Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, easy meal that's packed with flavor? Then look no further! This oven-baked sausage and peppers recipe is the perfect solution for a quick and satisfying dinner. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its best, delivering big on taste without requiring hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a fantastic blend of sweet and savory goodness.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!)
- 1 large green bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced
- 1 large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven heats, slice the peppers and onions. This is a great time to put on some music and get into the cooking mood!
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Sausage Sizzle: Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet (cast iron works perfectly!) over medium-high heat. Brown the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This step adds incredible depth of flavor to the dish.
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Veggie Infusion: Add the onions and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
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Flavor Boost: Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another minute until fragrant. The aroma at this stage is simply divine!
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Sauce it Up: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
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Oven Time: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly. This is a perfect opportunity to relax and let the oven do the work!
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Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the skillet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This hearty and flavorful dish is delicious on its own or served over pasta, rice, or polenta.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sausage and Peppers:
- Sausage Selection: Choose your favorite sausage! Sweet Italian sausage provides a milder flavor, while hot Italian sausage adds a spicy kick.
- Don't Overcrowd: Ensure there's enough space in the skillet for the sausage and vegetables to brown properly. If needed, use two skillets.
- Spice it Up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference. A dash of cayenne pepper can add extra heat.
- Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano and basil on hand, use about 1 tablespoon of each instead of the dried herbs for a more intense flavor.
Variations:
- Add Some Mushrooms: Sliced mushrooms make a delicious addition to this dish. Add them along with the onions and peppers.
- Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking for a cheesy finish.
- Protein Boost: Add some cooked chicken or Italian meatballs for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This sausage and peppers recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend get-together. It’s a delicious and healthy option that everyone will love. Enjoy!