When it comes to quick and easy weeknight dinners, few combinations are as reliable or flavorful as sausage and peppers. This classic pairing can be elevated in countless ways, from spicy Cajun stir-fries to hearty pasta dishes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious sausage and peppers recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
From classic Italian-inspired skillets to innovative twists like sheet pan nachos, these recipes showcase the versatility of sausage and peppers. Whether you’re a busy professional or a busy parent, these one-pot wonders and quick-cooking meals will satisfy your cravings without sacrificing flavor or quality.
In this collection, we’ll delve into the world of sausage and peppers, exploring everything from comforting casseroles to international-inspired dishes that add a global twist to this beloved combination. So grab your favorite sausage and let’s get cooking!
Classic Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pan wonder that combines sweet bell peppers with savory Italian sausage, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the sausage from the pan, leaving any excess fat behind.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the pan; cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
6. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine.
8. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cajun Sausage and Peppers Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy twist on the classic sausage and peppers dish, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with juicy sausage and crunchy bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Cajun sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers, garlic, and Cajun seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Garlic Butter Sausage and Peppers Pasta
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines juicy sausage, caramelized peppers, and a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the sliced peppers to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to caramelize.
5. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Combine the cooked pasta, sausage, and peppers with the garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Sausage and Peppers
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and tangy glaze, perfect for sausage lovers and pepper enthusiasts alike. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 4 sausages (any variety)
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and mustard until well combined.
3. Brush the glaze on both sides of the sausages.
4. Place sausages on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, brush bell peppers with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill bell peppers alongside sausage, turning occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
7. Serve sausage and peppers together, with additional glaze on the side if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Balsamic Roasted Sausage and Peppers
A sweet and savory twist on traditional sausage and peppers, this recipe adds a depth of flavor with balsamic glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sausage, bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.
4. Place the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until sausages are cooked through and peppers are tender.
6. During the last 10 minutes of cooking, brush the balsamic glaze over the sausage and peppers.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Sausage and Peppers Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of sausage, cheese, and bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage mixture, dividing it evenly among the peppers.
6. Top each pepper with shredded cheese and breadcrumbs.
7. Sprinkle paprika over the top of each pepper.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Crockpot Sausage and Peppers with Potatoes
This hearty, one-pot meal is perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day when you need a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare. Simply add your favorite sausage, peppers, potatoes, and spices to the Crockpot and let it do the work.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3-4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the sausage, peppers, potatoes, onion, and olive oil in the Crockpot.
2. Sprinkle the smoked paprika over the top.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low), 3-4 hours (high)
Smoky BBQ Sausage and Peppers Sandwiches
Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of grilled sausages, roasted peppers, and melted cheese on a toasted bun.
Ingredients:
– 4 smoked sausage links (such as andouille or kielbasa)
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Grill sausages for 5-7 minutes per side, or until browned and cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toss peppers with olive oil, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
4. Roast peppers in oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
5. Assemble sandwiches by placing sausages on buns, topping with roasted peppers, and adding shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sausage and Peppers Sheet Pan Nachos
Get ready for a twist on classic nachos with this creative recipe that combines juicy sausage, crispy peppers, and melted cheese all on one sheet pan!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into thin strips
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 corn tortilla chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
3. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
4. Add peppers to the same skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Arrange tortilla chips on the prepared sheet pan in a single layer.
6. Top chips with cooked sausage, peppers, diced tomatoes, and cheese.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle cilantro over top.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
One-Pot Sausage and Peppers Jambalaya
A hearty, one-pot meal that combines the flavors of sausage, peppers, onions, and rice for a deliciously easy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add peppers, onion, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add rice, chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return sausage to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Sausage and Peppers Stir-Fry
Sweet and Sour Sausage and Peppers Stir-Fry Recipe
Get ready to savor the sweet and sour fusion of sausages, bell peppers, and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors!
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp cornstarch
– Vegetable oil for cooking
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook sausages in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove sausages and set aside. Leave drippings in the pan.
3. Add sliced onions and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and chicken broth. Add cornstarch to thicken.
6. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the sausages and vegetables; stir-fry for about 2 minutes to coat.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Sausage and Peppers Flatbread
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this hearty flatbread, loaded with spicy sausage, sweet peppers, and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of flatbread or pita bread
– 1/2 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Warm flatbread by wrapping it in foil and heating for 5 minutes in the oven.
5. Assemble the flatbread by spreading sausage and pepper mixture on top of the warmed bread, followed by crumbled feta cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Peppers Tacos
Add a spicy twist to traditional tacos with this flavorful recipe that combines juicy sausage, crunchy peppers, and savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy sausage (such as chorizo or pepperoni), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers; cook until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
7. Assemble the tacos by placing a spoonful of the sausage-pepper mixture onto a tortilla and topping as desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Creamy Sausage and Peppers Alfredo
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines juicy sausage, sweet peppers, and a velvety Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 4 Italian sausage links, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove sausage from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add garlic to skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth. Bring sauce to a simmer and let it thicken slightly.
6. Add cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine with the Alfredo sauce.
7. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Herbed Sausage and Peppers Risotto
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish that combines the savory taste of herbed sausage with sweet bell peppers, all wrapped up in a creamy risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb herbed sausage (such as Italian-style), sliced
– 2 large red bell peppers, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the diced bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Warm the chicken broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup of broth to the risotto and stir until absorbed. Repeat this process until all broth is used, about 20-25 minutes.
7. Stir in the cooked sausage and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Sausage and Peppers Breakfast Hash
Start your day with a flavorful twist on traditional breakfast dishes. This hearty hash combines spicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and crispy potatoes for a satisfying morning meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking apart with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5 minutes).
3. Add bell peppers, potatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized (about 10-12 minutes).
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Pesto Sausage and Peppers Pizza
Transform a classic pizza into a flavorful masterpiece with the addition of pesto, sausage, and roasted peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread pesto evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Cook sausages in a skillet until browned, then slice into thick coins.
5. Toss peppers and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast in oven for 15-20 minutes or until tender.
6. Top pizza with sausage coins, roasted peppers, and mozzarella cheese.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Maple Glazed Sausage and Peppers Skewers
Sweet and savory, these skewers are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet sausage (such as Italian-style or Chorizo), sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 10-12 wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil.
3. Thread sausage, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers (if using).
4. Brush the glaze mixture evenly over the sausage and vegetables.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill or cook in a grill pan for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until sausage is cooked through and slightly caramelized.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Sausage and Peppers Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy sausage and crunchy peppers with the tender sweetness of zucchinis.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stuff each zucchini boat with the sausage mixture, topping with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Place the stuffed zucchinis on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai-Inspired Sausage and Peppers Curry
This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with a classic sausage and peppers dish, resulting in a bold and aromatic curry perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 chicken sausages (such as Thai-style or Italian-style)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
4. Add the coconut milk and stir to combine. Return the sausages to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Elevate your weeknight dinners with these 20 flavorful sausage and peppers recipes! From classic Italian-inspired skillets to spicy Cajun stir-fries, and from comforting pasta dishes to creative flatbreads, there’s something for everyone. Try a new twist on traditional sausage and peppers or mix-and-match ingredients to create your own unique flavor combinations.
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