Italian Sausage and Peppers

This classic Italian Sausage and Peppers dish combines sweet or hot Italian sausages with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a medley of spices. It’s a versatile meal that can be served on its own, over pasta, or in hoagie rolls for a hearty sandwich.

Tips:

1. Sausages: You can use either sweet or hot Italian sausages depending on your spice preference. Keeping the casings on helps the sausages hold their shape while cooking.
2. Peppers: Use a mix of red and green bell peppers for a colorful presentation and balanced flavor.
3. Wine or Broth: Both chicken broth and white cooking wine add depth to the dish. Choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.
4. Spice: For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or more hot sausages.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 20 ounces sweet or hot Italian sausages (about 5 links, keep the casings on)
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 large yellow sweet onion, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup chicken broth or white cooking wine
• 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• (Optional) Red pepper flakes, to taste
• Rolls for serving, if desired

Instructions:

1. Brown the Sausages:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Add the sausages and brown them well on all sides, but do not cook them completely through. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside to cool slightly. Once cooled, slice them into two-inch pieces.

1. Cook the Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, melt the butter. If needed, add a bit more olive oil. Add the sliced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until they begin to soften but are not completely cooked.

1. Add Aromatics and Tomatoes:

• Add the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil (or fresh basil), and salt to the skillet. Stir to combine. Pour in the chicken broth or white cooking wine and add the drained diced tomatoes. Stir again to combine.

1. Combine and Cook:

• Return the sliced sausages to the skillet. Stir to mix everything together. Cover the skillet and cook for a few more minutes until the sausages are fully cooked and the peppers and onions are tender.

1. Serve:

• Serve the Italian Sausage and Peppers immediately. Enjoy it plain, over pasta, or in hoagie rolls for a delicious sandwich option.

This Italian Sausage and Peppers dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or an easy meal prep option for the week!