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
- Wine Substitute: Use chicken broth if you prefer to avoid alcohol.
- Colorful Peppers: Mix in yellow or orange peppers for extra color and sweetness.
- 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! 🍷