Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5–7 minutes. If you’re using sausage links, you can slice them into 1-inch pieces once browned. Remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside, leaving the flavorful drippings in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced onions and peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and continue to cook for another 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
Step 4: Combine Sausage and Veggies
Return the browned sausage to the pan with the vegetables. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Stir everything together and cook for another 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the peppers to become tender but still slightly crisp.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is cooked and the flavors are blended, remove the pan from heat. You can serve this dish hot on its own, over rice or pasta, or in toasted hoagie rolls for a classic Italian-style sandwich. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
- Choose quality sausage: The flavor of the dish relies heavily on the sausage, so pick a good-quality Italian sausage.
- Mix pepper colors: Using red, yellow, and green peppers not only makes the dish visually appealing but also adds a balance of sweetness and earthiness.
- Don’t overcook the vegetables: You want the peppers to be tender but still have a slight crunch. Overcooking can make them mushy.
- Add a splash of wine or broth: For extra flavor, deglaze the pan with a little white wine or chicken broth before returning the sausage to the pan.
Conclusion
Sausage, peppers, and onions is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, comforting dish that combines the savory richness of sausage with the natural sweetness of peppers and onions. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, anyone can make this flavorful classic at home. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or an easy weeknight treat, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
If you want, I can also create a shortcut one-pan version that’s ready in under 30 minutes for faster cooking without losing any flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Do you want me to do that?
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