One Pan Sausage Peppers And Onions

Name: One Pan Sausage Peppers And Onions
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy); 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: No-Fuss Recipes

I absolutely love the vibrant flavors and ease of making One Pan Sausage Peppers and Onions. It’s become one of my go-to meals when I'm short on time but still want something hearty and delicious. The combination of sweet bell peppers, savory onions, and juicy sausage makes for a satisfying dish that can be served with crusty bread or over rice. Best of all, the one-pan aspect means minimal cleanup, which is a huge bonus!

Created by

Phoebe Turner

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:45:45.488Z

When I first tried making One Pan Sausage Peppers and Onions, I was blown away by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. Cooking everything in one pan allows the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory dish that feels gourmet. I love adding a sprinkle of Italian herbs to elevate the flavors even more, and serving it with a side of crusty Italian bread has become a favorite.

Another tip I've learned is to use a variety of colored peppers for a more visually appealing platter. The red, yellow, and green peppers not only enhance the taste but also make the dish pop with color. Plus, cooking the sausages until they're perfectly browned adds that irresistible crispy texture that everyone loves!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Vibrant colors and fresh flavors create a feast for the eyes.
Minimal cleanup with just one pan to wash.
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Maximizing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients can significantly enhance the final dish. Choose fresh, vibrant bell peppers that are firm to the touch and free of blemishes for the best flavor and texture. If you're feeling adventurous, consider mixing colors—red, yellow, and green peppers not only provide a visual appeal, but they each bring a slightly different sweetness and taste profile to the dish. The onions should be sliced thinly to ensure they cook evenly and caramelize slightly during the sautéing process, adding to the overall flavor complexity.

When it comes to the sausage, opt for high-quality Italian sausage from a butcher shop if possible, as the flavor tends to be richer than store-bought varieties. Sweet sausage pairs beautifully with the peppers' sweetness, while spicy sausage adds a lovely kick, giving you a chance to customize the dish to your liking. Remember to check the ingredient list for additives; a natural sausage will enhance the dish without unnecessary preservatives.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

The cooking process is crucial for ensuring the flavors meld beautifully. When browning the sausage, ensure that your skillet is preheated; a hot pan will develop a nice crust on the sausage that locks in juices. Use medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the sausages to cook through evenly. Stir occasionally, and don’t be afraid to adjust the heat to medium-low if things start to sizzle too vigorously.

After adding the vegetables, continue to cook them until they are softened but still have a bit of crunch, about 5-7 minutes. The garlic should be added last to prevent burning and bitterness; it only needs about a minute to become fragrant before you combine it with the sausage. For an extra layer of flavor, consider deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine after cooking the vegetables, scraping up any browned bits to incorporate them back into the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients for a fantastic meal!

Ingredients

1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
1 large onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Your ingredients are ready to create a delicious dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook your meal.

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage links and brown them on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the pan and slice into bite-sized pieces.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Combine and Season

Return the sausage to the skillet along with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for another 10-12 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Enjoy

Once everything is cooked through and the sausage is heated, remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot.

Enjoy your One Pan Sausage Peppers and Onions!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar during the cooking process. It complements the sweetness of the peppers beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

One Pan Sausage Peppers and Onions is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it pairs exceptionally well with crusty bread, offering a great vehicle for all those delicious juices, you might also consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa for a more substantial meal. For a low-carb option, try serving it over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice, which compliments the dish nicely without the extra carbs.

Additionally, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish even further, providing a salty, creamy element that contrasts beautifully with the savory sausage and sweet peppers. If you want a little heat, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can bring an exciting layer of flavor that enhances the overall experience.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of this recipe is that it can be made ahead of time, making busy weeknights a breeze. After cooking, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the mixture; it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

To keep the sausage and peppers as fresh as possible when reheating, add a splash of olive oil or a tablespoon of water to the pan. This will create steam that helps to revive the dish without overcooking the vegetables. Take care to monitor it closely, ensuring you don’t cook it longer than necessary, as you want the veggies to maintain some of their natural texture and crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based alternatives.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or rustic bread to soak up the juices.

→ How long will leftovers last in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients and store them separately in the fridge until you're ready to cook.