Slow Cooker Sausages, Peppers, and Onions
When it comes to effortless comfort food, few dishes rival the hearty charm of sausages, peppers, and onions simmered to perfection. This slow cooker recipe brings out the best in these timeless ingredients, creating a rich, savory blend that’s irresistibly satisfying.
Perfect for busy days, this dish requires minimal prep yet delivers maximum flavor. Searing the sausages enhances the sauce with their bold, spiced juices, while the slow cooker does the heavy lifting. The result? Tender vegetables infused with robust, Italian-inspired seasonings.
Whether served over crusty bread, creamy polenta, or simply enjoyed on its own, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With just a handful of pantry staples and a little patience, dinner transforms into a celebration of bold flavors and comforting simplicity.
Slow Cooker Sausages, Peppers, and Onions: Ingredients Spotlight
Sweet or Hot Italian Sausage
The heart of this dish, these sausages bring bold, spiced flavors that seep into the sauce, elevating every bite with their robust essence.
Bell Peppers
Vibrant and juicy, these colorful beauties add sweetness and a touch of freshness, balancing the savory depth of the dish.
Yellow Onion
Mild yet flavorful, the onion infuses the recipe with a subtle, caramel-like sweetness as it tenderizes in the slow cooker.
Crushed Tomatoes
A rich, tangy base that binds the flavors together, creating a luscious sauce perfect for soaking into bread or pasta.
Dried Oregano
This classic herb adds an earthy aroma, enhancing the dish with its Mediterranean warmth and complexity.
Recipe Tips
- Brown the Sausages for Maximum Flavor
Don’t skip the skillet! Browning the sausages before adding them to the slow cooker is crucial for flavor. This step locks in the juices, creates a flavorful crust, and enriches the sauce with a smoky, spiced depth from the caramelized bits left in the pan. - Layer Your Ingredients Strategically
To ensure even cooking, place the bell peppers and onions at the bottom of the slow cooker. These vegetables need more time to soften and will benefit from soaking up the juices from the sausages and tomatoes as they cook. - Customize the Spice Level
Add or omit the crushed red pepper depending on your preferred heat level. For a more robust flavor, consider using hot Italian sausages or doubling up on oregano and garlic powder to enhance the seasoning.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Sausages, Peppers, and Onions
- Crusty Bread or Ciabatta Rolls
Serve this dish with warm, crusty bread or toasted ciabatta rolls to soak up the rich tomato-based sauce. It’s an easy way to turn the meal into hearty sausage sandwiches. - Creamy Polenta
Pair the sausages and peppers with a side of creamy polenta. The smooth, buttery texture complements the bold flavors and balances the dish beautifully. - Simple Garden Salad
A light, fresh salad with crisp greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the dish’s richness. It also provides a balanced, wholesome meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen sausages for this recipe?
A: While fresh sausages are ideal, you can use frozen ones if needed. Just thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before browning to ensure even cooking and flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Let the dish cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave for best results.
Q: Can I make this dish spicier?
A: Absolutely! Use hot Italian sausages, increase the crushed red pepper, or add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
Q: What if I don’t have a Parmesan rind?
A: No problem! The rind adds depth, but the recipe is still flavorful without it. You can substitute with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before serving.
Slow Cooker Sausages, Peppers, and Onions
Ingredients
- Sweet or Hot Italian Sausage: 1½ to 2 pounds
- Bell Peppers: 3 any colors, sliced into ¼-inch strips
- Yellow Onion: 1 large halved and sliced into ¼-inch pieces
- Crushed Tomatoes: One 14-ounce can
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon
- Crushed Red Pepper: ½ teaspoon optional
- Parmesan Rind: 1 piece optional
- Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Basil Leaves: Torn for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Base
- In a 5- to 8-quart slow cooker, place the sliced bell peppers and onion. Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper if desired. Add the Parmesan rind, if using. Season generously with salt and black pepper, then mix thoroughly to combine.
- Sear the Sausages
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages, cooking and turning them occasionally until browned evenly on all sides, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Once browned, transfer the sausages to the slow cooker.
- Deglaze and Combine
- Turn off the heat under the skillet and pour in the crushed tomatoes. Scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to loosen any browned bits. Pour the tomato mixture into the slow cooker over the vegetables and sausages. Gently stir the contents to distribute the sauce evenly.
- Cook and Serve
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Allow the dish to cook for 4 to 6 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and the sausages are thoroughly cooked. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Garnish with torn basil leaves before serving, if desired.
