Peppers, Onions, and Sausage

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until it starts to brown, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside. Leave any rendered fat in the pan — this adds flavor to the vegetables.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil if needed.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
3. Add the bell peppers and continue to sauté for 5–6 minutes, until the peppers are tender but still slightly crisp.
4. Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, oregano, and optional red pepper flakes, cooking for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

1. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables.
2. Toss everything together and cook for another 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve hot as a main dish, over rice or pasta, or stuffed into hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese if desired.

Tips for Extra Flavor

• Use a mix of sweet and spicy sausages for a deeper flavor profile.
• Roast the peppers and onions in the oven for a slightly smoky taste before combining them with the sausage.
• Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving; the flavors become even richer.

Why It Works:
This dish balances the savory richness of sausage with the natural sweetness of bell peppers and onions. The spices and garlic enhance the flavors without overpowering them, making it a universally loved recipe. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings.

If you want, I can also create a shortcut one-pan version that’s even faster for weeknight cooking without losing flavor. Do you want me to do that?