Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions is a fantastic dish that combines rich flavors and ease of preparation. This Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. With its delightful blend of Italian sausages, vibrant bell peppers, and savory onions, this dish stands out in any setting. You can serve it on a bun for a hearty sandwich or enjoy it as is with melted cheese on top.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work!
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of Italian sausage, peppers, and marinara sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a sandwich, over rice, or with crusty bread.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or game day celebrations.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and veggies, it’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To get started with your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions, you’ll need to gather a few essential tools.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the star of your cooking process! It allows for hands-off cooking while ensuring all flavors meld beautifully.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker; this step enhances flavor.
• Cutting board & knife: Essential for safely slicing your vegetables to ensure even cooking.

Ingredients

For this delicious Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions, you’ll need:

• 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure to slice the bell peppers and onion into even pieces for uniform cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Sausages

• Heat a skillet on medium heat.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
• Sear the Italian sausages for 2–3 minutes on each side until they begin to brown.

Step 3: Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker

• Transfer the browned sausages to the bottom of the slow cooker.
• Layer sliced onions and peppers on top of the sausages.
• Sprinkle garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over the vegetables.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

• Spread marinara sauce over the onion and pepper mix to ensure every bite is flavorful.

Step 5: Cook Your Dish

• Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
• Cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–7 hours until the peppers are soft and sausages are cooked through.

Enjoy this delightful meal straight from your slow cooker!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or as part of a larger meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On a Bun

• Submarine Roll: Serve the sausage and pepper mixture on a toasted roll for a delicious sandwich.
• Slider Buns: Use mini buns for sliders, perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

With Cheese

• Broiled Cheese Topping: After cooking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and broil until melted for an extra indulgent touch.
• Parmesan Garnish: Grate fresh Parmesan over the dish before serving for added flavor.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Rice Bowl: Spoon the sausage and peppers over fluffy rice for a hearty meal.
• Pasta Dish: Mix with cooked pasta to create a comforting Italian-inspired dish.

As a Standalone Dish

• On a Plate: Serve the sausages and peppers directly on plates with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
• In a Bowl: For a casual approach, serve in bowls with some sauce at the bottom.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

To make your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions even better, consider these tips. Each one will help enhance flavors and improve the overall texture of the dish.

• Bold Searing: Start by searing the sausages well. This step adds depth to the flavor by creating caramelization.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh bell peppers and onion for the best taste. Fresh produce significantly enhances flavor compared to frozen options.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving; feel free to adjust salt, garlic, or Italian seasoning based on your preference.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, allow it to rest for about 10 minutes. This lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Sauces: Try different marinara sauces or homemade variations to personalize your dish.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition and variety.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Pairing sides with your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions can enhance your meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this flavorful dish perfectly.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic choice; perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce from your sausage dish.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp salad adds freshness that balances out the richness of the sausages.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes provide a hearty side that pairs well with Italian flavors.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering the main dish.
5. Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as an excellent base, absorbing all those wonderful juices from the sausages.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunchiness that contrasts nicely with the softness of the sausage mix.
7. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad can add protein while offering a refreshing taste alongside your meal.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn complements the savory flavors of sausages beautifully in summer months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can greatly enhance your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions experience. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:

• Skipping the Searing Step: Not browning the sausages first can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Searing adds a delicious crust that enhances the final dish.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking the peppers and onions too long can turn them mushy. Keep an eye on cooking times to ensure they remain tender yet firm.
• Using Low-Quality Sauce: A poor marinara sauce will affect overall taste. Choose a high-quality brand, like Rao’s, for richer flavor.
• Not Measuring Seasonings: Adding too much or too little seasoning can throw off the balance of flavors. Stick to recommended amounts for the best results.
• Ignoring Cook Times: Following incorrect cook times can result in undercooked sausage or overcooked veggies. Always refer to the recommended times based on your slow cooker settings.

Refrigerator Storage

• Item: Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Item: They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Item: Ensure the dish is cooled before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Item: Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Item: Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Item: It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of sausage in this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions?

Yes, you can use different types of sausages like chicken or turkey if you prefer a lighter option. Adjust cooking time if necessary.

How do I customize my Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions?

Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms for added flavor and texture. You can also spice it up with red pepper flakes.

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

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, pasta, or even rice. You can also serve it on hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare all ingredients ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge until you’re ready to cook them in your slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. This dish is perfect for family dinners or meal prep throughout the week. Feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste preferences. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Slow Cooker Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 25 minute
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Slow Cooker Sausage, Peppers, and Onions recipe. This mouthwatering dish features zesty Italian sausages simmered to perfection with vibrant bell peppers and savory onions. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, simply toss your ingredients into the slow cooker, set it, and let it work its magic! Whether served on a toasted bun as a hearty sandwich or enjoyed straight from the pot with melted cheese, this recipe is sure to impress. Packed with protein and veggies, it’s not only delicious but also a nutritious comfort food option.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 5 Italian sausages (uncooked)
• 2 bell peppers (red & green), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 cup marinara sauce (high-quality recommended)
• garlic salt
• Italian seasoning
• black pepper
• olive oil
• shredded mozzarella cheese (optional for topping)

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Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients: Slice bell peppers and onion evenly.
2. Sear Sausages: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; sear sausages for 2-3 minutes until browned.
3. Layer in Slow Cooker: Place browned sausages in the slow cooker. Add sliced onions and peppers on top, then sprinkle with seasonings.
4. Add Sauce: Pour marinara sauce over the layered ingredients.
5. Cook: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours until sausages are cooked through and vegetables are tender.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 7 hours (low)
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 980mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 60mg

Keywords: For best flavor, use fresh vegetables. Experiment with different types of sausage like chicken or turkey for a lighter option. Allow resting time after cooking for enhanced flavors.