Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions is a delightful dish that combines savory Italian sausages with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a burst of flavor with minimal effort. Whether served as a hearty meal on its own or as a filling for sandwiches, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process melds the flavors of the sausages, peppers, and marinara sauce beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a standalone dish, on a bun, or topped with cheese.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for family dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep for the week.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and protein without compromising on taste.

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Tools and Preparation

To make this dish successfully, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker, enhancing their flavor.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts when slicing your vegetables for even cooking.

Ingredients

Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions is a super easy yet amazing dish that is packed with flavor. Serve the Italian sausages straight from the pot, broil a little cheese on top, or serve on a bun.

For the Sausage

• 1 pkg Italian sausages (5, uncooked)

For the Vegetables

• 2 bell peppers, sliced (red & green)
• 1 large onion, sliced

Seasoning

• 1/2 tsp garlic salt (or salt + garlic powder)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Sauce

• 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce (Rao’s recommended)

For Cooking

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

Optional Topping

• 1/2-3/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese (not pre-shredded)

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Step 1: Sear the Sausages

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
3. Sear Italian sausages for 2-3 minutes on each side until they start to brown. This step enhances their flavor without fully cooking them.

Step 2: Prepare Vegetables

1. Transfer the browned sausages to the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Layer sliced onions and bell peppers over the sausages.
3. Sprinkle garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning evenly over the vegetables.

Step 3: Add Sauce

1. Spread marinara sauce evenly over the onion and pepper mixture in the slow cooker.

Step 4: Cook Your Dish

1. Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours.
2. Check that peppers are soft and sausages are fully cooked through before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Serving your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions can elevate this dish even further. The rich flavors of the Italian sausage, combined with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions, create a delightful meal that can be enjoyed in various ways.

On a Bun

• Toasted Sub Roll: Serve the sausage and peppers on a toasted sub roll for a classic sandwich experience. Add some provolone cheese for extra flavor.
• Garlic Bread: Use garlic bread as a base for the sausage mixture, adding an aromatic touch to your meal.

With Cheese

• Broiled Mozzarella: Top the slow cooker mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and broil until bubbly for an indulgent twist.
• Parmesan Sprinkles: Finish off each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.

As a Standalone Dish

• Over Rice: Serve the sausage and peppers over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Polenta: Pair with creamy polenta for a comforting Italian-inspired meal.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

To achieve the best results with your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions, consider these handy tips that will enhance flavor and texture.

• Sear the sausages first: Searing the sausages in a skillet before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavor through browning.
• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh bell peppers and onions. They add more flavor than frozen or canned options.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your marinara sauce before using it. You can adjust spices according to your preference for a tailored flavor profile.
• Cook low and slow: For maximum tenderness, cook on low heat. This allows all flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Add extra veggies: Feel free to include other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the dish rest for 10 minutes. This helps flavors develop even more before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Pairing side dishes with your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions will complement its robust flavors. Here are some delicious suggestions:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a delectable base for soaking up juices from the dish.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color, texture, and health benefits to your meal.
3. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides a refreshing balance to the hearty sausage dish.
4. Pasta Salad: A light pasta salad dressed in vinaigrette pairs nicely, offering contrasting textures.
5. Crusty Italian Bread: Serve alongside fresh bread for dipping into flavorful sauces or simply enjoy on its own.
6. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds brightness without overpowering the main dish; drizzle with olive oil before serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the dish’s final quality. Here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the Searing: Not browning the sausages first can lead to a lack of depth in flavor. Always sear them for a few minutes to enhance the overall taste.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Opt for freshly shredded mozzarella for the best texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the Peppers: Cooking on high too long can make peppers mushy. Monitor cooking time to keep them tender yet firm.
• Ignoring Seasoning Adjustments: Depending on your sauce, you may need to adjust seasoning. Taste as you go to ensure balanced flavors.
• Not Using Enough Sauce: A lack of sauce can lead to dry results. Ensure there’s enough marinara coating all ingredients for moisture and flavor.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Place cooled portions in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until heated through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions.

Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can use chicken or turkey sausage if you prefer a lighter option. The cooking time may vary slightly.

What vegetables can I add?

You can add mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach for extra nutrition and flavor. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make this recipe low-carb?

To make it low-carb, serve it over cauliflower rice instead of bread. You can also skip adding cheese if desired.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage for more heat. Customize it based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is not only delicious but also extremely versatile. You can enjoy it on its own or customize it with your favorite toppings like cheese or fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep—give it a try today!