Description
Crock Pot Sausage and Peppers is the ultimate easy, hands-off comfort food. Juicy Italian sausages slowly simmer with sweet bell peppers, onions, garlic, and a tangy tomato sauce, creating a rich and flavorful dish perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or tucked into hoagie rolls. It’s simple, satisfying, and ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd with minimal effort.
Ingredients
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6 Italian sausages (mild or spicy)
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3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
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1 large onion, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes
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1 tbsp tomato paste (optional for thicker sauce)
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1 tsp dried oregano
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½ tsp dried basil
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil (for browning, optional)
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Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Optional: Brown Sausages
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the sausages on all sides (about 5–6 minutes total). This step adds extra flavor but can be skipped. -
Add Ingredients to Crock Pot
Layer bell peppers, onions, and garlic in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the sausages on top. -
Add Sauce & Seasoning
Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste (if using), oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to coat. -
Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until sausages are fully cooked and vegetables are tender. -
Serve
Serve hot with pasta, rice, or toasted rolls. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
To spice it up, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
This dish stores well—refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet after browning sausage and pour the juices into the slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: crock pot sausage, sausage and peppers, slow cooker meals, Italian sausage recipe