There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of crockpot sausage and peppers. This recipe is like a cozy hug on a chilly day, perfect for those busy nights when you just want to come home to a delicious meal without fussing too much in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and the magic of your trusty crockpot, you’ll have a hearty, flavorful dish that’s sure to please everyone around the table.
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. You can set it up in the morning, go about your day, and return to a wonderful aroma filling your home. Plus, the combination of savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic garlic creates a delightful symphony of flavors that warms the soul. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a go-to favorite!
Ingredients for Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
To make this comforting dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of Italian sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces. Feel free to choose sweet or spicy, depending on your taste!
- 2 bell peppers, sliced. You can use any color you prefer—red, yellow, or green will all work beautifully.
- 1 onion, sliced. A yellow or white onion adds a lovely sweetness as it cooks down.
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced. Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too.
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz). This will provide moisture and a nice tang to the dish.
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. A blend of dried herbs will enhance the overall flavor—thyme, oregano, and basil are fantastic choices.
- Salt and pepper to taste. Always adjust these to your liking for the best flavor.
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will be used to brown the sausage, adding extra richness to the dish.
Gathering these ingredients will set you up for success in creating a wonderful meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!
How to Prepare Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Let’s get started on creating this delightful crockpot sausage and peppers dish! I promise, following these steps will make it a breeze.
Prepping the Ingredients
First things first, let’s prep our ingredients. Begin by slicing the Italian sausage into bite-sized pieces. I like to do this while the sausage is still cold, as it makes slicing much easier! Next, grab your bell peppers and onion. Slice them into strips—don’t stress about making them perfect; just aim for uniform sizes so they cook evenly. Finally, mince the garlic. If you’re using fresh garlic, the aroma will be heavenly. If you’re using garlic powder, just measure out the equivalent.
Browning the Sausage
Now, let’s take the sliced sausage to the skillet! Heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s warm, carefully add the sausage pieces. It’s important to watch out for splatters—use a long-handled spatula to turn the sausage, and don’t overcrowd the pan; you want that lovely browning. This step adds so much flavor! Brown the sausage for about 5 minutes until it’s golden on the outside. Once done, remove it from the heat and set it aside.
Combining Ingredients in the Crockpot
Now, let’s layer everything into the crockpot. Start by adding the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic at the bottom. This will create a lovely base for the sausage. Next, gently place the browned sausage on top of the veggies. Finally, pour the can of diced tomatoes over everything and sprinkle the Italian seasoning, along with some salt and pepper. Don’t skip this step; it’s crucial for flavor! Give it a gentle stir to combine all the ingredients.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Cover the crockpot, and it’s time to let the magic happen! You can set it to cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. If you’re home, I encourage you to check in occasionally just to soak in those delicious smells and maybe give it a gentle stir. Trust me, the wait will be worth it when you finally dig in!
Tips for Success with Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
To make your crockpot sausage and peppers even better, here are some handy tips! First, don’t hesitate to swap out the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option. It still brings great flavor! You can also mix in different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms if you want to sneak in some extra nutrients.
If you’re watching your sodium intake, try using low-sodium canned tomatoes and adjust the salt to taste. Also, feel free to play with the spices—adding a pinch of red pepper flakes will give it a nice kick! And remember, this dish is incredibly forgiving, so if you don’t have a certain ingredient on hand, trust your instincts and substitute as needed. You’ve got this!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to enjoying a hearty meal like crockpot sausage and peppers, it’s nice to know what you’re getting nutritionally. Each serving of this delightful dish is approximately 300 calories. You’ll find about 20 grams of protein, which is great for keeping you satisfied! It also contains 20 grams of fat, with 7 grams being saturated fat. The carbohydrates are around 10 grams, and it offers 2 grams of fiber to help keep things moving smoothly. Remember, these values are estimates based on standard ingredients, so feel free to adjust them based on any substitutions you make!
FAQ About Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! One of the best things about this crockpot sausage and peppers recipe is its versatility. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey sausage works wonderfully and still packs a punch of flavor. You can also try chicken sausage or even plant-based sausages if you’re looking to go meatless. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly if you choose a different type, as some may require less time to cook through.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta. The sauce from the crockpot adds a delightful richness that blends beautifully with these sides. You could also serve it with a crisp side salad or some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s all about what makes you feel good and satisfied!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers from your crockpot sausage and peppers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let it cool down before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or pop it in the microwave until warmed through. If you have a lot of leftovers, you can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: With just a few steps and minimal hands-on time, you can have a delicious meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Comforting Flavors: The savory sausage combined with the sweetness of bell peppers and the aromatic garlic creates a warm, inviting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Versatile Ingredients: This recipe allows for easy substitutions to suit your dietary needs, whether swapping in turkey sausage or adding extra veggies.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook it in the morning, and let your crockpot do the work while you go about your day, returning home to a mouthwatering aroma.
- Family-Friendly: Everyone will love this hearty dish, making it a great choice for family dinners or gatherings!
Serving Suggestions for Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
When it comes to serving your crockpot sausage and peppers, presentation can make all the difference! Start by spooning the hearty mixture over a generous serving of fluffy white rice or al dente pasta. This not only adds texture but also soaks up all those savory juices, making each bite even more satisfying.
For a pop of color and freshness, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or basil before serving. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top can add a lovely salty richness that pairs beautifully with the dish. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, a drizzle of balsamic glaze can offer a surprising tang that elevates the flavors even more!
Don’t forget to have some crusty bread on the side; it’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. This way, you create a complete dining experience that’s comforting and inviting for everyone at the table.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing leftovers from your crockpot sausage and peppers is a breeze! Once your dish has cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. This will keep it fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
When you’re ready to enjoy those delicious leftovers, gently reheat them on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. You can also pop it in the microwave—just cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters. Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. This way, you’ll maintain all the wonderful flavors and textures. Enjoy your comforting meal again without any fuss!
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Crockpot Sausage and Peppers: 5 Comforting Steps to Warmth
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A comforting and easy recipe for crockpot sausage and peppers.
Ingredients
- 1 pound of Italian sausage
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
Instructions
- Start by slicing the sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sausage and brown it for a few minutes.
- In the crockpot, add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic.
- Add the browned sausage on top of the vegetables.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes over everything.
- Sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper on top.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Use any color of bell peppers based on your preference.
- Serve over rice or pasta for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Crockpot
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: crockpot sausage and peppers, easy dinner recipe, comfort food
