Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s both comforting and full of flavor, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers recipe. I can’t tell you how many times this dish has saved me on busy days.
The best part? You just toss everything in the slow cooker, set it, and forget it. The aromas that fill my kitchen while it cooks are simply irresistible.
Plus, it’s versatile! Whether I serve it over pasta or in a hearty roll, it never disappoints. It’s a crowd-pleaser too; my family can’t get enough of it.
With the rich blend of sausage, peppers, and tomatoes, this recipe warms both the body and soul. Trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
When it comes to making a delicious Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers, the ingredients are key to achieving that rich, hearty flavor we all love. You’ll be amazed at how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to create something so comforting.
Let’s explore what you’ll need for this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Italian rope sausage, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 bell peppers, cut into strips (any color you like)
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced 1/2-inch thick
- 2 (14 ounce) cans stewed tomatoes
- 2 (6 ounce) cans tomato paste
- 1 1/2 tablespoons oregano
- 1 1/2 tablespoons parsley
- or 1 package McCormick Slow Cookers Italian Herb Chicken Seasoning
Now, let’s talk about some ingredient considerations.
First off, you can totally mix and match the bell peppers. Want to add a little sweetness? Go for yellow or orange peppers. If you like a bit of heat, then throw in some spicy sausage or even a jalapeño.
And while I’ve provided the option for using canned stewed tomatoes and tomato paste, feel free to use fresh tomatoes if you’re feeling adventurous. Just remember, fresh is often best, but who’s time for that on a busy day, right?
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so don’t hesitate to play around with what you have in your pantry. You know, the one that’s a black hole of random ingredients. Trust me, I’ve been there.
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Alright, let’s explore the nitty-gritty of making this delicious Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers. First things first, gather your ingredients. You’ll need 2 lbs of Italian rope sausage cut into 1-inch chunks, 2 bell peppers sliced into strips, and 1 medium yellow onion sliced about 1/2-inch thick.
If you’re like me, you might already be wondering how on earth you’re going to fit all this into your slow cooker. Fear not; it’ll all come together beautifully.
Once you’ve got all your ingredients ready, toss them into the slow cooker. Seriously, just throw them all in there—sausage, peppers, onion, and then add in 2 cans of stewed tomatoes and 2 cans of tomato paste. The tomatoes give it that rich, saucy goodness we all crave.
Sprinkle in 1 1/2 tablespoons of oregano and 1 1/2 tablespoons of parsley, or if you want to make life even easier, go for that McCormick Slow Cookers Italian Herb Chicken Seasoning. I mean, who doesn’t appreciate a shortcut now and then?
Stir everything to coat it well, and then, the best part—set your slow cooker to cook for 8 hours on low or 4 hours on high. It’s like magic, really. You just walk away and let it do its thing.
Now, while your house fills with the mouthwatering aroma of Italian sausage and peppers, you can take a breather and maybe even indulge in a little guilt-free snacking. I mean, we’ve all been there, right?
You might want to have some pasta ready to serve this over or some rolls to spoon it into. When the time’s up, and you can finally partake, trust me, you’ll be amazed at how those simple ingredients turned into something so hearty and satisfying.
Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to give yourself a little pat on the back for a job well done. You deserve it!
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own.
For a lighter option, swap the Italian sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. You can also experiment with different peppers—try using poblano or jalapeño for a spicy kick.
If you’re not a fan of tomatoes, replace them with a jar of marinara sauce or a mix of your favorite salsa. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a unique flavor twist.
Finally, consider adding other veggies, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to pack in more nutrients. The possibilities are endless, so have fun customizing this dish!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
What can elevate your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers to the next level? I love serving this dish over a bed of creamy polenta or alongside fluffy garlic bread. Both options soak up the savory juices beautifully, enhancing every bite.
If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh side salad with crisp greens, tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette pairs perfectly.
You could also consider filling toasted hoagie rolls with the sausage and peppers for a delicious sandwich experience.
And let’s not forget a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta on top for a touch of creaminess.
No matter what you choose, these sides will complement the bold flavors of your dish beautifully!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers turns out perfectly, I recommend a few key tips. First, don’t skip browning the sausage beforehand; it enhances the flavor markedly.
I also suggest using a mix of colored bell peppers for a vibrant dish. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
For added depth, try incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Finally, remember to check for doneness; the sausage should reach an internal temperature of 160°F. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy every bite!