Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers is a delicious and hearty meal that you can easily prepare in your slow cooker. The combination of savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and zesty tomatoes creates a flavorful dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering the convenience of a one-pot meal that requires minimal active cooking time.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes (high)
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 350
• Protein: 24 grams
• Carbohydrates: 14 grams
• Fat: 22 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Sodium: 800 mg

Why Make This Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

There are countless reasons to love this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers recipe. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy individuals or families. Simply prep the ingredients, toss them in the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. The result is a fragrant and satisfying meal that showcases the comforting flavors of Italian cuisine. Moreover, the versatility of this dish allows for customization according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

Creating this flavorful dish is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Directions:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Start by browning the Italian sausage over medium heat in a skillet. This enhances the flavor and helps render some fat, creating a delicious base for your dish.

• Step 2: Mixing

  Once browned, transfer the sausage to the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic, mixing them well.

• Step 3: Cooking

  Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and sprinkle the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure an even distribution of flavors. Cover your slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.

• Step 4: Finishing

  Once the cooking time is complete, serve the dish hot, garnished with fresh basil to add a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your flavorful one-pot meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

This dish shines as a standalone meal, but you can elevate it further by serving it over rice, pasta, or in a crusty sub roll for a delightful sandwich. Pair it with a simple salad or garlic bread to balance the richness of the sausage and the sweetness of the peppers.

How to Store Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish—transferring it to a freezer-safe container will keep it fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

1. Choose Quality Sausage: The quality of Italian sausage significantly impacts the dish. Opt for fresh sausage from your local butcher if possible.
2. Experiment with Peppers: Feel free to mix and match different colored bell peppers—not only will it enhance the dish’s appearance but also add a range of flavors.
3. Add More Veggies: Sneak in other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
4. Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy a kick, look for spicy Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
5. Fresh Herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can enhance the flavors and freshness of the dish.

Delicious Variations

• Sausage and Peppers with Rice: Serve over cooked rice for a complete meal.
• Sausage and Pepper Casserole: Layer the ingredients in a baking dish instead of a slow cooker and bake it in the oven.
• Vegetarian Version: Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage to create a vegetarian-friendly version.
• Mediterranean Twist: Adding olives and feta cheese can lend a Mediterranean flair to the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
  Yes, chicken sausage is a great alternative and will reduce the calories and fat in the dish.

• How can I enhance the flavors of the dish?
  Adding red wine or a splash of balsamic vinegar can deepen the flavors significantly.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?
  Yes, as long as your Italian sausage and canned tomatoes are gluten-free, this recipe is suitable for gluten-free diets.

• Can I cook this dish on high the entire time?
  Yes, cooking on high for 3 hours is the perfect alternative if you’re short on time.

• What sides pair well with this dish?
  Garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables make excellent sides to complement the flavors of the dish.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers is a hearty and satisfying meal that delivers delicious flavors with minimal effort. Its comforting ingredients and versatility make it a favorite among both busy professionals and families. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner or serving it to guests, this dish will surely impress. Try it for your next meal, and savor the warmth and richness that comes with every bite!

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 375 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal with savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and zesty tomatoes, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb Italian sausage
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. Brown the Italian sausage over medium heat in a skillet to enhance flavor and render some fat.
2. Transfer the browned sausage to the slow cooker and add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic, mixing well.
3. Pour in the canned diced tomatoes and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
4. Once cooked, serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Notes

This dish can be served over rice, pasta, or in a sub roll. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 360 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 70mg