Sausage and Peppers with Onions

This Sausage and Peppers with Onions recipe is a hearty, flavorful dinner made with browned Italian sausage, tender bell peppers, sweet onions, garlic, and a savory tomato sauce. Everything cooks together until the sausage is juicy and the vegetables are soft and full of flavor.

It is an easy family meal for busy weeknights, game day, casual gatherings, or meal prep. Serve it on its own, over pasta or rice, or spoon the sausage, peppers, and onions into toasted rolls for a classic Italian-American style dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy browned Italian sausage
• Tender red and green bell peppers
• Sweet sautéed onions
• Rich savory tomato sauce
• Easy one-pan preparation
• Perfect for family dinners
• Great for sandwiches, pasta, or rice

Ingredients

• 6 Italian sausage links, mild or hot
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, optional

How to Make Sausage and Peppers with Onions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the sausage links and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.

The sausages do not need to be completely cooked through yet because they will finish cooking in the sauce.

Transfer the browned sausages to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Peppers and Onions

Reduce the heat to medium.

Add the sliced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and onion to the same skillet.

Cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 3: Add the Garlic

Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Add the Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste and cook for about 1 minute.

This helps develop a deeper tomato flavor.

Step 5: Make the Sauce

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth.

Add the Italian seasoning, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and black pepper.

Stir until well combined.

Step 6: Return the Sausage

Place the browned sausage links back into the skillet and nestle them between the peppers and onions.

Spoon some of the sauce over the sausages.

Step 7: Simmer

Reduce the heat to medium-low.

Cover and simmer for about 15 to 20 minutes, turning the sausages once or twice during cooking.

Continue cooking until the sausages are fully cooked and the peppers and onions are tender.

Step 8: Check Doneness

Pork sausage should reach an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C).

If using poultry sausage, cook it to at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 9: Thicken the Sauce if Needed

If the sauce is thinner than you prefer, remove the lid and simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 10: Taste and Serve

Taste the sauce and adjust the salt and black pepper as needed.

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Sausage and Peppers

• Brown the sausage first: This gives the finished dish deeper flavor and better color.
• Use the same skillet: The browned bits left behind from the sausage add flavor to the sauce.
• Do not overcook the peppers: They should be tender without completely falling apart.
• Use your favorite sausage: Mild, sweet, or hot Italian sausage all work well.
• Let the sauce reduce: A few uncovered minutes at the end gives the sauce a richer texture.
• Check the internal temperature: A meat thermometer is the most reliable way to confirm the sausage is fully cooked.

Easy Variations

Hot Sausage and Peppers

Use hot Italian sausage and increase the crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Sweet Italian Sausage and Peppers

Use sweet Italian sausage for a milder flavor.

Sausage and Peppers with Mushrooms

Add 8 ounces of sliced mushrooms with the peppers and onions.

Cheesy Sausage and Peppers

Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or provolone over the skillet during the final few minutes and cover until melted.

Sausage and Peppers Without Tomato Sauce

Skip the tomato sauce and use about 3/4 cup chicken broth for a lighter version.

What to Serve with Sausage and Peppers

• Hoagie or sub rolls
• Pasta
• Steamed rice
• Mashed potatoes
• Polenta
• Garlic bread
• Roasted potatoes
• Green salad

How to Make Sausage and Pepper Sandwiches

Split sturdy sandwich rolls and toast them lightly.

Add a sausage link to each roll and spoon peppers, onions, and sauce over the top.

For a cheesy version, add provolone or mozzarella and place the sandwiches under the broiler briefly until the cheese melts.

Make-Ahead Instructions

This recipe can be prepared up to 2 days ahead.

Cool completely, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate until ready to reheat.

Storage

Refrigerator

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.

Freezer

Cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container.

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat until hot throughout.

Add a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce becomes too thick.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: About 50 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Course: Main Dish
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Calories: Approximately 430 calories per serving, depending on sausage type

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage is best for sausage and peppers?

Italian sausage works especially well. Mild, sweet, and hot varieties can all be used depending on your preference.

Can I use chicken sausage?

Yes. Chicken sausage works well, but it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I make sausage and peppers without tomato sauce?

Yes. Replace the tomato sauce with additional chicken broth for a lighter version.

Can I add mushrooms?

Yes. Sliced mushrooms pair very well with sausage, peppers, and onions.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes. It reheats well and can be prepared one or two days before serving.

Why is my sauce watery?

Simmer the dish uncovered for several additional minutes so excess liquid can evaporate.

Can I serve sausage and peppers over pasta?

Yes. Spoon the sausage, peppers, onions, and tomato sauce over cooked pasta for a hearty meal.

Can I freeze sausage and peppers?

Yes. Cool completely and freeze in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to three months.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage and Peppers with Onions recipe combines browned Italian sausage, tender bell peppers, sweet onions, garlic, and savory tomato sauce in one easy skillet dinner.

Serve it on its own, over pasta or rice, or inside toasted rolls for a filling family meal that also makes excellent leftovers.