This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is a savory and satisfying dish, perfect for any weeknight. The sausages are tender and juicy, slow-cooked to perfection with sweet bell peppers and onions that soften and caramelize, making every bite deliciously comforting.
This meal is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort. It’s ideal for busy days when you want a tasty homemade dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen. Serve it over a bed of rice, with some crusty bread, or on a sub roll for a hearty sandwich!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy)
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2 bell peppers, sliced
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1 onion, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
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1/4 cup chicken broth
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 teaspoon dried basil
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausages and brown them on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the garlic, bell peppers, and onions. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
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Place the browned sausages in the slow cooker. Add the sautéed vegetables, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
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Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the sausages are cooked through and the peppers are tender.
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Once cooked, remove the sausages and slice them. Return the sliced sausages to the slow cooker and stir everything together.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 6-7 hours | Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes | Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or even weekend get-togethers. The slow cooker takes care of the cooking, allowing the ingredients to meld together beautifully while you focus on other tasks or relax.
What makes this dish particularly irresistible is the contrast of textures. The sausages become melt-in-your-mouth tender as they slowly cook in the flavorful sauce, while the peppers and onions soften and caramelize, enhancing their natural sweetness. The result is a savory, sweet, and slightly spicy meal that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
Perfect for Busy Weeknights
One of the main reasons this Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is so popular is because it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Instead of spending hours in the kitchen, you can prep the ingredients in just a few minutes and let the slow cooker do the rest. As the sausages and peppers cook slowly throughout the day, your house will be filled with mouthwatering smells that will have everyone eagerly awaiting dinner.
Additionally, the slow cooker method ensures that the sausages are tender and flavorful, without the need for constant attention. Once everything is added to the pot, you can simply set it and forget it, freeing up your time to tackle other tasks or enjoy some relaxation.
Versatile Meal Options
While this dish is delicious on its own, there are countless ways to serve it, making it a versatile addition to your recipe repertoire. Serve it over a bed of white or brown rice for a filling, complete meal. If you prefer something a little lighter, enjoy it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad. For a more indulgent option, serve it on a sub roll to create a hearty sandwich that’s sure to satisfy any craving.
You can also get creative with the types of sausages you use. Whether you prefer mild or spicy Italian sausages, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your tastes. You can even use turkey or chicken sausages for a leaner option without compromising the flavor.
Making It Your Own
Another great aspect of this Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is that it’s highly customizable. While the basic ingredients remain the same, you can experiment with different additions and substitutions based on your preferences. For example, you can toss in some mushrooms for extra flavor, add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of tang, or include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant boost.
If you’re looking to make the dish spicier, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add some sliced jalapeños to the slow cooker. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can skip the red pepper flakes altogether and opt for sweet Italian sausages. The possibilities are endless!
Nutritional Benefits of Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers
While this dish is undoubtedly delicious, it also offers some nutritional benefits, especially when made with lean sausages and a variety of vegetables. Italian sausages are a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles. The bell peppers and onions provide important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Vitamin C, in particular, plays a crucial role in supporting the immune system and promoting healthy skin.
By using a slow cooker to prepare this meal, you’re also retaining more nutrients from the vegetables and sausages compared to traditional cooking methods, which can sometimes cause nutrient loss through high heat. Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the nutrients to remain intact, creating a balanced, flavorful meal that’s not only satisfying but also good for you.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is a great option for meal prepping, especially if you’re someone who likes to have meals ready to go during the week. Once the dish is prepared, it can be easily stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well, making it a convenient option for future meals. Simply portion it out into individual servings and store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for later use.
When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If you’ve frozen the dish, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This makes it a great choice for busy families or individuals who need quick and satisfying meals throughout the week.
Making It a Family Favorite
This Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and full of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Plus, because it’s so versatile, it can be served in a variety of ways to suit the preferences of every family member.
Kids will love the mild, savory taste of the sausages, while adults can enjoy the complex flavors brought out by the peppers, onions, and spices. It’s a meal that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and is guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.
Conclusion: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish for Any Occasion
In conclusion, Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers is the ultimate comfort food. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding your family after a busy day or hosting a casual dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. The slow-cooked sausages are tender and juicy, while the peppers and onions bring a natural sweetness that balances the spices. With minimal prep time and the convenience of the slow cooker, it’s a dish that will quickly become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, this Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers recipe is the perfect choice. It’s simple, flavorful, and can be customized to suit your tastes, making it an ideal option for anyone who loves good food without the fuss.