Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions is a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions recipe will impress everyone at the table. The combination of savory Italian sausages with sweet bell peppers and onions creates an explosion of flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to prepare and can be enjoyed in so many ways—on a bun, over rice, or simply on its own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it. Just toss everything in the slow cooker.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The blend of Italian sausages with fresh veggies ensures every bite is packed with taste.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a classic dish or serve it on a bun for a delightful sandwich.
• Family-Friendly Meal: Kids love the flavors, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of the show; it allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
• Skillet: Searing the sausages enhances their flavor before they go into the slow cooker.
• Cutting board and knife: These are necessary for safely slicing vegetables, ensuring even cooking.

Ingredients

For this amazing dish, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pkg Italian sausages (5, uncooked)
• 2 bell peppers, sliced (red & green)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1/2 tsp garlic salt (or salt + garlic powder)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce (Rao’s recommended)
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2-3/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese (optional) (not pre-shredded)

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Start by heating a skillet on medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to ensure that your sausages brown nicely.

Step 2: Sear the Sausages

• Place the Italian sausages in the skillet.
• Sear them for 2–3 minutes on each side until they start to brown. You’re not fully cooking them yet; just browning enhances flavor during slow cooking.
• Once browned, transfer them to the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

• Layer sliced onions and bell peppers on top of the sausages.
• Sprinkle garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning over the veggies.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

Spread your marinara sauce evenly over the onion and pepper mixture.

Step 5: Cook It Up!

Cook your sausage and peppers:
Choose high heat for 3–4 hours or low heat for 6–7 hours.
Ensure that the peppers become soft and that your Italian sausage is cooked through.

This recipe not only highlights how easy it is to create a flavorful meal but also showcases how deliciously satisfying it can be when prepared in a slow cooker. Enjoy!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Serving Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions can be as versatile as your taste buds desire. Whether you want a simple meal or something a bit more decadent, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

On a Bun

• Serve the sausage and peppers in a soft, toasted bun for a delicious sandwich.
• Top with melted cheese for an extra indulgent treat.

Over Rice

• Spoon the sausage and pepper mixture over a bed of fluffy rice.
• This will soak up the sauce and add another layer of flavor.

With Pasta

• Mix the sausage and peppers with cooked pasta for a hearty meal.
• A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can elevate the flavors.

As a Standalone Dish

• For a low-carb option, serve the sausage and peppers as is.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley for extra freshness.

Topped with Cheese

• Broil some shredded cheese on top before serving for a melty finish.
• Mozzarella or provolone works wonderfully with this dish.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavors and ensure perfect texture every time.

• Sear the sausages first: Browning them adds depth to the flavor, making your dish more delicious.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and onions yield better taste compared to canned versions.

• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to tweak the garlic salt or Italian seasoning according to your preference for spice or flavor intensity.

• Cook low and slow: If time permits, opt for cooking on low heat to allow all flavors to meld beautifully over time.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Pairing your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions with complementary side dishes can make your meal even more delightful. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce from your main dish.

2. Cauliflower Rice
   A low-carb alternative that adds texture while keeping it healthy.

3. Roasted Vegetables
   A colorful mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender complements the dish nicely.

4. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm sausage mixture.

5. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting base for serving sausage and peppers atop.

6. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrients without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, there are a few common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Searing Step: Failing to sear the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker can result in less flavor. Browning the sausages adds depth and enhances the overall taste.

• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Opting for pre-shredded cheese can lead to a less melty texture. Always choose block cheese and shred it yourself for better results.

• Crowding the Slow Cooker: Overloading your slow cooker can prevent even cooking. Make sure there’s enough space for heat circulation—stick to the recommended amount of ingredients.

• Not Seasoning Properly: Under-seasoning can dull the flavors of this dish. Don’t skip on spices like garlic salt and Italian seasoning; they are essential for a delicious result.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high for too long or low for too short may lead to overcooked sausage or undercooked vegetables. Stick to the recommended times for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil; heat until warm.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use other types of sausages?

Yes, feel free to substitute with chicken or turkey sausages for a lighter option while maintaining great flavor.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions?

You can serve this dish over rice, pasta, or on a crusty bun as a hearty sandwich option.

How do I customize this recipe?

You can add additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition or spice things up with hot sausage.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Use spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is a comforting, flavorful dish that is both easy to prepare and versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try today!