Sautéed Italian Sausage and Peppers

This hearty Italian classic combines juicy sausage, vibrant peppers, and aromatic seasonings for an easy, flavorful dish. Perfect for pasta, sandwiches, or as a standalone dinner!

Ingredients

  • 1–2 tbsp olive oil
  • 16 oz Italian sausage links (hot or sweet; about 5 sausages)
  • 2 medium red bell peppers, seeded and sliced
  • 2 medium green bell peppers, seeded and sliced
  • 1 large onion, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup white wine
  • 1 (14.8 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 tsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Brown the Sausages

  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat.
  • Add sausages and brown on all sides, about 10 minutes.
  • Remove sausages from the pan, slice into 1-inch pieces, and set aside.

2. Sauté Peppers and Onions

  • If the pan looks dry, add another 1 tbsp olive oil.
  • Add the sliced peppers and onions.
  • Cook for 5 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.

3. Add Garlic and Deglaze

  • Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Pour in the white wine and use a wooden spoon to scrape up the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

4. Build the Sauce

  • Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, black pepper, and salt.
  • Return the sliced sausages to the pan.

5. Simmer

  • Let the mixture simmer over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Ensure the sausages reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

6. Serve

  • Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
  • Serve with crusty Italian bread, over pasta, or alongside zoodles for a low-carb option.

Tips for Success

  1. Wine Substitute: Use chicken broth if you prefer to avoid alcohol.
  2. Colorful Peppers: Mix in yellow or orange peppers for extra color and sweetness.
  3. Extra Heat: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! The flavors deepen over time. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

2. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

3. What other proteins can I use?

You can substitute the Italian sausage with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter option.

4. How do I serve this dish?

Serve over pasta, rice, polenta, or in a hoagie roll as an Italian hero sandwich!

Conclusion

Sautéed Italian Sausage and Peppers is a versatile, flavorful dish that fits any occasion. With its rich combination of tender sausages, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic herbs, it’s bound to become a household favorite.

Enjoy this Italian delight with a glass of wine or your favorite side! 🍷

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