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Savory Sausage and Peppers Skillet with Italian Herbs

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A quick and comforting Italian-inspired skillet dinner featuring browned sausage, sweet bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs, finished with balsamic and fresh basil. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is endlessly customizable and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb Italian sausage (links or bulk, mild or spicy)
  • 3 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, and green; sliced)
  • 1 large yellow onion (thinly sliced)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or basil
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Slice the bell peppers into 1/2-inch strips, the onion into thin half-moons, and mince the garlic. If using sausage links, slice them into 1-inch pieces.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides and cooked through (internal temp should reach 160°F for pork or chicken sausage). Remove sausage to a plate.
  3. Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Add sliced onions and bell peppers. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are soft and peppers start to caramelize. Add a splash of water if veggies stick.
  4. Stir in minced garlic. Sprinkle dried oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper over the veggies. Cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
  5. Return browned sausage to the skillet. Toss everything together. Pour in balsamic vinegar, scraping up brown bits from the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until everything is glossy and well coated.
  6. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil. Stir and taste for seasoning, adding extra salt or balsamic if needed.
  7. Serve hot, straight from the skillet. Top with grated Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For a lighter version, use chicken or turkey sausage. To make dairy-free, skip the Parmesan or use a vegan cheese. Add cooked rice, quinoa, or pasta for a heartier meal. Taste and adjust herbs and seasoning as you go. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: sausage and peppers, Italian skillet, easy dinner, one-pan meal, comfort food, gluten-free, weeknight dinner, family recipe

Find it online: https://chrisfeasts.com/savory-sausage-and-peppers-skillet-recipe-easy-italian-herbs-dinner/