Name: One-Pan Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian sausage links (mild or hot); 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried basil; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ½ cup crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce); Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

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If you’re craving a hearty, vibrant dinner that comes together effortlessly, this One-Pan Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is an absolute game-changer. With juicy Italian sausages, a colorful medley of bell peppers, fragrant onions, and rich tomato sauce, this dish brings bold flavors and satisfying textures all in one skillet. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without the fuss, and it pairs beautifully with everything from crusty bread to tender pasta. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your favorite weeknight dinners to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One-Pan Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe - Recipe Image

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity using fresh, flavorful ingredients that work together to create something truly special. Each component adds its own charm — from the sizzling sausages to the sweet peppers and aromatic herbs, it’s a harmony of tastes and colors that’s hard to beat.

Italian sausage links (1 lb): Choose mild or hot depending on your spice preference for that classic Italian flavor and juicy texture.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Essential for sautéing and bringing out the vibrant flavors of the vegetables and sausage.
Red bell pepper, sliced (1): Adds sweetness and a pop of bright color to the dish.
Yellow bell pepper, sliced (1): Contributes a subtle fruity note and beautiful contrast.
Green bell pepper, sliced (1): Offers a bit of earthiness and balances the sweetness of other peppers.
Large onion, sliced (1): Brings depth and a slight natural sweetness when caramelized.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): No Italian dish is complete without fresh garlic for that unmistakable kick.
Dried oregano (1 tsp): Classic herb that ties together the Mediterranean flavors perfectly.
Dried basil (1 tsp): Adds a sweet, aromatic hint that elevates the sauce.
Red pepper flakes (½ tsp, optional): For those who love a little heat with their Italian fare.
Crushed tomatoes (½ cup): Creates a rich, slightly tangy base that coats everything beautifully.
Salt and black pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to enhance all the natural flavors.
Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds freshness and a lovely burst of green on top before serving.

How to Make One-Pan Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausages

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add your Italian sausage links. Let them sizzle and brown evenly on all sides — this should take about 5 to 6 minutes. The caramelization locks in incredible flavor, so don’t rush this step. When browned, remove them from the pan and set aside to rest while you prepare the veggies.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Peppers

In the same pan, use the sausage-infused oil to sauté the sliced onions and bell peppers. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they soften and start to release their natural sweetness. This creates the delicious base for your sauce, so make sure the veggies remain tender but still vibrant.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Herbs

Next, toss in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Stir everything together and let it cook for a minute to awaken the aromatic herbs and roast the garlic just enough to bring out its flavor without burning.

Step 4: Introduce the Crushed Tomatoes

Pour in the crushed tomatoes, seasoning everything with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients into a savory sauce that clings to your peppers and onions. Letting this simmer slightly helps meld the flavors beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer with the Sausages

Return the browned sausage links to the pan, nestling them into the sauce and veggies. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. This final cooking phase ensures the sausages are fully cooked and tender while allowing the flavors to marry perfectly into a comforting, Italian-style skillet dinner.

How to Serve One-Pan Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe

The image shows a close-up of a sheet pan filled with cooked sliced sausage, yellow and orange bell pepper strips, and white onion slices spread evenly. The sausage pieces are round, browned, and mixed throughout the vegetables. The bell peppers are soft with slightly charred edges, showing a vibrant mix of orange and yellow colors. The white onion slices are translucent and curved, scattered among the peppers and sausage. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh touch. The whole dish rests on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top for a punch of color and fresh, herbaceous brightness that livens up the whole dish. It’s a simple step but one that really elevates the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully versatile when it comes to serving. It pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Or pile it over tender pasta or fluffy rice to turn it into a truly satisfying meal. For something lighter, a crisp green salad on the side contrasts nicely with the richness of the sausages and peppers.

Creative Ways to Present

Thinking beyond the skillet? You can slice the sausages and place the whole pan’s worth of sausage and peppers onto a toasted hoagie roll for a mouthwatering sandwich. Alternatively, try serving it over creamy polenta or even spooned into stuffed peppers for a colorful and fun twist. The possibilities are endless and perfect for impressing guests or making weeknight dinners more exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, simply transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after sitting overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. Just be sure to cool it before refrigerating to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

This One-Pan Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe freezes beautifully. Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. It’s a convenient way to have a homemade Italian comfort meal ready whenever you need it.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight. Warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short intervals to avoid overcooking the sausage or drying out the peppers. Reheating slowly helps preserve that fresh, vibrant flavor you love.

FAQs

Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! While Italian sausage offers traditional flavor, you can easily swap it for chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian sausage depending on your dietary preferences. Just adjust cooking times as needed for different sausages.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free as long as you serve it without bread or pasta that contain gluten. Always double-check the label on the sausages to ensure they don’t contain hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely. Increasing the red pepper flakes or choosing hot Italian sausage will add more heat. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or chopped fresh chili peppers to amp up the spice level.

What can I serve instead of pasta or bread?

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try serving the sausage and peppers over cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed greens like spinach or kale. Roasted potatoes also make an excellent hearty side.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

From start to finish, it takes about 35 minutes including prep and cooking. It’s a wonderful option for a quick weekday dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pan Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is a true delight to make and eat — it turns humble ingredients into a vibrant, comforting meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself after a busy day, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction with every bite. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your go-to dinner favorites in no time.