Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)

These Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers are not only flavorful but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish features savory chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage, a colorful medley of peppers, and aromatic onions simmered to perfection. Whether served on hot dog buns or over pasta, this recipe is sure to win over your family and friends with its rich taste and comforting essence.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it do the work.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of chicken sausages, peppers, and spices creates a deliciously hearty meal.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own, in a sub, or over pasta for a satisfying dinner.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish serves up to 10, making it ideal for parties or family gatherings.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables and lean proteins while being low in carbs.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious meal.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Slow cooker (4 to 6-quart)
• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Why These Tools Matter

• Slow Cooker: Allows for hands-free cooking while developing deep flavors over several hours.
• Large Skillet: Perfect for searing sausages, enhancing their taste before adding them to the slow cooker.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for safely preparing your vegetables with ease.

Ingredients

These Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers are so tasty and incredibly flavorful and simple to make. Chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage, peppers, onions, and seasoning.

For the Vegetables

• 4 red peppers, sliced
• 4 green peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Seasoning

• 1 Tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 Tablespoon garlic powder

For the Sauce

• 1 ¼ cups marinara sauce

For the Sausages

• 2 Tablespoons salted butter
• 2 (19 ounce) packages chicken Italian sausages

To Serve

• Hot dog buns (or cooked pasta), to serve

How to Make Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Add 4 sliced red peppers, 4 sliced green peppers, and 1 sliced large onion into a wide (or oval) slow cooker that holds 4 to 6 quarts.

Step 2: Season the Veggies

Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste. Add in 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning and ½ tablespoon of garlic powder.

Step 3: Add Marinara Sauce

Pour 1¼ cups of marinara sauce over the peppers and onion mixture. Stir everything well until evenly coated. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Brown the Sausages

When the peppers and onions are soft, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in 2 tablespoons of salted butter. Sear both sides of all the chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage links until they are golden brown. Once browned, add them directly into the slow cooker. If you prefer not to brown them first, you can just add them raw into the slow cooker instead.

Step 5: Slow Cook Everything Together

Cover the slow cooker again and continue cooking on low for an additional 4 hours. Stir every hour gently so as not to break up the sausages as they soften during cooking.

Step 6: Slice if Desired

If you like your sausages sliced, carefully remove them from the crock pot after cooking. Slice them up before adding them back into the mixture.

Step 7: Serve Your Dish

Serve your delicious Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers on their own or in hot dog buns for an enjoyable meal!

Enjoy your flavorful creation!

How to Serve Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just enjoying a quiet meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

On Sub Rolls

• Enjoy the sausage and peppers piled high on soft sub rolls for an easy and hearty sandwich option.

With Pasta

• Serve over cooked pasta for a comforting and filling meal that pairs perfectly with the rich marinara sauce.

As a Standalone Dish

• For a low-carb option, serve it directly from the crock pot as a delicious main course without any bread or pasta.

With Rice

• Pair with fluffy rice to soak up the flavorful sauce, making for a satisfying side that complements the dish well.

In Tacos

• Use taco shells to create fun and unique tacos filled with sausage and peppers, topped with your favorite garnishes like sour cream or avocado.

With Salad

• Serve alongside a fresh green salad for a light and healthy balance to this hearty dish, adding crunch and freshness to your meal.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)

Perfecting your Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers can take this recipe from good to great. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience:

• Choose Quality Sausages: Select high-quality chicken Italian sausages for the best flavor and texture in your dish.
• Cut Vegetables Evenly: Ensure all peppers and onions are sliced uniformly. This allows them to cook evenly, enhancing their flavor.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the seasonings based on your taste preferences. You might want more garlic or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allow enough time for the ingredients to meld together. Cooking on low for the recommended hours ensures maximum flavor.
• Stir Occasionally: Give everything a gentle stir during cooking. This helps distribute flavors while preventing sticking at the bottom of the pot.
• Serve Warm: Keep your dish warm until ready to serve. It tastes best when enjoyed fresh from the crock pot!

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)

When serving Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers, pairing it with delicious sides can enhance the meal even further. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, garlic bread adds a crunchy texture that complements this dish well.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a colorful and nutritious side that balances out the richness of the sausage.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and tanginess, which contrasts nicely with the warm flavors of sausage and peppers.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are an excellent side that brings comfort to any meal, especially when paired with dipping sauces.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet grilled corn adds a smoky flavor profile that enhances your overall dining experience.
6. Cheesy Polenta: Creamy polenta topped with cheese creates a delightful base that pairs beautifully with sausage and peppers.
7. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients while providing a mild flavor that balances out richer dishes.
8. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice offers a light base that absorbs flavors well without adding heaviness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season your vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Always add salt, pepper, and herbs to enhance taste.
• Overcooking the sausages: Cooking sausages for too long can make them dry. Monitor cooking times closely, especially after browning them.
• Not stirring occasionally: Neglecting to stir the mixture might cause uneven cooking. Stir every hour to ensure even heat distribution.
• Using the wrong size slow cooker: A small slow cooker may not accommodate all ingredients. Use a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker for best results.
• Ignoring freshness of ingredients: Using wilted or spoiled vegetables can ruin the dish. Always opt for fresh produce for vibrant flavors.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage works best in Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)?

Chicken Chicken Chicken Italian sausage is a great option as it adds flavor while keeping the dish light.

Can I use different types of peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix in yellow or orange peppers for a colorful twist.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well in the fridge and also freezes nicely, making it perfect for meal prep.

How do I customize my Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers (+Video)?

You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is an incredibly tasty and versatile dish that’s perfect for any meal. Its simplicity allows you to customize it easily—try different vegetables, spices, or serving options! Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

---