Sausage and Peppers Slow Cooker

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Recipe

Slow cooker sausage and peppers is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the savory goodness of Italian sausages with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions. This classic dish is a staple in many Italian-American households, often served at family gatherings, potlucks, or as a comforting weeknight meal. The slow cooker does wonders in melding the flavors together, creating a dish that is rich, tender, and bursting with delicious aromas. Let me take you on a culinary journey through the origins, unique ingredients, and cooking techniques that make this slow cooker sausage and peppers recipe a standout favorite.

### Origins and Significance
The origins of sausage and peppers can be traced back to Italian-American immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to the United States. This dish is a beautiful fusion of Italian flavors and American ingredients, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal that has stood the test of time. Whether served on a crusty Italian roll as a sandwich, over pasta, or with a side of crusty bread, sausage and peppers is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways.

### Unique Ingredients and Flavors
The star ingredients of this recipe are the Italian sausages, bell peppers, and onions. Italian sausages come in sweet or spicy varieties, adding depth and richness to the dish. The sweetness of the bell peppers balances the savory flavors of the sausages, while the onions add a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor. The combination of these ingredients, slow-cooked to perfection, results in a dish that is both comforting and full of complex flavors.

### Cooking Techniques
The slow cooker is the secret weapon in this recipe, allowing the flavors to develop and meld together over several hours of gentle cooking. The low and slow method tenderizes the sausages and vegetables, while also infusing them with the rich flavors of the seasonings and broth. This hands-off approach makes it a perfect dish for busy days when you want a delicious meal waiting for you at the end of the day.

To start, sear the sausages in a hot skillet to give them a nice caramelized exterior. This step adds an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Then, sauté the onions and peppers until they are slightly softened, releasing their sweet aromas. Layer the sausages and vegetables in the slow cooker, pour in the broth, and let the magic happen as the slow cooker works its wonders.

**Pro Tip:** For an extra depth of flavor, you can deglaze the skillet with a splash of wine or broth after searing the sausages. This will pick up all the flavorful browned bits left behind and add a richness to the dish.

### Frequently Asked Question: Can I Freeze Leftover Sausage and Peppers?
Yes, you can freeze leftover sausage and peppers for up to 3 months. Simply let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. When ready to enjoy, thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

### Conclusion
Slow cooker sausage and peppers is a comforting and delicious dish that brings together the best of Italian and American flavors. Whether enjoyed on its own, over pasta, or in a sandwich, this dish is sure to please a crowd. So, gather your ingredients, set up your slow cooker, and let the flavors meld together for a meal that will warm your heart and soul. Enjoy the process of cooking and savoring this timeless classic!

Print Recipe

Sausage and Peppers Slow Cooker

Author: Samantha Walters Cooking Method: Slow Cooker Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 240 mins Total Time 4 hrs 15 mins

Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 320 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

A comforting Italian-inspired dish with sausages, bell peppers, and herbs cooked low and slow for a flavorful, tender result.

Ingredients

Cook Mode Cooking Mode Disabled

Servings

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausage (Can use mild or spicy based on preference)
• 2 large bell peppers (Choose a mix of colors for visual appeal)
• 1 large onion (Yellow or red onion works well here)
• 2 cloves garlic (Minced for flavor infusion)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (Fire-roasted for added depth of flavor)
• 1 tsp dried oregano (Adds a hint of Mediterranean flair)
• 1 tsp dried basil (Complements the sausage beautifully)
• to taste - salt and pepper (Adjust based on personal preference)

Optional Additions

• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (For a spicy kick)
• ¹⁄₂ cup chicken broth (To enhance the sauce's richness)

Instructions

Preparation

1. Chop Ingredients

   Slice 1 large onion, 2 bell peppers (any color), and 4 Italian sausages into thick slices.
   For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausages.

2. Prepare Sauce

   Mix 1 can of crushed tomatoes, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp of dried oregano, salt, and pepper in the slow cooker.

Cooking

1. Layer Ingredients

   Layer the sliced onions, peppers, and sausages over the sauce in the slow cooker.

2. Cook Slowly

   Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until sausages are cooked through and vegetables are tender.

Serving

1. Enjoy

   Serve the sausage and peppers hot over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
   Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Note

• You can use any type of sausage you prefer – Italian, chorizo, or even chicken sausage.
• For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
• Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.
• Serve the sausage and peppers over cooked pasta, rice, or on a crusty hoagie roll for a hearty meal.
• This dish freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later. Just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.

Keywords: Sausage, Peppers, Slow Cooker, Italian, Easy

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