Spicy Sausage and Bell Pepper Skillet – A Bold, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal

This Spicy Sausage and Bell Pepper Skillet is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings together juicy sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a spicy kick in every bite. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this one-pan meal is ready in just 30 minutes and offers a satisfying combination of heat, savory goodness, and freshness. Serve it over rice, pasta, or even as a hearty filling for sandwiches!

Key Information

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Number of Servings: 4
• Serving Size: 1 bowl

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 700mg

Ingredients List

• Spicy Italian sausage – 1 lb (450g), sliced into rounds
• Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
• Onion – 1 medium, sliced
• Garlic cloves – 3, minced
• Red bell pepper – 1 large, sliced
• Yellow bell pepper – 1 large, sliced
• Green bell pepper – 1 large, sliced
• Cherry tomatoes – 1 cup (150g), halved
• Crushed red pepper flakes – 1/2 teaspoon (adjust to taste)
• Paprika – 1 teaspoon
• Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
• Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
• Fresh basil – 1/4 cup, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Detailed Method of Preparation

1. Cook the Sausage
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage rounds and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan for extra flavor.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
   In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the onions begin to soften and turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the Bell Peppers
   Add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender but still slightly crisp. They should start to caramelize slightly, adding to the flavor.
4. Combine with Sausage and Tomatoes
   Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and let cook for another 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes soften and everything is heated through.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Garnish
   Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or red pepper flakes if desired. Sprinkle with fresh chopped basil if using. Serve hot!

Tips for Culinary Success

• Choose Your Sausage Wisely: Spicy Italian sausage adds heat and depth to this dish, but you can swap it with mild Italian sausage if you prefer less spice. For even more heat, try using chorizo or andouille sausage.
• Mix Up the Peppers: Using a variety of colored bell peppers adds both visual appeal and flavor balance. If you prefer a spicier dish, consider adding sliced jalapeños or another hot pepper variety.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it over rice, pasta, or quinoa for a heartier meal. It also makes a fantastic filling for sandwiches or wraps.
• Keep the Sausage Juicy: Avoid overcooking the sausage, as it can become dry. Browning it on medium-high heat for a few minutes on each side usually does the trick.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe with chicken sausage?
A: Absolutely! Chicken sausage is a great lower-fat alternative. Just keep in mind that the flavor may be milder, so you might want to add a bit more crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it needs moisture.

Q: Can I use frozen bell peppers?
A: Yes, frozen bell peppers can be used in this recipe. However, they may release more water during cooking, so cook them a bit longer to reduce excess liquid.

Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, this Spicy Sausage and Bell Pepper Skillet is naturally gluten-free as long as you choose gluten-free sausage. Be sure to check the label on the sausage packaging.

With its bold flavors and vibrant colors, this Spicy Sausage and Bell Pepper Skillet is a delightful, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to spice up your dinner routine. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or just enjoying it on its own, this skillet dish is a delicious way to bring some heat and hearty flavors to the table. Try it out tonight and enjoy the simplicity of a one-pan meal that packs a flavorful punch!