Savory

Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet

Name: Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removed; 2 large bell peppers, sliced; 1 large onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth; 1 tsp (5g) dried oregano; 1 tsp (5g) dried basil; 1/2 tsp (2g) salt; 1/4 tsp (1g) black pepper; 1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp (30g) olive oil

By Opal Norwood · June 19, 2026 · Savory

Prep20 min

Cook30 min

Total50 min

Serves4

I still remember the first time I made an Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet. It was a lazy Sunday morning, and I was looking for a hearty breakfast that would satisfy my family's cravings. As I cooked the sausage and peppers in a large skillet, the aroma filled the entire house, and everyone gathered around the kitchen island, eager to taste the dish.

What I love about this recipe is that it's perfect for both slow mornings and quick weekday breakfasts. You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook the skillet in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy families.

The combination of Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that's sure to become a staple in your household. And the best part? It's incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner cook.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the steps to create a delicious Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet that's sure to impress your family and friends. From the initial prep work to the final presentation, I'll share my tips and tricks to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is perfect for anyone looking to add a new breakfast dish to their repertoire. So, let's get started and create a culinary masterpiece that will become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for slow mornings and quick weekday breakfasts.
It's incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner cook.
The combination of Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes creates a flavorful and satisfying dish.
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook the skillet in under 30 minutes.
It's a great option for busy families who need a hearty and delicious breakfast.
The dish is perfect for special occasions, such as brunches or holiday gatherings.

Why This Recipe Works

The key to a successful Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet is the layering of flavors and textures. By cooking the sausage and peppers in a specific order, you create a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

The initial step of browning the sausage is crucial, as it creates a crispy exterior and a juicy interior. Then, by adding the peppers and onions, you introduce a pop of color and a sweet, crunchy texture that complements the savory sausage perfectly.

The addition of canned tomatoes and chicken broth adds a rich, velvety sauce that ties the entire dish together. And finally, the sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese provides a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish to new heights.

By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you'll be able to create a mouth-watering Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet that's sure to impress even the most discerning palates.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to making an Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet, the quality of the ingredients is crucial. Look for sweet Italian sausage, fresh bell peppers, and onions, and use high-quality canned tomatoes and chicken broth to create a rich, velvety sauce.

In this recipe, we'll be using a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to create a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. From the savory sausage to the sweet peppers, every ingredient plays a vital role in creating a culinary masterpiece.

1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removedLook for high-quality sausage with a good balance of meat and spices. You can also use hot Italian sausage for an extra kick.
2 large bell peppers, slicedAny color bell pepper works, but red and yellow add a pop of color to the dish.
1 large onion, slicedUse a sweet onion, such as Vidalia or Maui, for the best flavor.
3 cloves garlic, mincedMince the garlic just before adding it to the skillet to preserve its flavor and aroma.
1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoesSan Marzano tomatoes are a good choice for their sweet-tart flavor and low acidity.
1 cup (250ml) chicken brothUse low-sodium broth to control the salt content of the dish.
1 tsp (5g) dried oreganoFresh oregano can be used as a substitute, but dried oregano has a more intense flavor.
1 tsp (5g) dried basilLike oregano, fresh basil can be used, but dried basil has a longer shelf life and is easier to store.
1/2 tsp (2g) saltUse kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor.
1/4 tsp (1g) black pepperFreshly ground black pepper is essential for the best flavor.
1/4 cup (30g) grated Parmesan cheeseUse high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
2 tbsp (30g) olive oilUse a good-quality olive oil with a mild flavor to avoid overpowering the dish.

Ingredients for Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet

Equipment You’ll Need

Large heavy skillet or sauté panSharp chef's knifeCutting boardMeasuring cups and spoonsWooden spoon or silicone spatulaInstant-read thermometer

How to Make Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet

1
Heat the olive oil in a large heavy skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
2
Add the sliced Italian sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3
Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and transfer it to a plate. Leave the drippings in the skillet.
4
Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are translucent and starting to caramelize, about 8-10 minutes.
5
Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute.
7
Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
8
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato sauce.
9
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the skillet, uncovered, until the sauce has thickened and the flavors have melded together, about 10-15 minutes.
10
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
11
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
12
Serve the Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, if desired.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality ingredients, including sweet Italian sausage and fresh bell peppers, for the best flavor.
Don't overcook the sausage, as it can become dry and tough.
Let the skillet simmer for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese just before serving to preserve its texture and flavor.
Serve the skillet with crusty bread or over rice or pasta for a filling meal.
Experiment with different types of sausage, such as hot Italian sausage or Chorizo, for a spicy kick.
Add other vegetables, such as diced zucchini or sliced mushrooms, to the skillet for added flavor and nutrition.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the sausage, which can make it dry and tough.
Not simmering the skillet long enough, which can result in a sauce that's not thickened and flavorful.
Not using high-quality ingredients, which can affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
Not stirring in the Parmesan cheese just before serving, which can cause it to become gritty and separate.
Not serving the skillet hot, which can cause the cheese to congeal and the sauce to thicken too much.
Not experimenting with different ingredients and seasonings, which can result in a dish that's boring and uninteresting.

Variations and Substitutions

Use different types of sausage, such as Chorizo or Knockwurst, for a spicy kick.
Add other vegetables, such as diced zucchini or sliced mushrooms, to the skillet for added flavor and nutrition.
Use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, but be sure to cook them down to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra spicy kick.
Serve the skillet with crusty bread or over rice or pasta for a filling meal.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or provolone, for a unique flavor and texture.

What to Serve With Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet

The Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Serve it hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, for a satisfying breakfast or brunch.

Pair the skillet with crusty bread or over rice or pasta for a filling meal. You can also serve it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and nutritious meal.

Crusty breadRicePastaRoasted vegetablesGreen saladGrilled meats

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

The Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply thaw the skillet overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

To freeze, let the skillet cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label and date the container, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the skillet overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

When reheating the skillet, be sure to stir it occasionally to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You can also add a little water or chicken broth to the skillet if it becomes too thick during reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of sausage, such as Chorizo or Knockwurst, for a spicy kick. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning accordingly.

Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?

Yes, you can add other vegetables, such as diced zucchini or sliced mushrooms, to the skillet for added flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning accordingly.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned, but be sure to cook them down to create a rich and flavorful sauce. You may need to add a little more liquid to the skillet to prevent it from becoming too thick.

Can I serve the skillet with crusty bread or over rice or pasta?

Yes, you can serve the skillet with crusty bread or over rice or pasta for a filling meal. The skillet is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways.

Can I freeze the skillet for later use?

Yes, you can freeze the skillet for up to 2 months. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Label and date the container, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw the skillet overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

How do I reheat the skillet without drying it out?

To reheat the skillet without drying it out, be sure to stir it occasionally and add a little water or chicken broth if it becomes too thick. You can also reheat it over low heat, covered, to prevent the sauce from evaporating too quickly.

Can I make the skillet ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make the skillet ahead of time and reheat it later. Simply cook the skillet as directed, then let it cool completely. Transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. To reheat, simply thaw the skillet overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Can I serve the skillet at a party or special occasion?

Yes, the Italian Sausage And Pepper Skillet is a great dish to serve at a party or special occasion. It's easy to make in large quantities and can be served with a variety of sides, such as crusty bread or a green salad.

The Full Recipe

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