Introduction
There's something undeniably comforting about the combination of juicy Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and savory onions. This dish has been a family favorite for generations, blending rich flavors with simple ingredients. The earthy spices of Italian seasoning and fresh basil, combined with the touch of Marsala wine, create a sauce that's perfect for soaking up with crusty bread or served over creamy mashed potatoes. Whether you're preparing a weeknight meal or hosting a casual dinner, this dish brings the taste of Italy right to your table.
Pro Tip
If you prefer a slightly smokier flavor, try grilling the sausages before adding them to the pan. This extra step adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish, especially when combined with the wine and tomato sauce.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with many sides or can even be enjoyed as a sandwich!
- Over Mashed Potatoes: The creamy, buttery texture of mashed potatoes soaks up the savory sauce beautifully.
- With Polenta: Serve with soft polenta for a hearty, rustic meal.
- As a Sandwich: Hollow out hoagie rolls and fill them with the sausage, peppers, and onions for an incredible sandwich. You’ll love how the juices from the dish soak into the bread, making every bite even more delicious.
- With Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve the dish over cauliflower rice for a lighter, yet satisfying meal.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a few more red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to bring more heat to the dish. You can also use spicy Italian sausage for an extra fiery bite.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the sausage with plant-based Italian sausage or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist without compromising on flavor.
- Add Roasted Garlic: If you love garlic, roast a few cloves and mash them into the sauce for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
- Use Chicken Sausage: For a lighter, lower-fat version, substitute chicken sausage for the regular Italian sausage.
Equipment Needed
- Heavy Large Skillet: Essential for evenly cooking the sausages and developing a rich sauce with all the ingredients.
- Wooden Spoon or Tongs: Useful for stirring the ingredients and flipping the sausages without damaging them.
- Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping vegetables, garlic, and slicing the sausages.
- Measuring Spoons and Cups: Ensures accuracy when adding seasonings and liquids to the recipe.
Tips for Success
- Brown the Sausages Well: Don’t rush the initial browning step; it creates a caramelized crust on the sausages, which enhances the overall flavor.
- Simmer Gently: After adding the sausage back to the skillet, simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken.
- Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a bright, aromatic note to the dish. If you’re using dried basil, reduce the amount to 1 teaspoon.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you have a smaller skillet, cook the sausages in batches. Overcrowding the pan can prevent them from getting a good sear.
- Adjust the Seasonings: Always taste the sauce before serving. If you feel it needs a little more salt or pepper, adjust accordingly.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Italian Sausage, Peppers, and Onions recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s packed with savory sausage, tender peppers and onions, and a rich, tangy sauce made with wine and tomatoes. It’s versatile enough for a family dinner, a weeknight meal, or a satisfying sandwich. The best part? It's easy to make and full of the comforting, rustic flavors of Italy. This is the kind of dish you’ll crave over and over again!
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 2 yellow onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup Marsala wine (or chicken broth)
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- Salt to taste
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook, turning occasionally, until brown on both sides, about 7 to 10 minutes. Remove the sausages from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the Italian seasoning, basil, and garlic. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the Marsala wine (or chicken broth), diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add the optional red pepper flakes, if desired, and mix everything together.
- Add the sliced peppers, onions, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Return the sausages to the skillet with the vegetables. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Serve hot, either over mashed potatoes, polenta, cauliflower rice, or in hoagie rolls for sandwiches.
Nutrition Table
Per Serving (¼ of recipe)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 22g
- Fat: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 950mg
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes! You can use any sausage variety you prefer, including turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the sausage and peppers ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the sausage and pepper mixture for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
4. What if I don’t have Marsala wine?
If you don't have Marsala wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or red wine for a slightly different flavor.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or some diced fresh chilies to the skillet to crank up the heat. You can also use spicy Italian sausage for more kick.
