Are you craving a hearty and flavorful meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen? Look no further than the Simple Sausage and Peppers Skillet! This delicious one-pan dish is packed with savory sausage, vibrant peppers, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. With its easy-to-follow recipe and minimal prep time, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time. So, grab your skillet and get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering dish that will leave you coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
Sausage links
You will need around 4-6 sausage links for this recipe. You can choose any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian, spicy, or mild.
Bell peppers
You will need 2-3 bell peppers of different colors. I recommend using a combination of red, green, and yellow peppers to add a vibrant mix of flavors and colors to your dish.
Onion
One medium-sized onion will work perfectly for this recipe. It adds a delicious sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish.
Garlic cloves
You will need 2-3 cloves of fresh garlic. Garlic adds a lovely aroma and enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Olive oil
2 tablespoons of olive oil will be used for sautéing the vegetables and adding a rich and savory base to the skillet.
Italian seasoning
To enhance the flavors of the dish, you will need 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning. This mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary will give your skillet a delicious Italian twist.
Salt and pepper
Add salt and pepper to taste. Seasoning is crucial to bring out the flavors of the ingredients.
Crushed red pepper flakes
If you enjoy a little heat, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to give your dish a hint of spiciness.
Tomato sauce
You will need 1 cup of tomato sauce. This will serve as the base for the skillet and add a rich and savory flavor.
Parmesan cheese
Grate some Parmesan cheese to sprinkle over the dish before serving. It adds a delightful touch of salty and nutty flavor.
Fresh basil
Finally, garnish your skillet with some fresh basil leaves. This herb adds a fragrant and earthy note to the dish.
Preparation
Step 1: Prepare the ingredients
Start by gathering all the ingredients and measuring them out. Chop the bell peppers into thin slices, dice the onion, mince the garlic cloves, and grate the Parmesan cheese. This will ensure a smooth and efficient cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the sausage
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage links and cook them until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 10-12 minutes. Make sure to turn them occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, transfer the sausages to a plate and set them aside.
Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, diced onion, and minced garlic cloves. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until they become tender and slightly caramelized. This will release their natural sweetness and enhance their flavors.
Step 4: Add the sauce and seasonings
Pour the tomato sauce into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Add the Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir everything together to combine the flavors. Adjust the amount of seasonings according to your taste preferences.
Step 5: Simmer the skillet
Return the cooked sausage links to the skillet, nestling them into the vegetable mixture. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Allow the dish to simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld together and the sausage to absorb the sauce.
Step 6: Serve and garnish
Once the skillet is finished simmering, remove it from the heat. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the sausage and peppers. Garnish the dish with some fresh basil leaves for a burst of freshness and fragrance. Serve the skillet as a main dish or as a delicious filling for sandwiches or wraps.
Tips and Variations
Use different types of sausage
Experiment with different types of sausage to add variety to your dish. Try using spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick or opt for a milder version if you prefer a more subtle flavor.
Add other vegetables
Feel free to get creative and add other vegetables to the skillet. Mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach would all be wonderful additions that would complement the dish perfectly.
Serve with pasta or bread
If you’re looking to make the dish a bit heartier, serve it over cooked pasta, such as penne or fettuccine. The sauce and vegetables pair perfectly with the pasta. Alternatively, you can serve the skillet with some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Make it spicier
If you’re a fan of spicy food, you can amp up the heat by increasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle some chili flakes on top before serving.
Experiment with different herbs and spices
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile of your skillet. Adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of dried chili flakes can take the dish to a whole new level.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook the sausage?
The cooking time for the sausage links may vary depending on the type and thickness. On average, it takes about 10-12 minutes to cook the sausage until browned on all sides. However, it’s best to check their internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.
Can I use frozen peppers?
While fresh bell peppers are recommended for this recipe, you can use frozen peppers if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before sautéing to prevent excess moisture from accumulating in the skillet.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese adds a lovely nutty flavor, you can substitute it with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or even crumbled feta for a different taste experience.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this dish by substituting the sausage with vegetarian sausage or plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh. You can also amp up the veggie factor by adding more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. If the dish has thickened, you can add a splash of water or tomato sauce to loosen it up.
Conclusion
This simple sausage and peppers skillet recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal. The combination of sausage, bell peppers, onions, and garlic creates a delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors. With just a few simple steps, you can have a tasty and satisfying dish ready to serve. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite herbs, spices, or additional vegetables to make it your own. So grab your skillet and start cooking this delicious recipe today!