Nothing beats a comforting, vibrant one-pan dinner like this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe. Packed with smoky sausage, sweet bell peppers in a rainbow of colors, and tender onions all cooked to perfection together, this dish bursts with flavor and color. It’s a simple, speedy recipe that feels like a warm hug on your plate, perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a satisfying meal that’s easy to whip up but doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe lies in its simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, from the smoky, crispy sausage bringing richness to the dish, to the fresh, colorful peppers adding crunch and natural sweetness. The onions deepen the flavor profile, while garlic lifts everything with aromatic warmth.
- 1 pound smoked sausage (sliced): Choose your favorite smoked sausage for robust, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: A splash of olive oil helps achieve that gorgeous sear on the sausage and softens the vegetables.
- 1 medium onion (sliced): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed just right.
- 3 medium bell peppers (any colors, sliced): Their vibrant hues make the dish beautiful while contributing fresh, crisp bites.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic infuses a gentle kick and complexity in the final minutes of cooking.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
How to Make Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until every piece develops a beautiful golden-brown and a slight crispiness on the edges—this usually takes around 8 to 10 minutes. Browning the sausage first locks in its flavor and adds a delightful texture to the dish. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate to rest for the moment.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Peppers
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté for about 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and become translucent. If your pan looks dry, feel free to add another small drizzle of olive oil. Next, toss in the vibrant bell peppers and continue cooking until they’re tender-crisp—aim for a bit of char here and there if you can, as it adds a wonderful smoky flavor and extra texture. This step beautifully blends the sweetness of the veggies with the rich base created by the sausage.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
When the peppers and onions are nearly done, stir in the minced garlic. Cook it for about one minute until fragrant, making sure not to let it burn. Garlic is one of those powerhouse ingredients that elevate the entire dish with its aromatic presence.
Step 4: Combine and Season
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix everything together gently. This is your moment to add salt and pepper according to your taste, seasoning the dish perfectly. Give it all a good stir so the flavors marry and heat through for just another minute or two. Now your Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the dish by sprinkling some freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten the rich flavors beautifully. For a touch of indulgence, grated Parmesan or crumbled feta adds a lovely savory dimension that complements the smoky sausage perfectly.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up any flavorful juices. If you want something heartier, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice to balance the smoky, savory notes. A crisp green salad is a refreshing side that complements the dish’s bold flavors without overpowering them.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual dinner, serve straight from the skillet at the table for a warm, family-style experience. You can also stuff the sausage and peppers into hoagie rolls for tasty sandwiches or wrap them in tortillas for a fun, customizable taco night. Another idea is layering the sautéed mixture over pizza dough and topping with cheese for a colorful sausage and peppers flatbread.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making it a great option for quick meals later in the week without sacrificing flavor.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to save some for a busy day. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the veggies from becoming mushy.
Reheating
For best results, reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to help retain texture and flavor. If you’re short on time, microwaving works too—just cover your dish and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally to prevent uneven warmth.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?
Absolutely! Fresh sausage will work just fine, but it may require a bit more cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked and browned. Keep an eye on the color and internal temperature, and you’ll get delicious results either way.
What types of bell peppers are best for this recipe?
Feel free to mix and match any colors you like! Red, yellow, and orange peppers add sweetness, while green peppers bring a slightly more bitter, fresh note. Using a variety creates vibrant color and a nice range of flavors.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not inherently! The Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you prefer heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or choose a spicy sausage variety for an extra kick.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Yes, you can get creative with additions like mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so all the vegetables reach perfect tenderness without becoming mushy.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Swap out the sausage for plant-based sausage alternatives or hearty mushrooms like portobello or cremini to maintain that meaty texture and savory flavor. The peppers and onions will still shine as the recipe’s bright stars.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe a try soon—it’s one of those simple, satisfying meals that feels like home with every bite. Whether you’re feeding family or just craving a colorful, comforting dinner, this recipe delivers huge flavor with minimal fuss. Happy cooking!
Print
Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A quick and flavorful Sausage and Peppers Skillet recipe featuring smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and onions sautéed together to create a delicious, hearty meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 medium bell peppers (any colors), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Add the olive oil to a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the sliced smoked sausage pieces into the skillet and sear them until browned and crispy on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Once browned, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Peppers: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes. If the pan becomes dry, add a bit more olive oil to prevent sticking. Then add the sliced bell peppers and continue cooking until they become tender-crisp and slightly charred, which enhances their flavor.
- Add Garlic: When the vegetables are nearly cooked, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma without burning.
- Combine and Season: Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix everything well. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to combine all the flavors evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to heat through and meld flavors before serving.
Notes
- You can use any type or color of bell peppers to suit your taste or what’s available.
- For extra heat, consider adding red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
- This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely in a skillet or microwave.
