Description

Craving a hearty, Italian-inspired dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and minimal effort? Look no further than Slow Cooker Italian Sausage and Peppers! This classic recipe combines juicy Italian sausage with vibrant bell peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce, infused with aromatic herbs, all effortlessly cooked in a slow cooker. It’s a versatile dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, pasta, or even on its own, bringing the warmth of an Italian kitchen to your table

Ingredients

Italian Sausage (1.5 lbs, mild or spicy): Juicy and flavorful, the star of the dish.
- Substitution: Turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage for vegetarian (adjust cooking time slightly).
Bell Peppers (2, any color, sliced): Add sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- Substitution: Poblano peppers for mild heat or extra onions.
Onion (1, sliced): Provides savory, sweet depth.
- Substitution: Shallots, red onion, or 1 tsp onion powder.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavor.
- Substitution: ¾ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz, undrained): Creates a rich, tangy sauce base.
- Substitution: Fresh diced tomatoes (1.5 cups) or crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Brings bold, earthy Italian flavor.
- Substitution: Fresh oregano (1 tbsp) or dried Italian seasoning.
Dried Basil (1 tsp): Adds sweet, herbaceous notes.
- Substitution: Fresh basil (1 tbsp, added at the end) or dried thyme.
Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- Substitution: Sea salt or low-sodium options for dietary needs.
Crusty Rolls or Pasta (for serving): Perfect for sandwiches or soaking up the sauce.
- Substitution: Hoagie rolls, gluten-free rolls, rice, or polenta.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Substitution: Fresh basil, chives, or no garnish.

Why They’re Important: The sausage provides bold, meaty flavor, bell peppers and onions add texture and sweetness, and tomatoes create a robust sauce. Herbs deliver authentic Italian depth, while parsley and rolls or pasta complete the dish with freshness and comfort.

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Instructions

Step 1: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

Place 1.5 lbs Italian sausage (mild or spicy) in the slow cooker. Add 2 sliced bell peppers, 1 sliced onion, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 can (14 oz) undrained diced tomatoes, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried basil, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of pepper.
Stir gently to combine, ensuring the sausage and vegetables are evenly coated with the tomatoes and seasonings.
- Tip: Keep sausages whole for easier serving, or prick them lightly with a fork to release flavor into the sauce. Slice vegetables thinly for even cooking.

Step 2: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the sausage is cooked through (internal temperature of 160°F/71°C for pork sausage) and the vegetables are tender.
Check at the lower end of the time range to avoid overcooking; the sausage should be juicy, and the vegetables should be soft but not mushy.
- Tip: Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even flavor distribution, but avoid lifting the lid too often. If the sauce is too thin, cook uncovered on high for the last 15-30 minutes to reduce.

Step 3: Serve

Stir the mixture to blend the flavors and check the consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
Serve hot on crusty rolls for sandwiches (slice sausages lengthwise if desired) or over cooked pasta, ensuring a mix of sausage, vegetables, and sauce in each portion.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish.
- Tip: For sandwiches, toast rolls lightly and add a slice of provolone or mozzarella for a melty touch. For pasta, toss with the sauce for better coating.