When the days start to cool and the evening calls for something comforting, I reach for this sausage and peppers dish. It’s a delicious recipe that feels like a warm hug on the plate, blending savory sausage with sweet bell peppers and a rich tomato sauce.

One chilly evening, my kitchen filled with the sizzling sound of sausages browning, the aroma of garlic and herbs swirling through the air. The colorful peppers softened slowly, their sweetness balancing the spicy tang of the sausage. I remember the moment I lifted the first forkful to my mouth—the textures mingling perfectly, the sauce clinging to each bite just right. It was the kind of meal that made me pause, savoring the mix of flavors and the cozy atmosphere it created. That night, the simple combination of ingredients brought a sense of home and warmth I hadn’t realized I was craving.

Combines savory Italian sausage with sweet, tender bell peppers for balanced flavor
Simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce with herbs and a touch of heat
Versatile enough to serve on its own or stuffed in a sandwich for a hearty meal
Quick prep and cooking time—ready in under an hour, perfect for weeknights
Leftovers keep well and reheat beautifully for easy lunches

If you’re worried about making a dish that feels heavy, this one strikes a lovely balance between rich and fresh, especially with the burst of fresh parsley at the end. It’s satisfying but not overwhelming, making it a go-to for both busy evenings and relaxed weekends.

Sausage & Peppers

Print Recipe

A classic Italian-American dish featuring savory sausages cooked with sweet bell peppers and onions in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect served on its own or in a sandwich.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound Italian sausage links
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large yellow onion, sliced
3 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green, 1 yellow), sliced into strips
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the Italian sausage links to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 10-12 minutes. Remove sausages from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 7-8 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Slice the cooked sausages into 1-inch pieces and return them to the skillet.
Simmer the mixture over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld.
Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh parsley before serving.

FAQ

Can I use different types of sausage? Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional here, you can experiment with spicy or sweet sausages depending on your preference.

Is this dish good as leftovers? Yes, it actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Can I freeze this recipe? It’s best not to freeze once cooked because the texture of the sausage and peppers can change after thawing.

What sides go well with Sausage & Peppers? Try it over pasta, polenta, or simply with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Next time you want a meal that feels like a cozy evening in, give this sausage and peppers recipe a try. It’s a simple way to add warmth and flavor to your table.