Bring ease to your weekday dinners with Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers. It’s a one-pot meal with minimal prep and bold flavors. This dish combines tender sausages and sweet bell peppers, all infused with a rich tomato sauce. Set it, forget it, and enjoy a home-cooked meal without hovering over the stove.

• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4-5 hours on Low or 2-3 hours on High
• Total Time: 4 hours and 10 minutes
• Servings: 4-6

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal cleanup: Just one skillet and your slow cooker.
• Hands-free cooking: Let the slow cooker do the job while you relax.
• Flexible timing: Set it on Low for all-day cooking or High for a quicker meal.
• Hearty and satisfying: A complete meal loaded with protein and vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp Olive oil: Helps brown the sausage for added flavor.
• 6 medium Pork sausage links: Use your favorite variety for depth of flavor.
• 3 large Bell peppers (cut into strips): Provide sweetness and color. Any color pepper works.
• 1 large Onion (sliced into half moons, same width as pepper strips): Adds a caramelized sweetness when cooked.
• 6 cloves Garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with a robust aroma.
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs. Substitute with thyme and oregano if needed.
• 1/2 tsp Sea salt: Enhances the flavors in the dish.
• 1/4 tsp Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of heat.
• 1 1/2 cups Marinara sauce: Bathes everything in a rich tomato base. Use homemade or your preferred store-bought brand.

How to Make It

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the sausage links. Brown them for about 2 minutes per side. You’re looking to develop a nice color without cooking them through. This step adds a delicious caramelized crust and depth of flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Vegetables

While the sausages are browning, combine bell peppers, onion slices, garlic, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper in your slow cooker. Toss them well to coat evenly. The olive oil and seasoning will start to meld the flavors together right away.

Step 3: Add Marinara and Sausages

Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the vegetable mixture in the slow cooker. This ensures the sauce blends well with the vegetables as they cook. When the sausages are ready, place them on top of the vegetables.

Step 4: Cook Slowly

Set your slow cooker on Low for 4-5 hours or High for 2-3 hours. The slow and steady heat will cook the sausages through while melding all the flavors. You’ll know it’s done when the sausages are firm and cooked all the way through, and the peppers are tender.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use chicken sausage instead of pork?

Absolutely. Chicken sausage is a great alternative if you prefer a leaner protein. The cooking time remains the same.

What sides go well with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a crusty bread or over a bed of rice or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple side salad complements it nicely.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop for best results.