Easy Italian Sausage Peppers Onions

This Italian sausage skillet was inspired by nights when I wanted real comfort food with little fuss and big flavor The combo of juicy sweet sausages with velvety sautéed onions and peppers all wrapped in herbs and a splash of wine comes together in about 45 minutes and turns any regular evening into an Italian trattoria moment at home

I remember when I first made this on a chilly Sunday dinner and every bite brought my family back to my grandma’s rustic kitchen even though we were miles away

Ingredients

• Sweet Italian sausage links: Choose high-quality sausages from a trusted butcher or deli since they are the star of the dish
• Butter: Use real butter for richness and a smooth coating over the veggies
• Yellow onion: Pick one that is heavy and free of soft spots for a sweet base
• Red onion: Adds color and a mild bite Choose a firm onion without bruises
• Garlic: Fresh cloves bring out layers of flavor Select bulbs that feel tight and heavy
• Red bell pepper: Go for a shiny skin and firm feel for sweetness and color
• Green bell pepper: Brings earthiness with a crisp freshness The skin should snap under gentle pressure
• Dried basil and oregano: Use reputable brands or dried herbs for depth If you have fresh use a bit more for brightness
• White wine: Dry varieties like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc add acidity and deglaze the pan beautifully plus they enhance the sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Sausage:

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat Allow it to warm so your sausages do not steam but brown Add your sausage links Arrange them evenly and cook until browned on all sides turning them with tongs about 5 to 7 minutes The browning will create flavor at the bottom of the pan Remove the sausages to a plate Let them cool slightly then slice into bite-sized rounds to expose the juicy interior

Sauté the Veggies:

In the same skillet add the butter letting it melt and coat the pan Add the sliced yellow and red onions plus minced garlic Stir gently on medium heat Cook these slowly for about 2 to 3 minutes until the onions start to become translucent and take on a sweet aroma Drop in the bell peppers both red and green Toss everything so the veggies begin to soften and pick up the sausage flavor from the pan Sprinkle the dried basil and dried oregano over the vegetables They should become fragrant Pour in the white wine to lift all those browned bits, stirring with a wooden spoon Let the veggies cook for another 5 to 7 minutes until everything is softened but the peppers still have a bit of bite

Combine and Simmer:

Return the sausage pieces to the skillet Nestle them into the veggie and wine mixture so the juices spread throughout Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet Let the dish simmer for about 15 minutes This is when the flavors deepen and meld If the skillet gets dry, add another splash of wine to maintain moisture and make a light sauce

Save

The sweet Italian sausage always reminds me of bustling street markets in Rome where local butchers would pile their links sky-high The sausage brings a savory and herbal backbone to this skillet that ties everything together and always sparks memories of my family’s kitchen table stories

Storage Tips

Keep leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated for up to three days This dish actually gets better by the next day as the flavors mingle Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or wine to keep it moist

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find sweet Italian sausages try chicken sausage or even vegan links for a plant-based version Red wine will work in place of white for a bolder taste Out of fresh bell peppers Use frozen just add them after the onions so they do not get soggy

Serving Suggestions

Serve over warm toasted baguette halves or alongside creamy polenta For a lower carb option try the sausage and peppers with a salad of baby arugula or wilted spinach I also like to pile leftovers into a soft hoagie roll for an effortless lunch

Cultural Context

Italian-American home cooks have been making versions of this dish for generations and it shows up everywhere in Little Italy street festivals and family gatherings It is simple comforting and always meant to be shared

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use spicy sausage instead of sweet?

Absolutely! Spicy Italian sausage adds extra heat and depth. Adjust seasonings to balance the flavors.

→ Are other vegetables suitable for this dish?

Yes, mushrooms, zucchini, or yellow squash pair well and can be sautéed with the peppers and onions.

→ What alternatives can I use instead of white wine?

Low-sodium chicken broth or vegetable broth works well, providing depth without alcohol.

→ How do I prevent the sausage from drying out?

Browning the sausage first locks in juices. Simmer gently in the vegetables and liquid to keep it moist.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

Crusty bread, pasta, rice, or polenta all complement the flavors and soak up the savory sauce nicely.