Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Recipe

Name: Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 6 (4 ounce) links sweet Italian sausage; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 medium yellow onion, sliced; 0.5 medium red onion, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 large red bell pepper, sliced; 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.25 cup white wine, or more to taste

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Craving a delicious, easy-to-make Italian dish? This sausage and peppers recipe is just what you need. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, its the perfect choice for a weeknight dinner that doesnt skimp on flavor.

Ingredients

6 (4 ounce) links sweet Italian sausage
2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil if preferred)
1 medium yellow onion, sliced
medium red onion, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 large red bell pepper, sliced
1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
cup dry white wine (such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
Optional: Chicken broth or beer as a substitute for wine

Directions

Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat the pan over medium heat. Add the sausage links and cook them for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Once browned, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Slice them into bite-sized pieces.
Saut the vegetables: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook them together for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add the peppers and spices: Stir in the sliced red and green bell peppers, followed by the dried basil and oregano. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for about 5 to 7 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and lightly browned.
Deglaze with wine: Pour in the cup of dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any brown bits. Stir everything together and let the wine simmer, allowing the flavors to combine and the wine to reduce slightly.
Combine the sausage and simmer: Return the sliced sausages to the skillet, mixing them with the vegetables. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This will allow the sausage to heat through and soak in the flavors of the vegetables and wine. If needed, add more wine or a bit of water to keep things moist.
Serve: Once everything is heated through and tender, serve hot. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even in a sandwich on a hoagie roll with provolone cheese.

What to Serve With Sausage and Peppers

This hearty dish is already packed with meat and vegetables, but you can easily turn it into a complete meal by pairing it with these Italian-inspired sides:

Simple Broccolini
Gourmet Mushroom Risotto
Italian Baked Zucchini
Creamy Parmesan Polenta
Marilyn's Green Beans Italiano

How to Store Sausage and Peppers

Let the sausage and peppers cool completely before transferring the leftovers into an airtight or zip-top bag. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave, on the stove, or in the oven for the best results.

Can You Freeze Sausage and Peppers?

Yes, you can freeze sausage and peppers! Once the dish has cooled, place it in a freezer-safe or zip-top bag, squeezing out the air. For extra protection, wrap the in foil. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When youre ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.

Nutrition Information

Each serving (1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately:

Calories: 461
Total Fat: 39g (51% of daily value)
Saturated Fat: 15g (76% of daily value)
Cholesterol: 96mg (32% of daily value)
Sodium: 857mg (37% of daily value)
Total Carbohydrate: 7g (3% of daily value)
Dietary Fiber: 2g (6% of daily value)
Total Sugars: 3g
Protein: 17g (34% of daily value)
Vitamin C: 56mg (62% of daily value)
Calcium: 44mg (3% of daily value)
Iron: 2mg (10% of daily value)
Potassium: 445mg (9% of daily value)

Note: These values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet, and individual needs may vary.

Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Recipe

Origin and History:

The dish known as "Sausage, Peppers, and Onions" is a classic example of Italian-American comfort food, with roots deeply embedded in the immigrant culture of the United States. Italian immigrants, particularly those from southern Italy, brought their culinary traditions with them when they moved to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The combination of sausage with peppers and onions quickly became a staple in Italian-American households, known for its simple ingredients and rich flavors. The dish reflects the Italian penchant for hearty, flavorful meals made with easily accessible ingredients. Over the years, it has evolved in various regions of the U.S., becoming a quintessential street food, particularly in cities like New York and Chicago, often served in sandwich rolls at local delis or food trucks.

Regional Variations:

While the basic concept of sausage, peppers, and onions remains constant, different regions of Italy and the U.S. have put their own spin on this dish. In Italy, particularly in southern regions like Sicily and Naples, sausages are often served with a mix of peppers and sometimes tomatoes. The Italian-American version, however, usually includes a dry white wine or broth, which is often omitted in the Italian versions. In the U.S., especially in urban areas, the dish is frequently served on hoagie rolls, with or without provolone cheese, transforming it into a sandwich. In some regions, spicy sausage varieties are used to add heat, while in others, a milder flavor is preferred. Additionally, in New York and Chicago, you'll often find it served with marinara sauce, making it even heartier.

Difference from Similar Dishes:

Though this dish shares some similarities with other Italian-inspired meals, it stands apart in a few key ways. One of the main differences is its simplicity and quick preparation time. Dishes like cacciatore or parmigiana also use sausage and peppers but usually involve more complex ingredients like tomatoes, mushrooms, or cheese, and require longer cooking times. In contrast, Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions is straightforward, focusing on the balance of flavors between the sausage and the vegetables. Another distinguishing feature is its frequent preparation in a single skillet, making it an easy weeknight meal.

Where It's Typically Served:

This dish is often served in a casual setting, especially as a street food or sandwich filling. It's a favorite at Italian-American festivals, local delis, and food trucks, where it is often served on soft sub rolls with a sprinkling of cheese. In addition to being a popular sandwich filling, it also pairs wonderfully with pasta or rice as a hearty dinner option. In Italian-American households, it's a common dinner choice, often enjoyed with family and friends. It's also popular for casual gatherings and barbecues, where the sausage can be grilled and served alongside peppers and onions.

Fun Facts:

In the U.S., Sausage and Peppers is a quintessential dish at Italian-American festivals, particularly during summer celebrations such as St. Joseph's Day or local street fairs.
Some variations of the dish include the addition of other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even tomatoes, depending on personal preferences or regional influences.
The dishs popularity in the U.S. can be attributed to the large Italian immigrant population in cities like New York, which has made it an iconic part of the city's food culture.
While the dish is often associated with Italian-American cuisine, many Italians in southern Italy, where sausage is a popular food, often enjoy sausage and peppers as a traditional meal, though its not as widely known as a specific dish.
It's a highly customizable meal you can use sweet or hot Italian sausages depending on your taste preference. Some people even add beer instead of wine for an extra layer of flavor.

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FAQ about Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Recipe

Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight storage container or zip-top bag. Store in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave, in the oven, or on the stove.

Yes, you can freeze sausage and peppers. Allow the dish to cool, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container (if you use a zip-top bag, make sure to squeeze out all the air). Wrap the container in foil for added protection. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave, in the oven, or on the stove.

Yes, you can substitute sweet Italian sausage with hot Italian sausage if you want a spicier dish. You could also use turkey sausage or chicken sausage as a lighter alternative.

Sausage and peppers can be served on its own, but it's also delicious over pasta, rice, or in a sandwich on hoagie rolls with a slice of provolone. You can also pair it with Italian-inspired sides like roasted vegetables or a simple salad.

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Prepare the sausage and peppers, then store them in the fridge for up to four days. When ready to serve, reheat and enjoy!

Yes, you can use chicken broth, beer, or even vegetable broth instead of white wine if you prefer not to use alcohol. If you decide to skip the wine, you can also increase the amount of seasoning to balance the flavors.

You can add other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences.

To reheat sausage and peppers, you can use a microwave, stovetop, or oven. If reheating on the stovetop, add a small amount of liquid (wine, broth, or water) to prevent the dish from drying out.

The total cooking time for sausage and peppers is about 30 to 45 minutes. This includes browning the sausage, cooking the vegetables, and simmering everything together to allow the flavors to meld.

Comments

James Johnson

09/05/2024 12:38:14 PM

Fantastic! I substituted beer for wine, olive oil for butter, and a yellow pepper instead of green in this recipe. I serve it in rolls and my family absolutely loves it.

Matthew Evans

02/02/2024 08:11:48 PM

Fantastic recipe! My mother taught me how to make sausage and peppers many years ago, and even though I'm not Italian, I absolutely adore this dish! I follow my mom's recipe closely, although I skip the basil and oregano. Instead of using butter, I prefer to fry the vegetables in olive oil. This dish pairs perfectly as a side with angel hair pasta, topped with fresh marinara sauce, and served with Italian bread. Highly recommended!

Andrew Clark

03/08/2023 12:52:30 PM

The best dish I've ever cooked! I used a combination of olive oil and butter to cook a mix of sweet and spicy sausages, and replaced wine with chicken stock. Absolutely delicious!

Jack Parker

10/11/2024 01:34:13 PM

I found that it definitely needed some salt, pepper, more garlic, and seasoning. To enhance the flavor, I added Parmesan bread dipping seasoning and extra liquid to transform it into a sauce. I also sprinkled a bit of red pepper flakes and freshly shredded Parmesan on top. 😊

Jonathan Hill

04/17/2025 04:16:08 AM

I tried a few different versions of this recipe. I included a 14.5 oz can of diced tomatoes, which I drained, and also added 1.5 tablespoons of tomato paste. I enjoyed the extra tanginess from the acidity in the tomato paste.

Edward Thomas

06/03/2025 11:31:04 AM

I have also tried using a sheet tray for this recipe and it turned out great. I decided to include potatoes and chicken as well. Chef John has a fantastic recipe that is very similar to this, but with the addition of chicken thighs. I have made this dish so many times that I've lost count. Apologies for the delayed review, and thank you for sharing such a wonderful recipe.

Scott Miller

07/28/2023 12:51:36 AM

Absolutely delicious! As an Italian myself, I added extra garlic to enhance the taste. I paired it with rigatoni or ziti pasta and sprinkled some parmesan on top. I also opted to slice the sausage before cooking to intensify the flavors. Perfect dish!

Jessica Johnson

11/27/2022 08:13:08 AM

Absolutely delicious outcome! I enhanced the flavors with oregano and crushed red pepper, then incorporated my go-to jarred marinara sauce (Victoria White Linen from Costco). After letting it simmer on medium low for about 20 minutes, I paired it with linguini topped with freshly grated parmesan. Served alongside a tossed salad and garlic bread, this made for a speedy and satisfying weeknight (or any time) meal. Absolutely scrumptious!

Ryan Perez

11/27/2022 04:18:54 PM

This was my first time attempting this dish and I must say, it turned out really well even when served cold. I decided to make some modifications to the original recipe based on recommendations from others. I made sure to fully cook the meat this time, as my initial attempt left the meat too pink. I opted for olive oil over butter, used a whole yellow onion and half a sweet onion rather than red onion. I seasoned the aromatics with salt and pepper to my liking. Instead of using green pepper, I went with red and yellow pepper, and used fresh basil instead of oregano. To make it more saucy, I added a can of petite diced tomatoes when incorporating the sausage back into the skillet. Initially, I was planning to enjoy it on its own, but serving it over angel hair pasta was a great decision. My mom found it very tasty, and I have to agree. I will definitely be making this again!

Jack Hill

04/24/2025 07:36:50 PM

I had a great experience hosting a dinner for all the kids, and everyone absolutely loved it! They all requested the recipe, and have plans to make it again. I decided to double the recipe and used a combination of hot and sweet Italian sausage. After browning the sausage links, I sliced them and browned each side further. I added two cans of diced tomatoes with Italian seasoning (including the juice) to the sautéed veggies, without using wine or beer. While the dish was simmering, I added a few sprinkles of red pepper flakes, basil, and oregano. I served this delicious dish over cilantro lime rice.

Margaret Perez

11/03/2022 05:43:43 PM

My family loved this dish, especially when paired with rice! It's definitely a keeper!

Janet Evans

07/24/2024 04:03:42 PM

Added a pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning, a touch more garlic and wine. The wine truly enhanced the flavors of the dish, loved it!

Ruth Thompson

04/05/2024 09:33:40 AM

Opted for a sweet wine as a substitute, yet the dish turned out to be incredibly delicious.

Ashley Flores

11/09/2023 11:31:38 PM

Great recipe! I enhanced it with crushed red pepper, garlic, and onion powder. Served it over rice. Absolutely delicious.

Cynthia Gonzalez

04/02/2025 03:25:48 PM

Didn't have any red onion on hand, so I opted to use chicken stock instead of white wine.

William Adams

04/19/2025 02:52:23 PM

Excellent! Thank you so much!

Robert Anderson

05/07/2025 01:36:51 PM

This dish turned out fantastic! It will definitely be a regular on my menu. It was easy to make and the taste was delicious.

Nancy Roberts

11/30/2022 02:44:46 AM

This was my first attempt at making it, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it turned out.

Diane Baker

09/07/2024 07:27:26 AM

I prepare this dish frequently! Recently, I made it for a party with 25 guests. I included sautéed mushrooms and halved baby potatoes to make it a heartier meal that could serve more people. I also provided rolls for sandwiches, and everyone thoroughly enjoyed the meal!

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audio version

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