Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

Step-by-step instructions

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this meal. Follow these simple steps:

Prepare the sausages: Slice the Italian sausages into thick, uniform rounds. This ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
Layer in the cooker: Place the sausage rounds at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Add vegetables: Layer the sliced bell peppers and onion directly over the sausage.
Season generously: Sprinkle the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning over the vegetables.
Pour the sauce: Add the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes on top, gently stirring to combine all the ingredients.
Cook to perfection: Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the veggies are tender, and the sausages are thoroughly cooked.
Final stir: Once done, give everything a good final stir before serving hot.

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers, think outside the box! Here are some ideas:

On a Roll: Serve the mixture on crusty hoagie rolls for satisfying sausage sandwiches.
Over Pasta: Spoon the sausage and peppers over a bed of spaghetti or any pasta of your choice for a classic Italian dish.
With Rice: Pair with steamed rice to soak up all that delicious sauce.
Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese adds that extra touch.

How to store

To keep your leftovers fresh and delicious:

Cool First: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature.
Storage: Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to make it ahead of time, this dish freezes wonderfully. Just ensure to store it in a freezer-safe container, and it will last up to 3 months.
Reheat Safely: For reheating, ensure the dish reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to maintain food safety.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few pointers I’ve learned along the way to make this recipe even better:

Sauté First: For an extra layer of flavor, consider browning the sausage in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Add Spice: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.
Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil or oregano at the end can elevate the dish to an even higher level.

Creative twists

If you’re looking to shake things up, consider these variations:

Use Different Sausages: Experiment with smoked sausage, turkey sausage, or even vegan sausage for a different flavor profile.
Veggies Galore: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for more vegetable variety.
Cultural Flair: Incorporate ingredients like curry powder or smoked paprika for a unique twist that brings out different flavors.

Common questions

Can I use frozen sausages?
Yes, you can use frozen sausages, but it’s best to thaw them first for even cooking.

How long does it take to prep?
Prep time is minimal—usually around 10-15 minutes. The slow cooker does the rest!

Can I substitute the tomato sauce?
Absolutely! You can use marinara, salsa, or even diced tomatoes based on your preference.

With its ease of preparation and robust flavors, this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers recipe is bound to become a staple in your home. Enjoy making it over and over again!