Crockpot Sausage and Peppers

Introduction

Crockpot Sausage and Peppers is a classic Italian-American comfort dish that brings together juicy sausages, tender bell peppers, and flavorful onions in a rich, savory tomato sauce. Slow cooking allows the sausages to become perfectly tender while the peppers and onions soak up all the delicious flavors.

This dish is effortless yet impressive, perfect for weeknight dinners, casual family meals, or even for entertaining guests. It’s a one-pot wonder that captures the essence of Italian home cooking with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet packed with flavor. The slow cooker does all the work, making the sausages tender and juicy, while the vegetables turn soft and sweet. It’s comforting, filling, and pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

The aroma while cooking is heavenly, filling your home with the scent of garlic, onions, peppers, and Italian spices. Every bite is a perfect blend of savory, slightly sweet, and tangy flavors.

Why This is a Must-Try Dish

• Effortless slow-cooker meal with minimal hands-on time.
• Juicy, flavorful sausages perfectly complemented by tender peppers and onions.
• Versatile: serve with pasta, rice, sandwiches, or on its own.
• A hearty and satisfying meal that everyone loves.
• Easily customizable with different sausage types and pepper combinations.

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 4–6 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high
• Total Time: ~4–6 hours

Servings & Nutrition

• Servings: 4–6
• Calories per Serving: ~400 kcal (depending on sausage type)
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian / American

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1½ lbs Italian sausages (mild, sweet, or spicy)
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 2 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil

Optional for Serving:

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread, hoagie rolls, or cooked pasta

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

1. Slice bell peppers and onions into thin strips.
2. Mince garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Sausages (Optional but Recommended)

3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Brown sausages on all sides (about 5–6 minutes).
5. Transfer browned sausages to the crockpot.

Step 3: Add Vegetables and Sauce

6. Place sliced peppers, onions, and garlic on top of the sausages in the crockpot.
7. Pour diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over the mixture.
8. Sprinkle Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
9. Toss gently to combine ingredients (do not break sausages).

Step 4: Slow Cook

10. Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until sausages are cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

11. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
12. Garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley.
13. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or in crusty rolls as sandwiches.

How to Serve

• As a main dish with pasta, rice, or polenta.
• Stuff sausages and peppers into hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich.
• Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Tips

• Brown sausages first for extra flavor and a better texture.
• Don’t over-stir in the crockpot to keep sausages intact.
• Use a mix of colorful bell peppers for visual appeal and varied sweetness.
• Adjust heat by using spicy Italian sausage or adding extra red pepper flakes.

Variations

• Cheesy Sausage and Peppers: Sprinkle mozzarella or provolone over the top before serving.
• Italian Sausage and Mushroom: Add sliced mushrooms to the vegetables.
• Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage and crushed red pepper.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooked sausages and peppers in freezer-safe containers for 2–3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet, oven, or microwave until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Crockpot / slow cooker
• Skillet for optional browning
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q1: Can I skip browning the sausages?
Yes, but browning enhances flavor and helps keep the sausages firm.

Q2: Can I use chicken or turkey sausage?
Yes, adjust cooking time slightly for leaner sausages.

Q3: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble in the crockpot the night before, refrigerate, and cook the next day.

Q4: Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant work well.

Q5: How do I make it spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage and increase crushed red pepper flakes.

Conclusion

Crockpot Sausage and Peppers is a simple, comforting, and flavorful meal that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. With tender sausages, sweet bell peppers, and a savory tomato sauce, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings.

This dish is versatile, easy to customize, and absolutely delicious whether served over pasta, rice, or in a sandwich. A must-try recipe for anyone who loves classic Italian-American flavors!