Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Introduction
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers is a warm and comforting dish, perfect for any day of the week. This easy recipe brings together Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and fragrant spices, all cooked to perfection in a slow cooker. It’s a one-pot meal that fills your home with delightful aromas and makes dinnertime a breeze.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a fantastic choice for several reasons. First, it requires minimal effort. Just prepare the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work! Second, it’s a versatile meal that can be served on its own, over rice, or with some crusty bread. Lastly, the slow cooking process infuses the flavors deeply, resulting in a hearty and satisfying dish that everyone will love.
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers is simple and straightforward. Just follow these steps:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage, sweet or spicy
- 2 bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Crusty bread for serving
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and slice into bite-sized pieces.
- In the slow cooker, mix sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Place the browned sausage on top.
- Pour diced tomatoes, along with their juice, over the sausage and vegetables. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
- Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside crusty bread for dipping.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
This dish is incredibly flexible. You can serve it over a bed of rice or pasta for a full meal. Alternatively, enjoy it on its own with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Store Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
- For added flavor, consider using different types of sausage, like chicken or turkey sausage.
- You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for more variety.
- If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños.
Variation
You can easily turn this recipe into a low-carb meal by serving it over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or bread.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen sausage?
A: Yes, you can use frozen sausage. Just make sure to thaw it before cooking to ensure even cooking and flavor.
Q: Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or simply use more vegetables for a delicious vegetarian option.
Q: Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can. Just cook the sausage and vegetables in a large pot over medium heat, adding the tomatoes and spices. Simmer for about 30-40 minutes until everything is cooked through and flavorful.
Now you’re all set to enjoy a delicious and easy dinner with Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers!
