If you’ve ever wanted a dish that brings the perfect combination of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and an easy one-pan cooking experience, then you’re going to love this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that balances the smoky richness of andouille sausage with the sweet crunch of bell peppers and onions, all seasoned just right to dance on your taste buds. This skillet recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate and is equally great for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is delightfully straightforward. The ingredients are simple but each plays a key role—adding layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the dish pop.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided: Essential for browning the sausage and sautéing the veggies, providing a rich base without overpowering.
- 12 to 14 ounces andouille sausage, sliced thinly: Brings a smoky, spicy depth that forms the soul of this dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, thin strips: Adds a sweet, crisp vibrancy and beautiful color contrast.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thin strips: Balances the dish with bright sweetness and softness when cooked.
- 1 small yellow onion, thin strips: Gives a mild sweetness and softens perfectly to blend all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lifts the overall flavor profile with subtle earthiness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed: Infuses the skillet with a fragrant aroma and a slight kick that enhances every bite.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Simple but crucial for bringing out the natural flavors.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat for those who like a little spice on the side.
- 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish): Provides a fresh, mild onion bite and a burst of color.
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil (for garnish): Adds brightness and a fresh herbal note to finish the dish.
How to Make Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced andouille sausage rounds and cook until they’re browned on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes. This step is crucial because browning the sausage develops those rich, caramelized flavors that make the dish so irresistible. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside—don’t forget to save those flavorful juices in the pan!
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers and Onions
Next, turn the heat up to medium-high and add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the red and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Sprinkle on the Italian seasoning to infuse the veggies with a subtle herbaceous touch. Cook everything for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are crisp-tender and still vibrant. This quick sauté keeps the peppers from becoming mushy, maintaining their beautiful texture and sweetness.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Now, stir in the minced garlic along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let the garlic cook for about one minute—just long enough to release its fragrant aroma and meld with the other flavors. This step layers the dish with that unmistakable garlic warmth that every great skillet meal deserves.
Step 4: Combine Sausage and Vegetables
Return the browned sausage slices to the skillet and mix them with the bell peppers and onions. Cook together for one more minute to ensure the sausage is reheated through and all the flavors are happily mingling. This step ties all the components together and readies the dish for the final seasoning touch.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Give the skillet a quick taste test. Adjust the salt and black pepper as needed, and sprinkle the optional red pepper flakes if you want a little extra heat. Finally, garnish with sliced green onions and fresh chopped parsley or basil. These garnishes add a fresh, crisp element that brightens up the rich, savory skillet.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
You’re now ready to serve your Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe! Enjoy it as a standalone low-carb meal, or scoop it over a bed of rice, pasta, or even creamy mashed potatoes if you want to take it up a notch. It’s comfort food elevated with some of the best flavors around.
How to Serve Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley or basil not only add color but also bring a fresh herbal lift that perfectly balances the richness of the sausage. If you’re a fan of spice, some red pepper flakes sprinkled on top create a gentle kick that vibrates through every bite.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs beautifully with a variety of sides depending on the mood and occasion. Try it alongside creamy polenta for a luxuriously smooth contrast, crusty Italian bread to mop up every last bit of flavor, or even a light leafy salad to add crunch and freshness. For a heartier meal, serve over cooked rice, pasta, or even quinoa to soak in all those savory juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or family? Try serving the sausage and peppers in warm pita pockets or as a filling for soft tortillas, turning the dish into a handheld feast. Another fun idea is topping a flatbread with the sausage and peppers, adding some mozzarella, and broiling it for a few minutes—hello, comforting sausage and pepper pizza! The versatility of this skillet recipe means you can mix it up as often as you like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from your Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because the sausage holds up well to cooling, the flavors often deepen overnight, making for delicious next-day meals.
Freezing
If you want to save a batch for even later, this recipe freezes beautifully. Portion the cooled shrimp and peppers into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your leftovers back to life, gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture seems dry. You can also microwave it for a quick fix, but stove reheating helps keep the veggies from becoming too soft and keeps the sausage juicy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While andouille sausage adds a smoky, spicy kick, you can substitute with Italian sausage, chorizo, or even a milder breakfast sausage. Just adjust seasoning and cooking times slightly depending on the sausage type.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written, making it a great option for anyone avoiding gluten. Just double-check any sausages you use to ensure they’re gluten-free as some brands might include fillers.
Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to elevate the vegetable variety. Just add them in with the bell peppers and onions and adjust cooking times so everything finishes tender-crisp.
How spicy is this recipe?
This Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe has a pleasant warmth, mostly coming from the andouille sausage. If you prefer more heat, adding red pepper flakes is a simple way to spice it up. You can always omit the flakes to keep the dish milder.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep the ingredients in advance by slicing the sausage and vegetables the day before to save time on cooking day. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s best to cook the skillet fresh.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about this Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe—it’s quick to make, packed with flavor, and satisfying to the last bite. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or craving an easy, comforting dinner for yourself, this recipe delivers in every way. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how quickly it might become one of your favorite go-to meals too!
Print
Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a vibrant, flavorful one-pan meal featuring savory andouille sausage sautéed with colorful bell peppers and onions, seasoned with Italian herbs and garlic. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick, hearty dinner.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 12 to 14 ounces andouille sausage, cut into thin rounds (between ⅛-inch and ¼-inch thickness)
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into thin strips
- 1 small yellow onion, cut into thin strips
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 green onion, sliced, for garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley or basil, for garnish
Instructions
- Brown sausage: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausages, cooking them until browned on all sides, approximately 5 to 6 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: Increase heat to medium-high and add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Add the red and yellow bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Season with the Italian seasoning and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.
- Add garlic and season: Stir in the minced garlic and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Continue cooking for an additional minute to allow the garlic to release its aroma.
- Combine sausage and vegetables: Add the browned sausage slices back to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook together for 1 minute, just until the sausage is heated through.
- Adjust seasoning and garnish: Taste the dish and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with red pepper flakes (if using), sliced green onions, and fresh chopped parsley or basil before serving.
- Serve: Serve the sausage and peppers skillet as-is for a low-carb meal or over rice or noodles if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute andouille sausage with Italian or smoked sausage if preferred.
- For extra heat, increase red pepper flakes or add fresh chili peppers.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or crusty bread to make it more filling.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Adjust seasoning based on your salt preference as the sausage contains some salt.
