Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is a classic, hearty dish made easy in the slow cooker. Juicy Italian sausage is slow-cooked with sweet bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and simple seasonings to create a flavorful and comforting meal with minimal effort. Perfect for serving over pasta, in hoagie rolls, or on its own for a low-carb option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Only a few ingredients and almost no prep
• Deliciously juicy sausages with tender, flavorful peppers and onions
• Great for feeding a crowd or meal prepping
• Versatile—serve in rolls, over pasta, or with rice
• Naturally gluten-free and low-carb (without bread or pasta)

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage links (mild or hot)
• Bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
• Yellow or red onion
• Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• Garlic, minced
• Olive oil
• Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, tomato paste, or balsamic vinegar

Directions

this recipe

1. Lightly brown the sausage links in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side (optional but recommended for flavor).
2. Place sliced bell peppers and onions in the bottom of the crock pot.
3. Add the sausages on top of the vegetables.
4. Pour diced tomatoes over everything, then add garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add crushed red pepper if you like it spicy.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until sausages are cooked through and vegetables are tender.
6. Slice sausages if desired and stir into the pepper mixture.
7. Serve hot in hoagie rolls, over pasta or rice, or with roasted potatoes.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours on low or 3–4 hours on high
Total time: About 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)

Variations

• Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option
• Add tomato paste for a thicker, richer sauce
• Mix in mushrooms or zucchini for added vegetables
• Serve with melted provolone or mozzarella cheese in toasted rolls
• Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container.
Reheat in the microwave or in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use frozen sausages?

Yes, but thaw them first for even cooking and browning if you’re searing them.

Should I brown the sausage first?

It’s optional, but searing adds extra flavor and helps the sausage hold its shape better.

Can I use spicy sausage?

Absolutely—use hot Italian sausage for a kick of heat.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

In hoagie rolls with cheese, over pasta, rice, or polenta, or on its own for a low-carb meal.

Can I use different types of peppers?

Yes, use any combination of red, yellow, green, or orange bell peppers.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the ingredients in the crock pot insert the night before and refrigerate. Cook the next day.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, just skip the bread or pasta and enjoy it with a side of vegetables or salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just make sure your crock pot is large enough and adjust the cook time slightly.

What’s a good side dish for sausage and peppers?

Garlic bread, salad, roasted potatoes, or pasta all work well.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, topping with shredded mozzarella, provolone, or Parmesan is a delicious option.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is the ultimate no-fuss comfort food—flavorful, filling, and effortlessly delicious. With juicy sausage, tender peppers and onions, and savory tomato goodness, this dish is as versatile as it is satisfying. Whether you’re serving it in a sandwich or over pasta, it’s a slow cooker classic you’ll turn to again and again.

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