Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions is a delicious and easy dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet onions. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It’s incredibly versatile; serve it straight from the slow cooker, add cheese for a melty finish, or pile it onto a bun for a hearty sandwich. The combination of flavors and textures ensures that this dish will impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With minimal chopping and no complicated steps, this recipe is great for beginners.
• Flavorful Results: Slow cooking allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a dish rich in flavor.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as-is, or use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week—perfect for quick lunches or dinners.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Ideal for parties or family gatherings; everyone loves sausage and peppers!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather some essential tools before you start. Having the right equipment on hand will ensure your slow cooker works efficiently and effectively.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Skillet
• Tongs
• Cutting Board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker; this step enhances flavor.
• Tongs: Great for flipping sausages easily without making a mess.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

• 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

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Step 1: Sear the Sausages

Heat a skillet on medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.

Step 2: Brown the Sausages

Sear the Italian sausages for 2–3 minutes on each side until they start to brown. You aren’t trying to cook them through; just browning them adds flavor during slow cooking. Transfer them to the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Place the sliced onions and peppers on top of the sausages. Sprinkle with garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Pour Sauce

Spread marinara sauce over the onion and pepper mixture evenly.

Step 5: Cook

Cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–7 hours until peppers are soft and sausages are cooked through.

This slow cooker sausage and peppers recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a family meal, serving Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions is easy and delicious.

On a Bun

• Serve the sausage on a toasted bun for a hearty sandwich. Top it with extra marinara sauce for added flavor.

With Broiled Cheese

• After cooking, sprinkle shredded Mozzarella cheese on top of the sausages and broil until bubbly. This adds a delightful cheesy layer.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Spoon the sausage, peppers, and onions over cooked rice or pasta for a filling meal. The marinara sauce makes it extra tasty.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it straight from the slow cooker as a simple, flavorful dish. Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

In Tacos

• Use soft tortillas to create tacos filled with sausage and pepper mixture. Add avocado or sour cream for extra richness.

Stuffed Peppers

• Use the mixture to stuff halved bell peppers and bake until tender. This adds an interesting twist to your meal presentation.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

To make your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions even better, follow these handy tips.

• Choose Quality Sausages: Select fresh Italian sausages for the best flavor. Look for those made with high-quality ingredients.

• Layering Matters: Place sausages at the bottom of the slow cooker. This allows them to infuse their juices into the peppers and onions.

• Sear Before Cooking: Browning the sausages enhances their flavor before slow cooking. Don’t skip this step!

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add red pepper flakes if you want some heat or adjust Italian seasoning according to your taste.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables make a noticeable difference in taste. Try to use fresh bell peppers and onions for vibrant flavors.

• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 10 minutes after cooking before serving. This helps meld all the flavors together beautifully.

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 experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up extra sauce, garlic bread is always a hit alongside Italian dishes.

2. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad offers a crisp contrast to the warm, savory sausage dish.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables complement the dish’s flavors while adding nutritional value.

4. Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as an excellent base, absorbing all the delicious juices from the sausage mixture.

5. Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes provide comfort; their creaminess balances out the spiciness of the dish.

6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overpowering flavors.

7. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad can add texture while being a healthy alternative.

8. Pasta Salad: A chilled pasta salad offers a nice contrast in temperature that pairs well with this warm dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Not browning the sausages: Skipping the searing step can lead to less flavor. Browning adds depth, so always sear the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker.

• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking on high for too long can make your peppers and onions mushy. Set your slow cooker to low if you prefer firmer veggies.

• Using the wrong sauce: Not all marinara sauces are created equal. Choose a high-quality sauce like Rao’s for the best taste in your dish.

• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: The balance of garlic salt and Italian seasoning is key. Taste and adjust these seasonings based on your preference for flavor.

• Not using enough liquid: If your slow cooker isn’t working well, it might be due to insufficient sauce. Always ensure there’s enough sauce to keep everything moist during cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They last up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Make sure the dish has cooled down before sealing.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The meal can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until hot.

• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions take to cook?

The dish takes about 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low in the slow cooker, depending on your preference for tenderness.

Can I use other types of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage is traditional, you can experiment with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegetarian options for a different twist.

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

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, pasta, or even as a topping for rice. You could also serve it in buns as a delicious sandwich option!

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions?

Yes! This meal freezes well. Just make sure to store it in airtight containers to maintain its flavor.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. With its rich flavors, you can customize it with different sausages or sauces based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Slow Cooker Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 0 hours
• Yield: Serves approximately 5 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine with this Slow Cooker Sausage, Peppers, and Onions recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish combines juicy Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and sweet onions for a meal that is as easy to prepare as it is delicious. The slow cooking process melds the flavors beautifully, creating a dish that’s rich and satisfying. Enjoy it straight from the slow cooker, atop a toasted bun for a hearty sandwich, or over rice or pasta for a filling dinner. With its versatility and crowd-pleasing appeal, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite.

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Ingredients

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• 1 package Italian sausages (5 uncooked)
• 2 bell peppers (sliced: 1 red, 1 green)
• 1 large onion (sliced)
• ½ tsp garlic salt
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• Optional: ½ – ¾ cup shredded Mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat; add olive oil.
2. Sear the sausages for 2–3 minutes on each side until browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. Layer sliced onions and peppers over sausages; sprinkle with garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.
4. Pour marinara sauce evenly over the top.
5. Cook on high for 3–4 hours or low for 6–7 hours until the sausages are cooked through and vegetables are soft.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: High - 3–4 hours / Low - 6–7 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/5 of recipe (approximately 200g)
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 70mg