply satisfying. It is the kind of meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aroma and brings people wandering in to see what is cooking.
This recipe serves four to six people and works equally well for a busy weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. You can use sweet Italian sausage for a mild, savory flavor, hot Italian sausage for extra heat, or a mix of both for balance. Bell peppers add natural sweetness, while onions soften and caramelize into something rich and almost silky.
To begin, heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add the sausage, pricking the links first if you are using whole sausages. Cook for six to eight minutes, turning occasionally, until the exterior is nicely browned. Do not worry if the sausage is not fully cooked at this stage. Removing it slightly underdone allows it to finish cooking later while absorbing the flavor of the vegetables. Set the sausage aside once browned.
In the same pan, add the remaining olive oil. Drop in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook for eight to ten minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and develop light charred edges. This step builds the foundation of flavor, so resist the urge to rush it. Letting the vegetables sit between stirs encourages caramelization.
Next, stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about one minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Garlic burns quickly, so keep it moving and watch closely.
Slice the sausage into bite sized pieces if using links, then return it to the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium low, cover the pan, and let everything simmer together for five to seven minutes. This gentle simmer allows the flavors to meld while ensuring the sausage cooks through completely. If you like extra depth, stir in a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce at the end.
Serve the dish hot and fresh. It is delicious on its own, spooned over pasta, paired with crusty bread, or piled into toasted hoagie rolls for a classic sausage sandwich. For a low carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
This meal is also great for meal prep. It keeps well in the refrigerator for three to four days, and the flavors often taste even better the next day. You can boost nutrition by adding spinach or mushrooms during the last couple of minutes of cooking. For a finishing touch, sprinkle with grated Parmesan or fresh parsley.
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