Old Time Italian Sausage and Peppers

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

1 pound sweet Italian sausage

2 bell peppers, sliced

2 yellow onions, sliced

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves

4 garlic cloves, chopped

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup Marsala wine (or chicken broth)

1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes

Salt to taste

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

Step 1:

Heat the oil in a heavy large skillet over medium heat.

Add the sausages and cook until brown on both sides, about 7 to 10 minutes.

Remove from the pan and drain.

Step 2:

Keeping the pan over medium heat.

Add the Italian seasoning, basil, and garlic and cook 2 more minutes.

Step 1:

Add the Marsala wine, tomatoes, tomato paste and stir, add chili flakes, if using.

Add the peppers, onions, salt, and pepper and bring to a simmer.

Step 1:

Return sausage to skillet with the vegetables.

Reduce heat to low, and simmer 15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

Step 1:

Serve over mashed potatoes, noodles, polenta, cauliflower rice or, if serving as a sandwich, split the hoagie rolls in half lengthwise.

Hollow out the bread from the bottom side of each roll, being careful not to puncture the crust.

Fill the bottom half of the roll with sausage mixture.

Notes:

Classic Italian Flavors: This recipe embodies traditional Italian flavors with sweet Italian sausage, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and basil. These ingredients come together to create a hearty and comforting dish reminiscent of old-fashioned Italian cooking.

Versatile Dish: The dish can be served in various ways, making it versatile for different occasions and preferences. It can be enjoyed over mashed potatoes, noodles, polenta, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal. Additionally, it can be served as a sandwich filling, offering a convenient and delicious option for lunch or dinner.

Simple Preparation: The recipe features a straightforward cooking process, involving browning the sausage, sautéing the vegetables, and simmering everything together in a flavorful sauce. It’s suitable for home cooks of all skill levels and can be easily customized with additional seasonings or ingredients.

Balanced Flavor Profile: The combination of sweet Italian sausage, savory onions and peppers, aromatic garlic and basil, and tangy tomatoes creates a well-balanced flavor profile with layers of depth. The addition of Marsala wine adds richness and complexity to the sauce.

Healthy Ingredient Options: For those watching their dietary intake, this recipe offers flexibility with ingredient options. Using chicken broth instead of Marsala wine reduces the alcohol content, while serving the dish over cauliflower rice provides a low-carb alternative to traditional starches.

Make-Ahead Option: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, making it ideal for meal prep or busy weeknights. The flavors tend to deepen and meld together even more when allowed to sit, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.

Customization: The recipe allows for customization based on personal preferences. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, the optional addition of red pepper flakes provides a spicy kick. Additionally, adjusting the seasoning levels according to taste ensures the dish suits individual flavor preferences.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use hot Italian sausage instead of sweet?

Yes, you can use hot Italian sausage if you prefer a spicier flavor profile.

Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes accordingly to control the heat level.

Can I use a different type of wine instead of Marsala?

Yes, you can substitute Marsala wine with red wine or white wine, depending on your preference.

Alternatively, you can use chicken broth for a non-alcoholic option.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

What are some serving suggestions for this dish?

This dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, pasta, polenta, or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.

It can also be served over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Reheat before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months.

Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I use different color bell peppers?

Yes, you can use any color bell peppers you prefer or a combination of colors for added visual appeal.

What does “simmer” mean in cooking?

Simmering refers to cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling.

It produces small bubbles and helps flavors meld together.

How do I know when the sauce has thickened enough?

The sauce has thickened enough when it coats the back of a spoon and has a slightly reduced consistency.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by using plant-based sausage or omitting the sausage altogether and adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.