If you are searching for an easy, flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve just found it with this Sausage and Roasted Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe. The marriage of savory Italian chicken sausage with the sweetness of roasted red and yellow peppers creates a vibrant, mouthwatering dish that’s bursting with color and character. Every bite offers tender peppers, juicy sausage, and a hint of herbs and spice that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s a simple recipe with bold flavors that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are beautifully straightforward yet crucial for crafting the perfect balance in this Sausage and Roasted Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe. Each component plays a unique role, from the juicy sausage providing protein to the colorful bell peppers adding sweetness and texture.
- Precooked Italian chicken or turkey sausage (12-ounce package): This is the star protein, pre-cooked to save time while packing robust Italian flavors.
- Red bell pepper (1 medium): Adds vibrant color and a slightly sweet taste that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Yellow bell pepper (1 medium): Offers a milder sweetness and beautiful golden hue to the dish.
- Yellow onion (1 small): Brings a subtle sharpness and soft texture after roasting.
- Extra virgin olive oil (3 tablespoons): Ensures everything roasts beautifully with a silky finish and rich flavor.
- Red wine vinegar (2 teaspoons): Adds brightness and balances the rich sausage and roasted veggies.
- Garlic (2 minced cloves): Provides an aromatic base that enhances every bite.
- Kosher salt (½ teaspoon): A key seasoning that brings all the flavors together.
- Dried basil (½ teaspoon): Adds a fragrant, herbal note that pairs wonderfully with Italian sausage.
- Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Complements the basil with its earthy, slightly peppery taste.
- Ground black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives a gentle kick to the flavor profile.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon plus more to taste): Provides warmth and a bit of heat to keep things interesting.
- Optional garnishes: Thinly sliced fresh basil, chopped parsley, or freshly grated Parmesan cheese for extra freshness and depth.
How to Make Sausage and Roasted Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature is essential for roasting the peppers and sausage to caramelized perfection while keeping everything juicy and tender. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Slice the precooked sausage into ½-inch rounds and the bell peppers and onion into ¼-inch strips. Arrange everything on your baking sheet. Drizzle with the olive oil and red wine vinegar, then sprinkle generously with minced garlic, salt, dried basil, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Toss everything well to ensure every piece is coated with these flavorful seasonings.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
Spread the mixture out in a single layer to maximize even roasting. Pop the tray into the preheated oven and roast for 25 to 35 minutes. Halfway through, give everything a good toss to ensure the peppers soften evenly and the sausage edges crisp up just right. You’ll know it’s done when the peppers turn tender and slightly caramelized, and the sausage sizzles with beautifully browned spots.
How to Serve Sausage and Roasted Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes brings a delightful brightness that contrasts the roasted flavors. Thinly sliced fresh basil or chopped parsley add a splash of green and fresh herbal notes, while a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese lends a salty, nutty richness to each bite. These simple touches can elevate the dish from comforting to memorable.
Side Dishes
This skillet dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve alongside crusty garlic bread to soak up any flavorful juices or accompany it with creamy polenta or fluffy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance and rounds out the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling fancy? Present your Sausage and Roasted Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe in individual cast iron skillets for a rustic, restaurant-quality touch. Alternatively, stuff the roasted pepper and sausage mixture into warm pita pockets or serve over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice for an easy, handheld option. This dish is versatile and welcomes your creative presentation ideas.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making it a fantastic option for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This Sausage and Roasted Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe freezes wonderfully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Be sure to label everything so you can enjoy this delicious meal anytime without hassle.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Warm in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through and the sausage regains its tasty crispness. Alternatively, microwave on medium power, stirring halfway, until hot.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sausage instead of precooked?
Absolutely! If using fresh sausage, cook it thoroughly in a skillet first before combining with peppers and roasting to ensure it’s safe and delicious.
What kind of bell peppers work best?
Red and yellow bell peppers are ideal for their sweetness and vibrant colors, but feel free to experiment with orange or green peppers based on your preference.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a touch of heat, but it’s mild enough to adjust by adding more or less depending on your spice tolerance.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version that still tastes fantastic.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free sausage and verify your spices do not contain gluten additives.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about a dish like this Sausage and Roasted Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe that combines ease, flavor, and the ability to adapt to your pantry and preferences. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that’s hearty without being heavy, colorful enough to brighten your table, and flexible enough for many variations. I truly hope you give it a try and find the same joy in this simple but sensational meal as I do every time I make it.
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Sausage and Roasted Bell Peppers Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Sausage and Peppers recipe features Italian chicken or turkey sausage roasted alongside colorful bell peppers and onions, seasoned with herbs and spices for a flavorful and easy meal. Perfectly roasted in the oven, this dish is a hearty and vibrant dinner option that can be served on its own or topped with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 (12-ounce) package precooked Italian chicken or turkey sausage, cut into ½-inch rounds
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced into ¼-inch strips
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced into ¼-inch strips
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced into ¼-inch strips
Seasonings and Oils
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 2 teaspoons)
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, plus additional to taste
Optional for Serving
- Thinly sliced fresh basil
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: On the prepared baking sheet, arrange the sausage rounds, red and yellow bell pepper strips, and yellow onion slices evenly. Drizzle the mixture with olive oil and red wine vinegar. Sprinkle minced garlic, kosher salt, dried basil, dried oregano, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes over everything. Toss gently to ensure all ingredients are well coated with seasonings and oil.
- Roast: Spread the coated sausage and vegetable mixture in a single layer on the baking sheet. Place it in the oven and bake for 25 to 35 minutes, tossing the mixture halfway through the cooking time to ensure even roasting. The peppers should be tender and the sausage heated through when done.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the sausage and peppers hot. Optionally, garnish with thinly sliced fresh basil, chopped fresh parsley, or freshly grated Parmesan cheese to enhance flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use precooked sausage to reduce cooking time and ensure meat is fully cooked.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Serve with crusty bread, over pasta, or with rice for a complete meal.
- Fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese add extra depth and freshness but can be omitted for a simpler dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
