I still remember the first time I made Easy Crockpot Sausage and Peppers. The rich aroma of Italian sausage mingling with fresh bell peppers filled my kitchen, making my mouth water before I even took the first bite. This dish holds a special place in my heart because it brings comfort and warmth to busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. You can set it up in your slow cooker, go about your day, and return home to a delicious meal waiting for you. What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and the way the flavors meld together, creating a hearty dish that satisfies every time.
Why Make This Recipe
Easy Crockpot Sausage and Peppers is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort on your part. Second, it’s versatile; enjoy it over rice, in a hoagie, or even on its own. Lastly, you can let the crockpot do all the work while you focus on your day. It’s truly a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
How to Make Easy Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Ingredients:
- 2 lb Italian sausage links
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- Salt, as needed
- Black pepper, as needed
- 1 tsp Italian herb blend
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Directions:
- Start by placing the Italian sausage in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top of the sausage.
- Season with salt, black pepper, Italian herb blend, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over all the ingredients in the crockpot.
- Cover and set the crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the sausage is cooked through.
- Once done, stir everything gently before serving and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Easy Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
You can serve this dish in various ways to suit your taste. Try it over a bed of rice or pasta for a complete meal. Alternatively, use it as a filling for hoagie rolls topped with cheese, creating a delicious sausage sandwich. You can also enjoy it on its own for a lighter option.
How to Store Easy Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you wish to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Portion it into freezer-safe bags and store for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Easy Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
- For the best flavor, try to use a mix of sweet and spicy sausage.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper to your heat preference.
- Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it adds a lovely fresh note to the dish.
Variation
You can customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. For a healthier twist, use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can use chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.
How can I make this dish spicier?
You can increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add jalapeños for an extra kick.
Is it okay to leave out the marinara sauce?
Yes, you can, but the sauce adds flavor and moisture. You might want to replace it with broth or another sauce if you prefer a different taste.
Easy Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 2 lb Italian sausage links Use a mix of sweet and spicy sausage for best flavor.
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
Seasonings and Sauce
- Salt, as needed Adjust to taste.
- Black pepper, as needed Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp Italian herb blend
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional) Add more for extra heat.
- 2 cups marinara sauce Substitute with broth for a lighter option.
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley Adds a fresh note to the dish.
Method
Preparation
- Place the Italian sausage in the bottom of your crockpot.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top of the sausage.
- Season with salt, black pepper, Italian herb blend, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over all the ingredients in the crockpot.
Cooking
- Cover and set the crockpot on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the sausage is cooked through.
- Once done, stir everything gently before serving and sprinkle with fresh parsley.