When it’s too hot to turn on the oven but you still have to get dinner on the table, the slow cooker is your best friend. This recipe for slow-cooker sausage and peppers is not only perfect for those hot summer nights, but also for those extremely busy weeknights. Savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, sweet onions, and rich tomato sauce practically cook themselves with very little hands-on prep. Whether you serve it over pasta, pile it onto toasted hoagie rolls, or enjoy it on its own, this recipe delivers rich flavors that taste even better the next day.
How Do You Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers?
Layer Italian sausage, sliced peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and seasonings in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the sausage reaches 160°F and the vegetables are tender. Serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or on toasted sandwich rolls.
The Butcher Shop’s Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh TBS Italian sausage (sweet, hot, or a combination)
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Directions:
1. Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage on all sides for about 2 to 3 minutes per side. You do not need to cook it completely.
2. Layer the Slow Cooker
Add the sliced peppers and onions to the bottom of the slow cooker. Stir in the garlic. Place the browned sausage on top of the vegetables.
3. Make the Sauce
Combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, oregano, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour the mixture over the sausage and vegetables.
4. Slow Cook
Cover and cook on Low for 6 to 7 hours or High for 3 to 4 hours, until the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 160°F.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese. Serve hot on toasted rolls, or over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Butcher’s Tips for Success
- Brown the sausage: We recommend not skipping this step. It helps the sausage develop a deeper flavor and maintain its texture.
- Add more veggies: Sliced mushrooms, zucchini, and diced tomatoes work well with this dish. Simply add them to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Thicken the sauce: Remove the lid during the last 20 to 30 minutes to allow some of the liquid to reduce.
Looking for More Slow Cooker Recipes?
Slow Cooker Country Style Ribs
Slow Cooker Meatballs
Slow Cooker White Chicken Chili
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken sausage?
Absolutely. Chicken Italian sausage creates a lighter version while still delivering excellent flavor.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Cool the sausage and peppers completely before storing them in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Should I slice the sausage before cooking?
We recommend cooking the links whole. Slice them just before serving to help retain their juices.
Put Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers on Your Family’s Table with The Butcher Shop
Slow cooker meals make it easy to put dinner on the table, but they still need quality ingredients to shine. At The Butcher Shop, we make our fresh Italian sausage in-house for a difference you can taste.
All of our meats, seafood, and produce are locally sourced, so you can put quality fresh ingredients on your family’s table. We also carry freshly baked bread, local beers and wines, and 100% natural, all-meat dog food. Stop by today or call ahead to pre-order your ingredients.