If you're craving a classic hearty, comforting dish, this Old-School Fried Sausage, Onions, and Peppers recipe is your ticket to flavor heaven! Packed with juicy Italian sausage, tender bell peppers, sweet onions, and a rich tomato-infused sauce, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. With its versatility—serve it over creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy noodles, or as a loaded sandwich—it’s no wonder this dish has been a family favorite for generations.
Let’s dive into what makes this recipe absolutely irresistible and how you can perfect it at home!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage: The star of the show! These sausages bring a delicious balance of savory and slightly sweet flavors that complement the other ingredients beautifully.
- 2 bell peppers, sliced: Adds color, crunch, and a sweet undertone to the dish. Use a mix of red, green, or yellow for vibrant flavor and visual appeal.
- 2 yellow onions, sliced: Yellow onions caramelize perfectly, adding a hint of sweetness to contrast the rich sausage.
Sauce & Flavor Enhancers
- 4 garlic cloves, chopped: Garlic brings a robust depth of flavor, enhancing the entire dish.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- 1 cup Marsala wine (or chicken broth): Marsala wine gives a rich, slightly sweet flavor, while chicken broth works well for an alcohol-free option.
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes help create a luscious, savory sauce that coats the sausage and veggies perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt + 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: For seasoning and balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick of heat to spice things up.
Herbs & Oils
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil: Helps sear the sausage and adds a smooth, rich texture to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: Brings together classic Mediterranean herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves: Fresh basil brightens up the dish with its aromatic, peppery flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sear the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat the extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausages and cook until golden brown on both sides (about 5-6 minutes per side). Once browned, remove the sausages from the pan and drain any excess oil. Set aside.
Pro Tip: Browning the sausages creates a crispy, caramelized exterior that locks in the juicy flavors.
2. Build the Flavor Base
With the skillet still on medium heat, add the Italian seasoning, chopped garlic, and fresh basil. Stir and cook for about 2 minutes, allowing the garlic to release its aromatic oils and the herbs to bloom.
3. Deglaze and Create the Sauce
Pour in the Marsala wine (or chicken broth) to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the skillet. Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes.
Why Deglaze? Deglazing lifts the caramelized flavor from the bottom of the skillet, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
4. Add the Veggies
Stir in the sliced bell peppers and yellow onions, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This allows the vegetables to soften and soak up the incredible sauce.
5. Simmer with the Sausage
Return the browned sausages to the skillet, nestling them among the peppers, onions, and sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let everything simmer for 15 minutes. By now, the sauce will have thickened, and the flavors will have melded beautifully.
Pro Tip: Simmering the sausage in the sauce ensures they stay juicy and flavorful while absorbing all those rich tomato and herb flavors.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve this mouthwatering sausage, peppers, and onions over:
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy and comforting—perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Noodles: Toss with pasta for a hearty Italian-inspired dinner.
- Polenta: A soft, savory base that pairs perfectly with this dish.
- Cauliflower rice: A low-carb option that’s still delicious and satisfying.
- Hoagie rolls: For the ultimate sandwich, hollow out the bottom half of the roll, load it with the sausage mixture, and enjoy a flavor-packed bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish combines simple ingredients into an impressive, restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The juicy sausage, tender veggies, and rich sauce create an explosion of flavors that’s both nostalgic and satisfying. It’s a one-pan wonder, which means minimal cleanup and maximum enjoyment!
Pro Tips for Perfect Sausage, Onions, and Peppers
- Use high-quality Italian sausage: Look for fresh sweet Italian sausage from your local butcher for the best flavor.
- Mix pepper colors: A combination of red, green, and yellow bell peppers adds sweetness and visual appeal.
- Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing time for the sauce to thicken and the flavors to develop is key to perfection.
- Deglaze properly: Scraping up the brown bits ensures no flavor is wasted in the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp Caesar salad and garlic bread for a full Italian meal.
- Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or steamed vegetables for a hearty dinner.
- For sandwiches, add a slice of provolone cheese on top and broil for 2 minutes for a melty, irresistible finish.
Final Thoughts
This Old-School Fried Sausage, Onions, and Peppers recipe is as simple as it is delicious. The combination of bold flavors, versatile serving options, and easy preparation makes it a go-to recipe that your family will request again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish delivers every time.