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There’s nothing like coming home to a warm, hearty dish that’s been simmering all day — and these Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers hit all the right notes. With juicy Italian sausage, tender sweet peppers, caramelized onions, and a cozy marinara sauce, this recipe delivers bold Italian flavor with almost no hands-on effort. Just toss everything in your Crockpot and let it do the magic!
🛒 Ingredients for Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
- 6 Italian sausage links: Sweet, mild, or hot; pork, chicken, or turkey work well.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing and extra flavor.
- 3 bell peppers: Sliced; use a mix for color and sweetness.
- 1 large onion: Sliced into half-moons; yellow or white.
- 3 cloves garlic: Minced or use jarred garlic for ease.
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A classic blend of herbs.
- 2 cups marinara sauce: Store-bought or homemade.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
🍳 Instructions: How to Make Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
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- Step 1: Brown the Sausages (Optional)
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high. Sear sausages for 2–3 minutes per side until browned. They don’t need to be fully cooked.
- Step 2: Layer the Vegetables
- In the slow cooker, add sliced peppers, onions, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Toss gently to combine.
- Step 3: Add Marinara and Sausages
- Pour marinara sauce evenly over the vegetables. Nestle in the sausages.
- Step 4: Slow Cook
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until sausages are cooked and vegetables tender.
- Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve hot with extra sauce and vegetables. Garnish with herbs or cheese if desired.
🔁 Tips, Variations & FAQs
- No sauce? Skip marinara and add 1/4 cup broth or white wine.
- With potatoes: Add 2–3 diced potatoes for a heartier dish.
- Cheesy topping: Add mozzarella or provolone during the last 10 minutes to melt.
- Crunchy peppers: Add bell peppers in the last hour of cooking.
- Spicy version: Use hot sausage or red chili flakes.
- Skip the sear? Yes, but browning enhances flavor.
🍽 How to Serve Italian Sausage and Peppers
- On hoagie rolls or toasted baguettes: A hearty sandwich option.
- Over pasta: Try spaghetti or penne.
- With mashed potatoes: For a comfort food twist.
- With rice or cauliflower rice: Great for low-carb meals.
- As a bowl: Serve with slaw, polenta, or roasted veggies.
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🧊 Storage and Meal Prep Tips
- Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in containers or bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Use microwave, skillet, or slow cooker on low to reheat.
- Meal prep: Portion with pasta or rice into containers for grab-and-go meals.
✅ Final Thoughts
This slow cooker sausage and peppers recipe is the ultimate dump-and-go dinner with big rewards. It’s one of those mild Italian sausage slow cooker recipes you’ll return to over and over again — easy enough for weeknights, yet flavorful enough for guests. With flexible ingredients and endless serving options, this dish checks all the boxes.
Try it next time you’re craving something warm, filling, and full of Italian flair — without spending hours in the kitchen!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use chicken sausage instead of pork?
- Yes, chicken sausage works well and is a leaner option.
- → Can I skip browning the sausage?
- Yes, but browning adds flavor and helps seal in the juices.
- → Can I add cheese to this recipe?
- Absolutely, sprinkle mozzarella on top during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- → What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the microwave, skillet, or back in the slow cooker until warmed through.
- → Can I freeze this dish?
- Yes, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.