Crockpot Italian Sausage Peppers Set It and Forget It
Recipe Introduction: Italian Sausage and Peppers Crockpot Magic!
Fancy a proper easy dinner? I'm talking about that kind of meal where you chuck everything in and walk away.
I remember when I was first starting out cooking... My first attempt at sausage and peppers was a total disaster burnt onions and flavourless sausages.
Never again! This Italian Sausage and Peppers Crockpot recipe is foolproof, and honestly, it's become a family favourite. It's got that classic Italian American comfort food vibe, you know?
Quick Hook
Craving that authentic taste? This Italian Sausage and peppers crockpot recipe delivers big flavour with zero effort. The slow cooking melds sweet peppers, tangy onions, and juicy sausage into an unbelievably delicious meal.
Brief Overview
This dish is a beloved staple in Italian American cuisine, often enjoyed at street fairs and family gatherings. It's as easy as it gets, requiring only about 15 minutes of prep time.
The easy sausage and peppers recipe yields enough for 6-8 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a small get-together.
Main Benefits
One of the best things about this crockpot italian sausage recipe is that it’s packed with protein and vitamins from the vegetables.
It’s the ideal hearty meal for a chilly autumn evening or a casual Sunday lunch. What makes this recipe special is how the slow cooking deepens the flavours and makes the sausage incredibly tender.
Ready to dive in?
Alright, let's dive into what you need to make this Italian sausage and peppers crockpot a reality. Honestly, it's so easy it's almost embarrassing.
This easy crockpot recipes is a winner, winner sausage and peppers dinner.
Ingredients & Equipment: Your Toolkit for Deliciousness
Before we start, just a quick one, If you are looking at italian sausage peppers and onions , feel free to throw in some hotdogs while cooking, there's absolutely nothing wrong with that!
Main Ingredients
- Italian Sausages: 3 lbs (1.4kg) of Italian sausage, your choice of sweet, mild, or spicy. Quality is key here. Get your sausages from a butcher if you can, the flavour difference is unreal! That's what makes it an excellent slow cooker italian recipes .
- Bell Peppers: 2 large (450g) , any color. Red and yellow add a nice sweetness.
- Onion: 1 large (225g) , sliced. Yellow or white, nothing fancy.
- Garlic: 3 cloves (9g) , minced. Fresh is always best.
- Marinara Sauce: 24 oz (700g) jar of your favorite. Don't skimp!
- Diced Tomatoes: 14 oz (398ml) can, undrained. Trust me, it matters!
- Italian Seasoning: 1 tbsp , this recipe is very basic!
- Dried Oregano: 1 tsp .
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/2 tsp (optional, for a kick).
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Olive oil: For searing (optional)
- Fresh basil: For Garnish (optional)
Seasoning Notes: It's All About That Flavor
Essential spice combinations: Italian seasoning and oregano are the base. Flavor enhancers and aromatics: Garlic is a must. Red pepper flakes add heat.
Quick substitution options: If you don't have Italian seasoning, use a mix of dried basil, oregano, rosemary, and thyme.
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker/Crockpot: At least a 6-quart capacity. This is the star of the show for our slow cooker sausage and peppers adventure.
- Large skillet: Optional, for searing the sausages.
- Chopping board
- Knife
For an easy sausage and peppers recipe , this is all you need.
I remember when I first made this crockpot italian sausage recipe , I didn't sear the sausages. It was still good, but honestly, searing them first makes a HUGE difference! The italian sausage slow cooker method is simple.
It's worth it if you have the time. It gives you that awesome crispy texture. Serving on sausage and peppers pasta is always a win.
So grab these bits and bobs and let's get to cooking. It is very simple, very fast and it will provide you with a dish that you can easily transform into a sausage and peppers on a roll , it is amazing.
Okay, mate, let's get this sausage and peppers on a roll! Looking for easy slow cooker Italian recipes ? Here’s a cracking italian sausage and peppers crockpot recipe that’s proper simple.
Get ready for a flavour explosion that’ll become a family favourite. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you just want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen.
I always chuck this in on a Sunday morning and it's ready for tea. I mean dinner.
Cooking Method: Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers Easy Peasy!
Honestly, this recipe for crockpot sausage and peppers recipe is so straightforward, it’s almost cheating! You basically throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do its thing.
Who can resist that? This easy sausage and peppers recipe tastes amazing. It's one of my go-to easy crockpot recipes .
Prep Steps: The Essential Bits
- Essential mise en place: Slice 2 large bell peppers and 1 large onion. Mince 3 cloves of garlic. Easy, innit? This is the italian sausage peppers and onions prep work.
- Time saving organization tips: Chop the veg the night before and store them in an airtight container. Sorted!
- Safety reminders: Just watch your fingers when chopping. No one wants a trip to A&E.
step-by-step: From Raw to Ready
- (Optional) Heat a bit of olive oil in a pan. Brown the 1.4kg/3 lbs of Italian sausages on all sides. This adds a proper depth of flavour!
- Put the sliced bell peppers and onions in the crockpot italian sausage recipe .
- Lay the browned sausages on top of the veg.
- Pour in 700g/24 oz of marinara sauce, 398ml/14 oz can of diced tomatoes, 1 tbsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp oregano, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you fancy a kick!).
- Cover and cook on low for 6- 8 hours or high for 4- 6 hours . Make sure the sausages reach an internal temp of 165° F.
Pro Tips: Elevate Your Sausage & Peppers
- Sear those sausages! It’s worth the effort. Trust me.
- Common mistake to avoid? Overcooking it! Soggy peppers are no fun. Check after 6 hours on low.
- make-ahead option: This is perfect for prepping in advance. Brown the sausage and chop the veg the night before. Then just chuck it all in the slow cooker in the morning! I can have it all the next day, either using as sausage and peppers pasta or using to prepare an awesome sausage and peppers on a roll .
And there you have it! A killer Italian Sausage Slow Cooker recipe. Perfect for slow cooker sausage and peppers . Serve it on a crusty roll, over pasta, or even with some creamy mash.
Enjoy, my friend!
Okay, let's dive into some extra bits and bobs for this italian sausage and peppers crockpot recipe. These are the little things that really make a difference.
Honestly, sometimes these tips are even more important than the main recipe itself! It's like knowing the secret handshake to the best flavour club ever.
Recipe Notes: Ace Your Italian Sausage and Peppers Crockpot
Serving Suggestions: Plating Like a Pro
Right, so you've made this amazing crockpot sausage and peppers recipe . How do you make it look as good as it tastes? If you're going for a sausage and peppers on a roll vibe, grab some crusty rolls.
Toast them lightly, then pile on the italian sausage peppers and onions . A little sprinkle of parmesan cheese never hurt anyone.
For a more sophisticated serving, try it over sausage and peppers pasta . Penne or rigatoni work best. Don't forget a generous dollop of ricotta on top.
A vibrant green salad on the side adds a pop of colour and freshness. And of course, a nice glass of Italian red wine.
Salut!
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Got leftovers? No worries. This easy crockpot recipes dish keeps brilliantly.
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover italian sausage slow cooker in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer safe containers or bags.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge first. Reheating in the slow cooker works too, just takes a bit longer. Honestly, the flavour's even better the next day, you know?
Variations: Tweak it to Your Taste
This recipe is super flexible. It's like the yoga of the food world.
- Dietary: For a lower carb option, serve the slow cooker sausage and peppers over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner version.
- Seasonal: In the autumn, try adding chunks of butternut squash or some roasted red peppers. In summer, fresh basil is an absolute must!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Pot
Alright, let's keep it simple. This easy sausage and peppers recipe is a good source of protein and Vitamin C.
It's also packed with flavour, which is good for the soul, right? Watch the sodium levels, though. Using low-sodium marinara sauce and being mindful of salt can help.
So there you have it. All the extra bits you need to make this crockpot italian sausage recipe truly shine. Now, go get cooking and enjoy. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this italian sausage and peppers crockpot recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely, you can! In fact, the flavours often meld together even better when made a day or two in advance. Just cook as directed, let it cool completely, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat gently in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.
It's like a well aged cheddar, only tastier!
What's the best way to store leftover crockpot Italian sausage and peppers?
Storing leftovers is a doddle. Let the italian sausage and peppers cool down to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. They'll keep happily in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage, up to 2-3 months.
Just make sure to thaw them completely before reheating. They are great in a sandwich, so don't let them go to waste, right?
Can I use different types of sausage in this slow cooker recipe?
You bet your bottom dollar you can! While Italian sausage is traditional, feel free to experiment. Chicken sausage works great for a leaner option, or try spicy chorizo for a bit of a kick. You could even use bratwurst if you fancy a bit of a twist. Think of it as your chance to be a culinary rockstar.
How can I prevent my italian sausage and peppers from being too watery in the crockpot?
Watery sausage and peppers are a bit of a pain, aren't they? To avoid this, try searing your sausages before adding them to the slow cooker it helps render some of the fat. Also, don't add any extra liquid beyond the sauce and canned tomatoes in the recipe.
If you still find it too watery, you can remove the lid during the last hour of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
I'm watching my weight. Are there healthier ways to make Italian sausage and peppers crockpot?
Absolutely! You can make a few simple swaps to lighten things up. Opt for chicken or turkey Italian sausage, which are lower in fat than pork sausage. Load up on the veggies more peppers and onions will add bulk and nutrients.
And consider using a lower sugar marinara sauce, or even making your own from scratch with fresh tomatoes.
What are some good serving suggestions for this Italian sausage and peppers crockpot?
The possibilities are endless, really! Classic Italian sausage and peppers on crusty rolls is always a winner. Alternatively, serve them over pasta with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. For a low-carb option, try serving them over creamy polenta or alongside a simple green salad.
And, because it's important, don't forget the garlic bread for soaking up all that lovely sauce!
Crockpot Italian Sausage Peppers Set It And Forg
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 400-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-40g |
| Fiber | 4-6g |
