If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors, vibrant colors, and a satisfying mix of textures, this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. It brings together perfectly browned andouille sausage slices and sweet bell peppers sautéed with tender onions and fragrant garlic, all seasoned with Italian herbs and a hint of heat. This skillet meal is a quick and easy way to transform simple ingredients into an irresistible dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward and come together effortlessly to create a dish that’s colorful, flavorful, and well-balanced. Each item plays an important role in bringing out the savory, slightly sweet, and mildly spicy taste that makes the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe so memorable.
- Olive oil, 2 tablespoons: Essential for browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables with rich, fruity undertones.
- Andouille sausage, 12 to 14 ounces: Provides smoky, spicy flavor and a satisfying meaty bite that anchors the dish.
- Red bell pepper, 1, thin strips: Adds sweetness, vibrant color, and crisp texture contrast.
- Yellow bell pepper, 1, thin strips: Brings a milder sweetness and sunny brightness that complements the other veggies.
- Small yellow onion, 1, thin strips: Offers natural sweetness that deepens as it cooks and balances the spice from the sausage.
- Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon: A fragrant blend of herbs that lifts the whole skillet with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Garlic, 4 cloves, minced or pressed: A punch of sharp, aromatic flavor that infuses the dish with warmth.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To season and enhance every component’s natural taste.
- Red pepper flakes, ½ teaspoon (optional): Adds a touch of extra heat for those who like a little kick.
- Green onion, sliced: Provides a fresh, crisp garnish that brightens the flavors.
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil: Adds an herbal freshness that completes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Heat and Brown the Sausage
Begin by warming 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the andouille sausage slices in a single layer and cook until they are beautifully browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. This browning is crucial—it builds a rich, smoky base flavor that’s simply irresistible. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside to rest while you prepare the vegetables.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onions
Turn the heat up to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the red and yellow bell pepper strips along with the sliced onions. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the vegetables and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes. This allows them to soften just enough to be tender but still maintain a little crispness, giving you wonderful texture and vibrant color that makes the dish pop.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Next, stir in the minced garlic, then season the vegetables with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste. Let everything cook together for another minute so the garlic can release its intoxicating aroma without burning, marrying the flavors beautifully within your skillet.
Step 4: Return the Sausage to the Skillet
Now, add your browned sausage slices back into the skillet. Mix everything together and cook for just another minute or so until the sausage is warmed through. This step allows the flavors from the sausage and vegetables to marry perfectly, making every bite a harmonious blend of smoky, sweet, and savory goodness.
Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Garnish
Give your skillet a final taste and tweak the seasoning if needed. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes to your preference. Finish by garnishing with the sliced green onions and a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley or basil. These fresh herbs add a lovely brightness that balances all the robust flavors.
How to Serve Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish to the next level. The green onions add a crisp, oniony bite while fresh parsley or basil brings a refreshing herbal note. Red pepper flakes can be added on top to taste for that little extra punch of heat. These finishing touches make the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe not just delicious but visually enticing as well.
Side Dishes
You can enjoy this skillet concoction all on its own for a low-carb, protein-rich meal. But if you want to make it heartier, consider serving it over fluffy rice, creamy polenta, or your favorite pasta noodles. Crusty bread is also fantastic for soaking up the flavorful juices, turning every bite into a little moment of joy.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the sausage and pepper mixture inside toasted hoagie rolls for a sandwich-style dinner. Another idea is to pile it on thickly over warm flatbreads or pizzas, adding melted cheese for a comforting meal. No matter how you present it, the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe shines in every format.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from your Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as delightful. Simply cover and chill, then reheat when ready to enjoy.
Freezing
If you want to save this dish for longer, it freezes well. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re craving this comforting skillet again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat your Sausage and Peppers Skillet, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. You can also microwave it covered for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring midway, until hot. Adding a splash of water or broth can help reintroduce moisture if the dish feels dry.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While andouille sausage offers great smoky spice, you can swap in Italian sausage, chorizo, or even chicken sausage depending on your preference. Just be mindful of cooking times and seasoning adjustments.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use sausages without gluten-containing fillers or additives. Always check labels to confirm.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can easily make a meatless version by replacing the sausage with hearty plant-based sausage or even roasted mushrooms. The peppers and onions carry enough flavor to keep it deliciously satisfying.
How spicy is the dish with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a moderate kick, but they are entirely optional. You can skip them or adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance, making the dish as mild or spicy as you like.
What’s the best way to cut the sausage and peppers?
Slice the sausage into thin rounds about an eighth to a quarter inch thick for even browning and easy eating. Cut the bell peppers and onions into similarly thin strips so they cook quickly and maintain a good texture contrast.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like comfort food made easy and elegant at the same time. With its colorful presentation, bold flavors, and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something satisfying without fuss. Give this recipe a try—you’ll soon find it becoming a cherished favorite in your meal rotation, just like it is in mine!
Print
Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring browned andouille sausage, sautéed colorful bell peppers, and onions seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a hearty, comforting dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 12 to 14 ounces andouille sausage, cut into thin rounds (between ⅛-inch and ¼-inch thickness)
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 1 small yellow onion, cut into thin strips
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 green onion, sliced, for garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil and brown sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté peppers and onions: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the red and yellow bell peppers and sliced onion. Season with Italian seasoning and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables become crisp-tender.
- Add garlic and seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute to let the garlic become fragrant.
- Return sausage to skillet: Add the browned sausage slices back into the skillet with the vegetables. Cook everything together for about 1 minute to heat through.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with red pepper flakes (if using), sliced green onions, and fresh chopped parsley or basil before serving.
- Serve: Enjoy the sausage and peppers skillet as a satisfying low-carb meal on its own or serve over rice or noodles if preferred.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes to taste.
- Andouille sausage can be substituted with other smoked sausages like kielbasa or chorizo.
- Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley for brightness and flavor contrast.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices, if not keeping low-carb.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days.
