Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Italian crockpot sausage, peppers, and onions is a delightful dish that brings robust flavors to your table with minimal effort. This slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of juicy sausages and vibrant peppers creates an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: Just toss the ingredients in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you.
• Rich Flavor: Searing the sausages before slow cooking enhances their taste, resulting in a deeply flavorful dish.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, with melted cheese on top, or as a hearty sandwich filling.
• Family-Friendly Meal: This dish appeals to all ages, making it an excellent choice for family dinners.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious slow cooker sausage and peppers and onions, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment simplifies the cooking process and ensures great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for hands-off cooking while infusing flavors over time.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning sausages, enhancing their flavor before they go into the slow cooker.
• Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for safely slicing vegetables.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes slicing quicker and safer, ensuring even cooking.

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Ingredients

For this tasty slow cooker sausage and peppers and onions, gather the following ingredients:

Sausages and Vegetables

• 1 pkg Italian sausages (5, uncooked)
• 2 bell peppers, sliced (red & green)
• 1 large onion, sliced

Seasonings and Sauce

• 1/2 tsp garlic salt (or salt + garlic powder)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce (Rao’s recommended)

Cooking Essentials

• 1 Tbsp olive oil
• 1/2-3/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese (optional) (not pre-shredded)

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Start by heating a skillet on medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.

Step 2: Sear the Sausages

• Sear the Italian sausages for 2-3 minutes on each side until they start to brown.
• You want to enhance their flavor but not fully cook them at this stage.
• Transfer them to the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Layer the sliced onions and peppers on top of the sausages. Sprinkle them with garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Add Marinara Sauce

Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the onion and pepper mixture in your slow cooker.

Step 5: Cook It Up!

Cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours until the peppers are soft and the Italian sausages are thoroughly cooked through.

This easy-to-follow recipe will ensure you enjoy a delicious meal that’s perfect any day of the week!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Serving Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions can be as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you prefer a hearty plate or something more casual, there are plenty of ways to enjoy this dish.

Serve on a Bun

• Toasted Italian rolls make a great base for the sausages. Top with peppers and onions for a satisfying sandwich.

Broil with Cheese

• After slow cooking, sprinkle shredded Mozzarella cheese on top and broil until bubbly. This adds a rich layer of flavor.

Pair with Pasta

• Serve over cooked pasta for a complete meal. The marinara sauce complements the noodles perfectly.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Spoon the sausage mixture over rice or quinoa for a filling dish that absorbs all the flavors.

As a Standalone Dish

• Enjoy it straight from the slow cooker for an easy meal. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added flair.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Perfecting your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions can elevate your dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Choose Quality Sausages: Use high-quality Italian sausages for maximum flavor. Freshly made sausages often have better seasoning.

• Don’t Skip Searing: Searing the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker enhances their flavor significantly. It creates a nice crust that locks in juices.

• Layer Ingredients Wisely: Place sausages at the bottom of the slow cooker, followed by veggies. This helps them cook evenly.

• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your dish before serving, and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as needed for personal preference.

• Cook Low and Slow: For best results, opt for low cooking settings to ensure flavors meld beautifully over time.

• Add Fresh Herbs Last: If using fresh herbs like basil or parsley, add them just before serving to maintain their vibrant color and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Pairing sides with your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions can enhance your dining experience. Consider these delicious options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the marinara sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture.
2. Steamed Broccoli: A light vegetable side that balances the richness of the sausage dish while adding nutrients.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that is easy to prepare; simply sauté cauliflower rice until tender.
4. Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm sausage dish.
5. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with rosemary make an excellent hearty side.
6. Polenta: Creamy polenta offers a comforting base that pairs well with sausage and peppers.
7. Zucchini Noodles: For a lighter option, spiralized zucchini noodles add freshness without heavy carbs.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw can provide crunch and acidity to balance out the savory flavors of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Searing: Not browning the sausages first can lead to less flavor in your dish. Always sear them for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker.

• Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Low-quality marinara sauce can affect the overall taste. Use a good quality sauce like Rao’s for rich flavors.

• Overcrowding the Slow Cooker: Stuffing too many ingredients into the pot can prevent even cooking. Stick to the recipe’s quantities for optimal results.

• Not Seasoning Properly: Forgetting to add salt or seasonings can result in bland food. Make sure to follow the seasoning instructions closely.

• Cooking on High Too Long: Cooking on high for longer than recommended can dry out the sausage. Stick to 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low.

• Neglecting Cheese Options: Skipping the cheese makes for a less creamy dish. If desired, add freshly shredded Mozzarella before serving for extra flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed throughout.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring frequently until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries answered.

Can I use different types of sausages?

Yes! You can substitute with chicken sausage or turkey sausage if you prefer lighter options while still enjoying great flavors.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with your peppers for added heat and flavor that complements the sausage well.

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice. You can also serve it over a salad for a lighter meal.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prep all ingredients a day in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to cook, making dinner easier.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is not only flavorful but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by switching up vegetables or trying different sausage varieties. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings—give it a try!