Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is a comforting dish that celebrates bold flavours and vibrant colours. Juicy sausages are browned to perfection, then simmered with a mix of sweet bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs. The result is a savoury blend that can be enjoyed in multiple ways—tucked into a sandwich roll, served over pasta, or plated with rice or polenta. This dish is versatile, making it ideal for weeknight dinners as well as festive gatherings.
Italian Sausage, Peppers, & Onions :
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance of simplicity and flavour. The sweetness of peppers pairs perfectly with the richness of sausages, while onions add depth and aroma. Adding a splash of white wine or crushed tomatoes enhances the dish, creating either a light sauté or a saucier version depending on preference. Rooted in Italian-American tradition, it has remained a beloved staple across family kitchens and street festivals.
History:
Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is a staple in Italian-American households, especially in New York and New Jersey. Rooted in the traditions of Southern Italian immigrants, the dish gained popularity at street festivals and fairs, particularly the Feast of San Gennaro. Its vibrant colours and bold flavours represent the heart of Italian-American comfort food.
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Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds Italian sausages (mild or hot)
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow) – sliced
- 2 large onions – sliced
- 3 cloves garlic – minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (optional for saucy version)
- ½ cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
- Fresh parsley – chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
- Brown sausages on all sides, then remove and set aside
- In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until softened
- Add wine to deglaze the pan, then stir in crushed tomatoes and herbs
- Return sausages to the skillet, cover, and let simmer until fully cooked
- Adjust seasoning as needed
- Garnish with parsley before serving
Notes
- Choose mild or hot Italian sausages depending on your spice preference.
- Use a colorful mix of bell peppers for both flavor and presentation.
- The dish can be served dry (without tomatoes) or saucy (with crushed tomatoes).
- Tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
Tips for Sausage:
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Brown sausages first for a richer flavor before simmering with peppers and onions.
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Add a splash of wine to deglaze the pan and enhance depth.
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For sandwiches, slightly reduce the sauce so the filling is thicker.
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Always slice sausages after cooking for a juicier texture.
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Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
FAQs for Sausage:
Q: Can I use chicken or Turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes, lighter sausages work well, though the flavour will differ slightly.
Q: Do I have to add tomatoes?
No, the dish can be made “dry” with just peppers, onions, and sausage.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
Q: What type of peppers are best?
A mix of red, green, and yellow bell peppers gives the best flavour and colour.
Q: Can I freeze sausage, peppers, and onions?
Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months.
Conclusion:
Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is a timeless favourite that combines simplicity with bold flavour. Whether served on its own, over pasta, or in a sandwich, this dish is versatile and crowd-pleasing. Rooted in Italian-American tradition, it remains a must-try comfort food that brings families together at the table.