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Sausage And Peppers

Section: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion

This easy sausage and peppers dish comes together in just 30 minutes, using simple ingredients like Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and a tangy balsamic glaze. It’s cooked all in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The glaze caramelizes beautifully around the sausage and vegetables, giving them incredible depth of flavor. Whether you’re using pork, chicken, or turkey sausage, this meal is flexible, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights. Serve with fresh basil or pair it with pasta or zoodles for a full dinner.

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Published By Ioana
Updated on Sun, 20 Jul 2025 14:55:35 GMT
Sausage and peppers in a pan. Bookmark
Sausage and peppers in a pan. | ioanacooks.com

This sausage and peppers recipe delivers classic Italian comfort with a twist thanks to a rich balsamic glaze. It is perfect for weeknights when you need something hearty fast without sacrificing flavor. With one pan and fresh ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in half an hour and feel like you cooked something special.

I first made this version when I was out of marinara and had balsamic vinegar on hand. The glaze turned out to be a total game changer and now I never make sausage and peppers any other way.

Ingredients

  • Italian sausage links: add savory richness and protein use any kind you love from mild to spicy
  • Bell peppers: provide natural sweetness and color go for a mix of red yellow and orange for visual appeal
  • Yellow onion: brings a mellow savory base that gets sweeter as it cooks
  • Olive oil: ensures everything browns beautifully choose extra virgin for better flavor
  • Garlic: adds bold aroma and taste always use fresh cloves for the best results
  • Balsamic vinegar: reduces into a tangy glaze make sure to use a good quality aged version
  • Dried basil and oregano: bring traditional Italian herb flavor or use a blend like Italian seasoning
  • Sea salt and black pepper: enhance all the other ingredients use freshly ground pepper for more bite
  • Fresh basil: optional but lovely for a pop of color and added freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Veggies
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a very large skillet over medium high heat Add the bell peppers and onions and season with dried basil oregano salt and pepper Stir occasionally and let them cook until browned and softened about 10 minutes
Add the Garlic
Lower the heat and push the veggies to the side Add another tablespoon of oil and sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant Stir everything together and transfer to a bowl cover to keep warm
Brown the Sausages
Add the last tablespoon of oil to the skillet and place the sausage links in the pan Cook them on medium heat turning every few minutes until browned on all sides They do not need to be cooked through yet
Simmer in Balsamic
Reduce the heat to low and carefully pour in the balsamic vinegar It will sizzle quickly cover and simmer the sausages for 10 to 12 minutes flipping halfway through until fully cooked through
Slice the Sausages
Remove sausages to a cutting board and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing into thick rounds
Bring It All Together
Return the sliced sausage and reserved veggies to the skillet Stir everything to coat with the balsamic glaze Warm through for a few minutes Serve hot with fresh basil if using
Sausage and peppers on a plate. Bookmark
Sausage and peppers on a plate. | ioanacooks.com

I always look forward to the way balsamic vinegar transforms into a rich glaze here My kids call it magic sauce and ask for seconds whenever I make this

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days Reheat gently in a skillet over medium low heat to preserve the glaze texture You can also freeze the cooked dish for up to two months

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap Italian sausage for chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option Use whatever peppers you have on hand Green peppers give a slightly more bitter contrast Try red wine vinegar if you are out of balsamic but add a teaspoon of honey for balance

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect over cauliflower rice for a low carb meal or spooned into a toasted hoagie roll for a classic sandwich You can also serve it alongside roasted potatoes or pasta to stretch it further

A dish of sausage and peppers. Bookmark
A dish of sausage and peppers. | ioanacooks.com

Cultural Context

Sausage and peppers is a staple in Italian American cooking often served at festivals and gatherings This stovetop version updates tradition with a modern glaze twist while keeping its roots in hearty everyday fare

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken sausage instead of pork?

Yes, chicken sausage works well and offers a lighter option with the same great flavor.

→ How do I avoid mushy vegetables?

Use a large skillet over high heat to sear the peppers and onions quickly without steaming them.

→ Is it necessary to use balsamic vinegar?

Balsamic adds a rich, tangy glaze. If needed, you can substitute with a mix of red wine vinegar and a touch of honey.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Store in an airtight container and warm gently in a skillet before serving.

→ What can I serve with sausage and peppers?

Try it over pasta, cauliflower rice, or tucked into sandwich rolls for a hearty meal.

→ Do I need to precook the sausage?

No, the sausages cook directly in the pan after browning, simmering in balsamic to finish through.

Sausage And Peppers

Easy sausage and peppers in a tangy balsamic glaze, all in one skillet.

Time Needed to Prep
10 minutes
Cooking Duration
20 minutes
Overall Time
30 minutes
Published By: Ioana

Category of Recipe: Main Dishes

Preparation Difficulty: Easy to Make

Type of Cuisine: Italian

Number of Portions: 5 How Many It Serves (5 sausage servings with peppers)

Dietary Preferences: Low-Carb Friendly, No Gluten, Dairy-Free Suitable

Ingredients You'll Need

→ Main Ingredients

Ingredient 01 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Ingredient 02 3 medium bell peppers, cut into strips
Ingredient 03 1 large yellow onion, sliced into half moons
Ingredient 04 1/2 tablespoon dried basil
Ingredient 05 1/2 tablespoon dried oregano
Ingredient 06 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Ingredient 07 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Ingredient 08 4 cloves garlic, minced
Ingredient 09 5 medium Italian sausage links, raw
Ingredient 10 3/4 cup balsamic vinegar
Ingredient 11 Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Steps to Follow

Step 01

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers and onions. Season with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly softened.

Step 02

Reduce heat to medium. Push vegetables to one side. Add 1 tablespoon oil to the cleared side and sauté garlic until fragrant. Mix with vegetables, transfer to a bowl, and cover to keep warm.

Step 03

Add remaining tablespoon oil to the skillet. Place sausage links in the pan and cook, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides but not fully cooked through.

Step 04

Reduce heat to low. Pour in balsamic vinegar and cover skillet. Simmer sausages until fully cooked, flipping halfway through cooking.

Step 05

Remove sausages from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes. Slice into thick rounds.

Step 06

Return sliced sausages and cooked vegetables to the skillet. Toss to coat in the balsamic glaze and cook for 2–3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Extra Tips

  1. Use a large skillet or Dutch oven to fit all ingredients comfortably and promote even browning.
  2. Tongs are helpful for stirring long strips of vegetables without breaking them.
  3. Avoid burning garlic by removing it with the vegetables before browning sausages.
  4. If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes after sausages are removed.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Tongs
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Mixing bowl

Allergen Information

Carefully check food labels for allergens and consult an expert if you're uncertain.
  • Contains pork (depending on sausage type)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Remember, these values are for guidance only and shouldn't replace advice from a professional.
  • Calories Per Serving: 480
  • Total Fat: 38 grams
  • Carbohydrate Amount: 14 grams
  • Protein Amount: 20 grams