Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Tonight

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers is a classic comfort meal that brings the rich flavors of Italian cuisine into a simple, hands-off preparation. Juicy, mildly spicy pork sausages are paired with tender bell peppers, sweet onions, and aromatic garlic, all simmered slowly in a robust marinara sauce. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings.

This dish is ideal for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of sausage, vegetables, and Italian herbs ensures every bite is flavorful and comforting, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

Proteins:

• Mildly spicy pork Italian sausage links (quantity as needed, typically 4–6 links)

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1 orange bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into strips
• 1 white onion, sliced into half-moons
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a blend of dried oregano, basil, marjoram, thyme, rosemary, and sage)
• Sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

Liquids:

• 2–3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Cooking Oil:

• Olive oil, for sautéing sausages

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Sausages

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Brown the sausages on all sides, about 5–6 minutes, until lightly caramelized.
3. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside.

2. Prepare Vegetables in Slow Cooker

1. In the slow cooker, combine bell peppers, onions, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Toss the vegetables to coat evenly with the seasonings.

3. Add Marinara Sauce

1. Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the vegetables, ensuring everything is coated.

4. Layer Sausages

1. Place the browned sausages on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.

5. Cook Slowly

1. Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours or on High for 2–3 hours, until the sausages are cooked through and vegetables are tender.

6. Serve

1. Remove sausages and slice if desired, serving alongside or on top of the vegetables and sauce.
2. Pair with pasta, rice, crusty bread, or enjoy as-is for a hearty, flavorful meal.

Tips, Variations, and Storage

• Sausage Options: Sweet Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or turkey sausage can be used instead of pork.
• Vegetable Variations: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
• Spice Level: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicier version.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Pairings

• Sides: Serve with pasta, risotto, or crusty Italian bread to soak up the sauce.
• Salads: A simple green salad or Caesar salad balances the richness of the dish.
• Optional Extras: Top with freshly grated Parmesan or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil before serving.

Quick Info

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–5 hours (Low) or 2–3 hours (High)
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (Low) or 2 hours 10 minutes (High)
• Servings: 4–6
• Cuisine: Italian / Comfort Food