Sausage and Peppers Crock Pot (Printer-Friendly Version)
Slow-cooked Italian sausage paired with bell peppers and onions for easy, tasty meals.
# Ingredients Needed:
→ Meat
01 -
1 package (16 oz) Italian sweet sausage links
02 -
2 tablespoons salted butter
→ Vegetables
03 -
1 green bell pepper, sliced
04 -
1 red bell pepper, sliced
05 -
1 medium onion, sliced
→ Sauces and Seasonings
06 -
1 cup marinara sauce
07 -
1 tablespoon tomato paste
08 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
09 -
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
10 -
Salt, to taste
11 -
Black pepper, to taste
# Step-by-Step Directions:
01 -
Slice the green and red bell peppers along with the onion into thin strips.
02 -
Place the sliced peppers and onions into a 4 to 6-quart slow cooker. Add Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Pour marinara sauce and tomato paste over the vegetables and stir to combine.
03 -
Cover and cook on low heat for 2 hours, stirring occasionally until the peppers and onions soften.
04 -
Meanwhile, heat butter in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the Italian sausages on all sides, approximately 5 to 7 minutes. This step is optional but adds flavor.
05 -
Add the browned sausages to the slow cooker with the vegetables. Cook on low for an additional 4 hours, stirring every hour gently to avoid breaking the sausages.
06 -
If desired, remove sausages, slice them, and return to the slow cooker. Serve warm, either on their own, in sandwiches, or over pasta.
# Helpful Hints:
01 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
02 -
For an oven alternative, bake the prepared vegetables and sausages at 400°F for 25-35 minutes, turning midway for even cooking.
03 -
To add more sauce, serve with extra warmed marinara as desired.