Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Italian crockpot Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions is an easy and delightful dish that bursts with flavor. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe provides a delicious way to enjoy Italian-inspired cuisine without much effort. The slow-cooker method ensures that every ingredient melds beautifully, making it a standout choice for anyone looking to impress with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: With just a few minutes of prep, you can set your slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausages, peppers, and onions creates a savory explosion in every bite.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own, atop pasta, or in a bun for a hearty meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a party dish, this recipe fits perfectly.
• Great Leftovers: Enjoy the flavors even more the next day as leftovers!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in crafting this flavorful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This essential appliance allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your meal is tender and packed with flavor.
• Skillet: Pre-searing the sausages in a skillet adds depth to their flavor before they slow-cook.
• Cutting board & Chef’s knife: Essential for safely prepping your vegetables with ease.

Ingredients

To create this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Sausages

• 1 pkg Italian sausages (5, uncooked)

For the Vegetables

• 2 bell peppers, sliced (red & green)
• 1 large onion, sliced

Seasonings

• 1/2 tsp garlic salt (or salt + garlic powder)
• 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Sauce

• 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce (Rao’s recommended)

Optional Topping

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

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions

Step 1: Sear the Sausages

1. Heat a skillet on medium heat.
2. Add a drizzle of olive oil to the pan.
3. Sear the Italian sausages for 2-3 minutes on each side until they start to brown. You’re not cooking them fully; just browning enhances their flavor in the slow cooker.
4. Transfer the browned sausages to the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings

1. Layer the sliced onions and bell peppers over the sausages in the slow cooker.
2. Sprinkle with garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning.

Step 3: Add Sauce

1. Spread marinara sauce over the onion and pepper mixture evenly.

Step 4: Cook

1. Cover your slow cooker and cook on high for 3-4 hours or low for 6-7 hours until the peppers are soft and the sausages are cooked through.

Enjoy this deliciously simple Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions, perfect for any occasion!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Serving Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions can elevate your meals, whether for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this flavorful dish.

On a Bun

• Toasted Sub Roll: Serve the sausage and peppers on a toasted sub roll for a hearty sandwich.
• Garlic Bread: For an Italian twist, use garlic bread as the base for a rich and savory meal.

With Cheese

• Broiled Mozzarella: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the sausage and broil until bubbly for an extra cheesy experience.
• Parmesan Shavings: Add fresh Parmesan shavings just before serving for a gourmet touch.

As a Standalone Dish

• Over Rice: Spoon the mixture over steamed rice to soak up all the delicious juices.
• With Polenta: Serve over creamy polenta for a comforting side that complements the flavors perfectly.

How to Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

To ensure your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Sausages: Opt for high-quality Italian sausages for the best flavor. Fresh sausages will enhance the overall dish.
• Sear Before Slow Cooking: Browning the sausages in a skillet adds depth of flavor, making your dish even more delicious.
• Customize Your Peppers: Feel free to experiment with different types of bell peppers or add spicy peppers for some heat.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or parsley right before serving can brighten up the flavors of your slow-cooked meal.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste before serving. You can always add more salt or herbs to suit your preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps meld the flavors together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

Pairing side dishes with Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and Onions can enhance your meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a perfect complement to the robust flavors of sausage.
2. Crusty Italian Bread: Serve slices of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, adding texture to your meal.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing out the richness of the main dish.
4. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad provides freshness, with its crunchy romaine lettuce contrasting nicely with the hearty sausage.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables bring sweetness and complexity, enhancing every bite of your main dish.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers protein and a refreshing taste that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is a simple dish, but there are some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture.

• Not browning the sausages – Skipping this step can lead to less flavor. Always sear the sausages for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Using pre-shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. For best results, shred your own cheese right before using it.
• Overcrowding the slow cooker – Adding too many ingredients can result in uneven cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts for optimal flavor and texture.
• Ignoring cook times – Cooking for too long or too short can affect your dish’s quality. Follow the suggested cook times for perfect results.
• Using low-quality marinara sauce – A good marinara makes a difference. Choose a high-quality sauce for better taste and richness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions that may help you with your cooking experience.

What type of sausages should I use?

You can use chicken, turkey, or beef sausages as alternatives to traditional pork options. Choose your favorite variety!

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I serve Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions?

This dish is versatile! Serve it on a bun, over rice, or simply enjoy it with crusty bread.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes! Add crushed red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to give your dish a kick.

How long does it take to cook?

Cooking takes about 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low in your slow cooker.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers and onions is an enticing dish that’s easy to prepare. Its rich flavors combined with tender vegetables make it a crowd-pleaser. Customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a unique twist every time!