Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions is a delightful dish that brings comfort to any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this recipe showcases the rich flavors of Italian sausage combined with sweet bell peppers and savory onions. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal with minimal effort. Serve it on a bun for an easy sandwich or enjoy it straight from the pot with melted cheese on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Flavorful Dish: The combination of spices and sauces creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills your kitchen.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a sandwich, over rice, or alongside pasta for different meal experiences.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for family dinners, game day, or potlucks—everyone will love this comforting dish.
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out veggies or add your favorite spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious slow cooker sausage and peppers dish, gather your tools ahead of time. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process and ensure a smooth experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is essential for creating tender meat and melding flavors over several hours without constant attention.
• Skillet: Searing the sausages before slow cooking adds depth of flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Chef’s knife: A good knife ensures precise cutting of vegetables, making prep quick and efficient.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Sausage

• 1 pkg Italian sausages (5, uncooked)

For the Vegetables

• 2 bell peppers, sliced (red & green)
• 1 large onion, sliced

For Seasoning

• 1/2 tsp garlic salt (or salt + garlic powder)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For Sauce

• 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce (Rao’s recommended)

For Cooking

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

Optional Topping

• 1/2-3/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese (not pre-shredded)

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Step 1: Sear the Sausages

1. Heat a skillet on medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
2. Sear the Italian sausages for 2-3 minutes on each side until starting to brown. This adds flavor while slow cooking.

Step 2: Assemble in Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the browned sausages to the bottom of a slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced onions and peppers on top of the sausages.
3. Sprinkle with garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce

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

Step 4: Cook

1. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours until peppers are soft and sausage is fully cooked through.

This simple yet flavorful recipe makes dinner planning effortless while delighting your family with every bite!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Serving Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions is a delightful experience for your taste buds. This dish is versatile, allowing for various serving options that enhance its flavor and presentation.

On a Sub Roll

• Toasted sub rolls make a perfect vessel for the savory sausages. Fill them generously with the sausage, peppers, and onions, then top with melted cheese for an indulgent sandwich.

With Pasta

• Serve over cooked pasta for a hearty meal. The marinara sauce clings beautifully to the noodles, creating a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy this dish on its own for a low-carb option. The combination of sausage, peppers, and onions is filling enough without any sides.

Topped with Cheese

• Broil some shredded mozzarella cheese on top before serving. This adds a deliciously gooey layer that enhances the overall flavor.

In Lettuce Wraps

• For a fresh alternative, use large lettuce leaves as wraps. Fill them with the sausage mixture for a light and crunchy option that’s also great for meal prep.

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:

• Sear the Sausages – Browning the sausages beforehand enhances their flavor in the slow cooker. This step adds depth to every bite.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh bell peppers and onions provide better texture and flavor compared to frozen alternatives. Opt for vibrant colors for visual appeal.

• Adjust Seasoning – Feel free to tweak the spices based on your taste preferences. Adding crushed red pepper flakes can give it an extra kick!

• Cook Low and Slow – Cooking on low heat allows flavors to meld beautifully. If you have time, opt for the longer cooking time to maximize flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions can elevate your meal even further. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – Crunchy garlic bread complements the saucy dish wonderfully, perfect for soaking up extra sauce.

2. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious element while providing a mild flavor contrast.

3. Cauliflower Rice – A great low-carb option that soaks up the flavors of the sausage blend beautifully.

4. Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad can offer a nice balance of textures alongside this hearty dish.

5. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal experience.

6. Coleslaw – A crisp coleslaw offers crunchiness that pairs nicely with the soft textures of sausage and peppers.

7. Baked Sweet Potatoes – The sweetness from baked sweet potatoes contrasts well with savory flavors in this dish.

8. Rice Pilaf – A fragrant rice pilaf serves as an ideal base, allowing you to enjoy every morsel of sausage goodness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Skipping the Searing Step: Not browning the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker can lead to a less flavorful dish. Searing enhances the taste, so always take a few minutes to brown them first.

• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Adding too many ingredients at once can cause uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts to ensure everything cooks properly.

• Ignoring Cooking Times: Cooking on high for too long or low for too short can result in undercooked meat or mushy vegetables. Follow the suggested cooking times for best results.

• Using Low-Quality Sauce: The marinara sauce greatly influences the final flavor. Opt for a high-quality sauce like Rao’s for a richer taste instead of generic brands.

• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting seasoning before serving can lead to bland results. Always taste your dish before finishing and adjust seasonings as needed.

• Avoiding Cheese: Skipping cheese may seem like a healthy option, but it adds wonderful creaminess. If you enjoy cheese, consider adding a little Mozzarella on top before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe dishes, covering loosely. Heat in intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions:

Can I use turkey sausages instead of Italian sausage?

Yes! Turkey sausages are a great alternative if you prefer a leaner option while still enjoying great flavor.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add heat, include sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes when layering your ingredients. Adjust according to your spice tolerance!

Is there a vegetarian version of Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions?

Absolutely! Substitute Italian sausage with plant-based alternatives available at most grocery stores for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes! Feel free to mix and match bell peppers with other varieties like poblano or banana peppers based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is not only full of flavor but also offers excellent versatility. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or changing up the type of sausage used. Whether served on its own, over pasta, or in sandwich form, this dish is sure to please any crowd. Give it a try today!