Best Ever Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Recipe

Juicy sausages seared to golden perfection, tender-sweet bell peppers, deeply caramelized onions, and a rich tomato-based sauce seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs – this one-pan sausage skillet is pure comfort food. Whether you’re feeding the family or craving a cozy dinner, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Sausage, Peppers, and Onions Recipe

Bold, hearty flavors from perfectly seared sausages.
One-pan convenience means less cleanup.
Ready in under 40 minutes.
Easily adaptable for sandwiches, pasta, or low-carb meals.

Ingredients & Their Roles

1 tbsp vegetable oil – Helps sausages and vegetables sear without sticking.
8 sausages (Cumberland, Andouille, or Bratwurst) – The star protein, bringing savory, juicy bites.
2 onions, thinly sliced – Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized.
2 red bell peppers, thinly sliced – Sweet and colorful for flavor and presentation.
2 orange bell peppers, thinly sliced – Adds vibrant color contrast and natural sweetness.
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped – Infuses the dish with rich, aromatic flavor.
2 cups chopped tomatoes – Forms the base of the sauce, adding freshness and acidity.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that ties everything together with classic Mediterranean flavor.
Salt & black pepper – Essential for seasoning and balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Sausages

Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Add vegetable oil. Place sausages in the skillet and sear for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened and beginning to caramelize.

Step 3: Add Peppers & Garlic

Stir in red and orange bell peppers along with the chopped garlic. Cook for about 3 minutes, until peppers are slightly tender and fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add the chopped tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low, season with salt and pepper, and return the sausages to the pan. Let everything cook together for another 10–12 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Pro Tips for Perfect Sausage, Peppers, and Onions

Use fresh, high-quality sausages for the best flavor.
For a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine while sautéing the vegetables.
If you like spice, swap in hot Italian sausages or add red pepper flakes.
Don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning sausages – this ensures a proper sear.