Crockpot Sausage and Peppers is a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends. With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, this slow-cooked meal brings together savory Italian sausage and fresh vegetables in a way that’s both satisfying and simple. Allowing your crockpot to do the heavy lifting, you can come home to a delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that works well for family dinners or casual get-togethers.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low / 3-4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes (depending on cook setting)
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 380
- Protein: 20g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 12g per serving
- Fat: 28g per serving
- Fiber: 2g per serving
- Sugar: 3g per serving
- Sodium: 800mg per serving
Why Make This Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Crockpot Sausage and Peppers is not just easy to make; it’s incredibly versatile. The combination of juicy Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic garlic creates a flavor explosion that satisfies your taste buds. The best part? You can prep everything in a matter of minutes. Once it’s in the crockpot, you can walk away while it cooks to perfection, making it ideal for those bustling days when you have little time to spare.
How to Make Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 2 bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
In a crockpot, place the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic.
Step 2: Mixing
Add the Italian sausage on top of the vegetables.
Step 3: Cooking
Pour the diced tomatoes over everything and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Finishing
Stir well before serving and garnish with fresh basil.
How to Serve Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
This dish shines when paired with a hearty Italian loaf, perfect for soaking up that tasty sauce. Alternatively, serve it over creamy polenta or a bed of pasta for a complete meal. You can also pile it onto hoagie rolls for a delicious sausage sandwich. Add a side salad or some roasted veggies to round out the meal.
How to Store Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
- Feel free to mix and match your favorite types of sausage—spicy, sweet, or even chicken sausage all work well.
- For a deeper flavor, consider browning the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the crockpot, though this step is optional.
- If you like it saucy, add an extra can of diced tomatoes.
- Adjust the spice level by adding red pepper flakes if you want a kick.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap out the sausage for plant-based sausage or beans and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- Multicolor Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a colorful presentation.
- Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle some grated mozzarella on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a melty treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen sausage?
Yes! While fresh sausage is preferable for tenderness, frozen sausage can also be placed in the crockpot without thawing. Just cook it for the longer suggested time.
What can I substitute for Italian seasoning?
You can create your own blend using dried oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme if you don’t have Italian seasoning.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to include mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach, adding them based on your personal preferences.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check any sausage packaging to ensure it doesn’t contain gluten.
How long should I let it cool before storing?
Allow it to cool for about 30 minutes at room temperature before transferring it to the refrigerator to store.
Conclusion
Crockpot Sausage and Peppers is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavor into your kitchen. With its straightforward preparation and comforting taste, this dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. We encourage you to give it a try—your taste buds and your loved ones will thank you! Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this meal that feels like home. Happy cooking!
Print
Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
- Total Time: 495 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A delightful slow-cooked dish featuring savory Italian sausage and fresh vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekends.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 2 bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 onion (sliced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a crockpot, place the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic.
- Add the Italian sausage on top of the vegetables.
- Pour the diced tomatoes over everything and sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Stir well before serving and garnish with fresh basil.
Notes
For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. Feel free to mix different types of sausage or add extra vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
