Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is the kind of classic comfort food that combines bold flavor with effortless preparation. This hearty dish brings together juicy sausages, sweet bell peppers, and tender onions, all slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce that soaks into every bite. Whether served on a hoagie roll, over pasta, or with a side of rice, it’s a satisfying meal that works for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or game day spreads.

The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting in this recipe, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully as the ingredients gently simmer for hours. Italian sausage—whether sweet, mild, or spicy—becomes fork-tender, while the peppers and onions caramelize slightly and absorb the seasoned sauce. It’s a hands-off, no-fuss approach to a dish that tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your heat preference or ingredient availability. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping meals for the week, Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is a reliable, delicious option you’ll keep coming back to.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hands-Free Cooking – Minimal prep and no need to babysit the stove.
2. Bold, Classic Flavor – A time-tested combination of sausage, peppers, and onions in savory sauce.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep – Stores and reheats beautifully for future meals.
4. Customizable Heat Level – Use sweet or hot Italian sausage to suit your taste.
5. Great for Entertaining – Easy to scale up for parties or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or spicy)
• Bell peppers (red, green, yellow, or orange)
• Onions
• Crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
• Garlic
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Optional: red pepper flakes, tomato paste, fresh basil

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and add crushed red pepper flakes.
• Cheesy Melt: Top with mozzarella or provolone before serving.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps.
• Add Veggies: Include mushrooms or zucchini for extra texture.
• Herb-Forward: Stir in fresh basil or parsley just before serving.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage (Optional)

For extra flavor, sear the sausage links in a skillet with a little olive oil until browned. This step is optional but recommended.

Step 2: Slice the Vegetables

Cut the bell peppers into strips and the onions into slices. Mince the garlic.

Step 3: Assemble in the Crock Pot

Add the peppers, onions, and garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker. Place the sausage links on top.

Step 4: Add Sauce and Seasoning

Pour crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce over the top. Season with Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until sausages are fully cooked and vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Serve

Serve whole or sliced sausage with peppers and sauce. Optional: toast hoagie rolls and spoon the mixture inside for sandwiches.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Browning the sausages first deepens flavor and improves texture.
• Use a mix of pepper colors for a sweeter, more colorful dish.
• Don’t overcook—check for doneness at the lower end of the time range.
• If the sauce is too thin, remove the lid and cook on high for the last 30 minutes.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving—especially if using jarred sauce.

How to Serve

• Serve over pasta, rice, or polenta for a hearty dinner.
• Spoon onto toasted hoagie rolls for classic sausage and pepper sandwiches.
• Pair with a green salad and garlic bread for a balanced meal.
• Slice and serve as a filling for wraps or flatbreads.
• Top with shredded cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze sausage and pepper mixture in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen sausages?

Yes, but thaw them first and ideally brown them before adding to the slow cooker.

2. What kind of sausage is best?

Italian sausage—sweet, mild, or spicy—all work well. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage.

3. Can I make this without tomato sauce?

Yes, use chicken broth, wine, or a light garlic-butter sauce for a non-tomato version.

4. Do I need to brown the sausages first?

It’s optional, but searing adds extra flavor and helps retain texture.

5. Can I cut the sausages before cooking?

You can, but whole links stay juicier. Slice after cooking if preferred.

6. Can I cook it overnight?

Yes, set on low for 6–7 hours, and keep on “warm” until ready to serve.

7. How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered on high for the last 30 minutes or stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste.

8. Can I use marinara sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, it adds a slightly sweeter, more seasoned base.

9. Is this gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free sausage and sauce.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely—just ensure your slow cooker is large enough and stir halfway through.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is a flavorful, hands-off meal that’s as versatile as it is comforting. With rich tomato sauce, tender vegetables, and juicy sausage, this dish delivers bold, familiar flavors with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it up in sandwiches, over pasta, or as a low-carb bowl, it’s an easy crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for both everyday dinners and entertaining. Once you try it, this classic slow cooker recipe is sure to earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.

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