Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of Italian sausages with fresh veggies. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings, as it requires minimal prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the work. Enjoy the savory blend of spices and ingredients, whether served on a bun or as a comforting standalone meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few steps involved, you can set it and forget it. The slow cooker does all the magic while you focus on other tasks.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of Italian sausages, peppers, and onions creates a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it straight from the pot, add melted cheese on top, or pile it onto a warm bun for a delicious sandwich.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. This recipe stores well in the fridge or freezer.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this comforting meal, making it suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

To make this slow cooker sausage and peppers dish, you’ll need some essential tools. Ensuring you have the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This is the heart of the recipe. It allows for effortless cooking while developing deep flavors over time.
• Skillet: Used for searing the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker, enhancing their taste.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing vegetables quick and easy.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping ingredients safely.

Ingredients

For this flavorful Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions recipe, gather these ingredients:

Meat

• 1 pkg Italian sausages (5, uncooked)

Vegetables

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

Seasonings

• 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)

Oil

• 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 on medium heat.
2. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
3. Sear the 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: Layer Ingredients in Slow Cooker

1. Transfer the browned sausages to the bottom of your slow cooker.
2. Add the sliced onions and bell peppers on top of the sausages.
3. Sprinkle with garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Add Sauce

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

Step 4: Cook

1. Cover your slow cooker with its lid.
2. Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours until the peppers are soft and the sausages are cooked through.

This recipe not only delivers rich flavors but also offers ease of preparation that makes it ideal for any occasion! Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Serving Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions can be a delightful experience, as this dish is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

On a Fresh Hoagie Roll

• Enjoy the sausage and peppers stuffed in a hoagie roll for a hearty sandwich. Top with cheese and broil for an extra layer of flavor.

Over Rice or Pasta

• Serve the sausage mixture over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta. This makes for a filling meal that soaks up all the delicious sauce.

With a Side Salad

• Pair your sausage and peppers with a light side salad. The crisp freshness of greens balances the richness of the dish.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it straight from the slow cooker as a comforting main course. This option allows you to savor every flavorful bite without any extras.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking. The melted cheese adds creaminess to each serving.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

To make your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions truly outstanding, consider these helpful tips.

• Sear the Sausages: Browning the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavor, giving you that delicious caramelized taste.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bell peppers and onions bring vibrant colors and improved flavors compared to pre-packaged options.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak seasonings based on your taste preferences. Adding more garlic or red pepper flakes can give it an extra kick.
• Layer Properly: Place sausages at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by vegetables, to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Cook Low and Slow: For best results, opt for low heat settings. This allows flavors to meld beautifully over time.
• Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 10-15 minutes after cooking. This helps flavors settle 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 can elevate your meal further. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread
   Perfect for soaking up excess sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements the dish wonderfully.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   A simple side of steamed broccoli brings color and nutrition, balancing out the rich flavors of sausage.

3. Mashed Potatoes
   Creamy mashed potatoes are an excellent base for this dish, providing comfort food vibes that everyone loves.

4. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad with fresh veggies offers a healthy contrast, making it an ideal pairing alongside this hearty meal.

5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
   These caramelized sprouts add an earthy flavor that pairs nicely with Italian sausage while being nutritious too.

6. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and acidity, enhancing every bite of your savory sausage dish while keeping it fresh.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, it’s easy to make a few missteps. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of:

• Ignoring Searing: Not searing the sausages before slow cooking can lead to less flavor. Searing adds depth and caramelization.

• Overloading the Slow Cooker: Adding too many ingredients can prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recipe’s amounts for best results.

• Skipping Seasonings: Neglecting spices like garlic salt and Italian seasoning can make your dish bland. Always season generously for maximum flavor.

• Not Using Enough Sauce: Too little marinara sauce may result in dry sausages and veggies. Ensure you have enough sauce to keep everything moist.

• Neglecting Cooking Times: Cooking for too long or not enough can ruin texture. Follow the recommended cooking times for perfect results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2-3 months for ideal taste.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes until warmed through; stir in between.
• Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions:

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes! Feel free to use chicken, turkey, or even vegan sausages if you prefer.

How can I customize the vegetables?

You can add zucchini, mushrooms, or any seasonal vegetable that you enjoy for added nutrition.

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

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or pasta. You could also serve it on a sub roll for a hearty sandwich.

How do I know when the sausages are fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 160°F (70°C) when fully cooked.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or spices. Whether served on its own or as part of a hearty meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Give it a try today!