Name: Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound Italian sausage links (sliced into 1/2-inch pieces); 1 red bell pepper (sliced); 1 green bell pepper (sliced); 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced); 1 medium yellow onion (sliced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon dried basil; 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup chicken broth or water; Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If you’re looking for a meal that checks all the weeknight dinner boxes — simple, colorful, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes — the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is here to win you over! This Italian-American classic brings together juicy Italian sausage, a trio of bell peppers, and sweet onions in one pan for a hearty dinner with restaurant-caliber flavor. Whether you pile it into hoagie rolls, serve it over pasta or rice, or just scoop it up straight from the skillet, this dish delivers pure comfort and nostalgia with every bite.

Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity — every ingredient selected is essential, adding a distinct note of flavor, texture, or color. Each component plays a starring role, with nothing extra to complicate your dinner routine. Here’s exactly what you’ll need for the perfect Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe:

Olive oil: Just a tablespoon is enough to get everything sizzling and provide a fruity backdrop for the sausage and veggies.
Italian sausage links: Sliced into hearty coins, these bring savory, meaty richness to the dish — use hot, mild, or sweet depending on your mood.
Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
Green bell pepper: Slightly bitter and earthy, rounding out the flavor balance.
Yellow bell pepper: Brings a mellow, sunny sweetness and beautiful golden hue.
Yellow onion: When sliced and sautéed, it becomes lusciously sweet and fragrant.
Garlic: Just two cloves, but they make a world of difference in aroma and depth.
Dried oregano: Essential for that Italian herbaceous note — don’t skip it!
Dried basil: Adds more classic Italian flavor and a hint of sweetness.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little sprinkle gives the skillet a gentle heat, or leave it out for a milder taste.
Salt: Just enough to bring out the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Black pepper: For a touch of mellow, sharp spice.
Chicken broth or water: This deglazes the pan, melding all the flavors together and adding a bit of moisture.
Fresh parsley (optional): For a burst of color and freshness as a final garnish.

How to Make Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil shimmers, add the sliced Italian sausage. As you let the sausage coins sizzle away, turn them occasionally so that every side gets beautifully browned and caramelized. This process usually takes 5 to 7 minutes and not only cooks the sausage through but also releases delicious juices that lay the groundwork for the skillet’s flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onion

Once the sausage is done, take it out of the skillet and set it aside for a moment. In the same pan (don’t wash out those tasty browned bits!), toss in your red, green, and yellow bell peppers and yellow onion. Sauté these vibrant veggies over medium-high heat for about 5 to 6 minutes, stirring every so often. You want the peppers and onions to soften and just start to caramelize, soaking up all those savory sausage flavors as they cook.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings

Now for the magic touch! Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a little heat), along with the salt and pepper. Cook for just about a minute, until the garlic smells fragrant and the herbs release their aromas — be careful not to burn the garlic, or it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Return Sausage and Add Broth

Scoop the browned sausage back into the skillet, nestling it among the caramelized peppers and onions. Pour in the chicken broth or water, then give everything a gentle stir so all the flavors can mingle. Let the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes. The liquids should reduce a bit, the veggies will fully soften, and the sausages will become tantalizingly juicy and infused with herb-and-peppery goodness.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Once everything is heated through and looking mouthwatering, you’re ready to go! If desired, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant, final flourish. Serve the skillet hot, with your favorite sides or however your heart desires — dinner is served!

How to Serve Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

For an irresistible finishing touch, shower your Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe with a handful of freshly chopped parsley. The pop of green wakes up the colors on your plate and brings a subtle, fresh note to balance the richness. If you love extra zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon or some grated parmesan can also be delightful!

Side Dishes

This skillet is perfection all on its own, but don’t hesitate to let it share the plate. Try spooning it over rice or polenta for a comforting meal, or nestle it inside a toasted hoagie roll for a classic sandwich. You can also pair it with simple pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a crisp Caesar salad for a complete spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the basics! Transform your Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe into a breakfast hash by serving it over roasted potatoes with fried eggs on top. Or, layer it onto flatbread, then bake for a few minutes for an Italian-style pizza. Individual portions look beautiful in mini cast iron pans for a fun dinner party presentation, too.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck — this dish tastes just as good (if not better) the next day! Let the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe cool, then pack it into an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days; the flavors will continue to meld and develop.

Freezing

This skillet meal freezes wonderfully. Once cooled, transfer portions to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags, pressing out as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re craving a quick, flavorful meal, just defrost and reheat!

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave — cover loosely and heat until steaming hot, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Can I use chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork?

Absolutely! Chicken or turkey sausage works just as well in this recipe if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just choose a flavorful variety (herbed, spicy, or plain) and cook as directed. You’ll still enjoy all the classic flavors of the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you purchase sausages that don’t contain binders or fillers with gluten. Always double-check your sausage packaging if gluten is a concern for your household.

What’s the best way to slice the sausage?

For a classic look and perfect cooking, slice your sausage links into half-inch thick rounds on a slight diagonal. This helps them brown nicely and gives you just the right bite-to-veggie ratio. If you prefer, you can also use crumbled sausage; just cook it thoroughly before removing from the skillet.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

Certainly! You can slice the sausage and prep all your veggies up to 2 days ahead. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge until you’re ready to cook, making your meal come together even faster on busy days.

What other vegetables could I add?

This Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is endlessly customizable — try adding mushrooms for extra umami, zucchini or eggplant for more veggies, or even a few cherry tomatoes for a juicy burst. Just add these during the vegetable sauté step and cook until softened.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a meal that’s as comforting as it is simple, the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. It’s weeknight-friendly, totally crowd-pleasing, and endlessly adaptable. Grab your skillet, invite a friend over, and get ready to fall in love with this colorful, flavor-packed classic!

Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 5 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is a delicious one-pan dinner that combines savory Italian sausage with colorful bell peppers and aromatic herbs. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage links (sliced into 1/2-inch pieces)
1 red bell pepper (sliced)
1 green bell pepper (sliced)
1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
1 medium yellow onion (sliced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 cup chicken broth or water
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat the olive oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
Cook the sausage: Add sliced sausage and cook for 5–7 minutes until browned. Remove from skillet.
Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add bell peppers and onion. Sauté until softened.
Add seasonings: Stir in garlic, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook briefly.
Combine and simmer: Return sausage to skillet, add chicken broth, and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Garnish and serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot.