Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that practically cooks itself, you’ll love this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers recipe. It’s one of my go-to dishes because it’s so simple yet incredibly satisfying.
The aroma that fills my kitchen while it cooks is just heavenly! I adore how the flavors meld together, creating a delicious sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta or rolls.
Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser – everyone loves digging into a warm bowl of sausage and peppers. And the best part? Cleanup is a breeze!
Trust me; you won’t regret trying this easy, fantastic recipe.
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen, my Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers recipe takes the cake—or should I say, the sausage? This dish is all about simplicity and flavor. You toss everything into the slow cooker and let it do its magic.
The combination of Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and zesty tomatoes creates a warm, comforting dish that feels like a hug on a plate. And honestly, who doesn’t want that after a long day? Plus, the clean-up is easy, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this mouthwatering dish:
- 2 lbs Italian rope sausage, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 2 bell peppers, cut into strips
- 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, when it comes to the ingredients, don’t hesitate to mix it up a bit. If you prefer spicy sausage, go for it—just be prepared for a little extra kick.
And don’t let those bell peppers limit you; feel free to throw in some zucchini or mushrooms if they’re hanging out in your fridge. Cooking is all about using what you have and making it your own.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it over pasta, in a roll, or even on its own if you’re watching your carbs. Just remember, the more colorful your peppers, the more vibrant your dish will look. And who doesn’t want a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach?
How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Alright, let’s plunge into making this Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers recipe, shall we? First things first, grab your 2 lbs of Italian rope sausage and cut it into 1-inch chunks. I find that cutting them into uniform pieces helps them cook evenly, but hey, if you’re feeling rebellious, just chop them however you like. Toss those meaty morsels right into the slow cooker; they’re about to get cozy with some colorful veggies.
Next up, take your 2 bell peppers and slice them into strips. I usually go for a mix of red and green because, let’s be honest, it’s just more fun that way. Then, grab a medium yellow onion and slice it about 1/2-inch thick. Add these beauties to the slow cooker too. You’re creating a vibrant rainbow of flavors here, and your kitchen is going to smell amazing.
Now, open those 2 (14-ounce) cans of stewed tomatoes and pour them over the sausage and veggies, followed by the 2 (6-ounce) cans of tomato paste. This is where the magic starts to happen; it’s like a warm, saucy hug waiting to envelop everything.
Now, sprinkle in 1 1/2 tablespoons of oregano and 1 1/2 tablespoons of parsley. If you don’t have fresh herbs on hand, don’t sweat it; dried ones work just fine. For a little shortcut, you could throw in a package of McCormick Slow Cookers Italian Herb Chicken Seasoning instead. Just mix everything together in the slow cooker, making sure everything gets coated in those rich tomato flavors.
Set your slow cooker to low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours, and then step back and let it do its thing. While you’re waiting, you can kick back, relax, and maybe even binge-watch your favorite show. Just don’t forget about dinner, or you might end up with an empty slow cooker and an empty stomach.
When the timer goes off, you’ll be greeted with a wonderfully fragrant dish that’s ready to serve. You can pile it on top of pasta, spoon it into rolls, or just plunge in with a fork if you’re feeling like a rebel. It’s comforting, hearty, and best of all, it’s mostly made itself. So, get ready to dig in and enjoy the fruits of your minimal labor.
Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers Substitutions & Variations
While I love the classic combination of sausage and peppers, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make this dish your own.
For a lighter option, use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage. You can also swap out the bell peppers for other veggies like zucchini or mushrooms.
Want a kick? Add some sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. If you’re looking for a different flavor profile, try using chorizo or adding balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect blend!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
After exploring the various ways to customize your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers, it’s time to think about what to serve alongside this hearty dish.
A crusty Italian bread or hoagie rolls make fantastic companions, perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully.
You might also consider serving it over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta, which adds a nice texture.
Whatever you choose, these options will elevate your meal and make it even more satisfying!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers turns out perfectly, I recommend a few helpful tips.
First, don’t skip the browning step for the sausages; it adds great flavor. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider using red and yellow bell peppers. For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Remember to stir the ingredients halfway through cooking to assure even flavors. If you want a thicker sauce, remove the lid for the final 30 minutes.
Ultimately, leftovers taste even better, so don’t hesitate to make a bigger batch! Enjoy your delicious meal!