Imagine sizzling sausages with perfectly caramelized peppers and onions that make your kitchen smell like an authentic Italian trattoria. This Sweet Italian Hot Sausage recipe is your ticket to a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone begging for seconds. Whether you're a busy home cook or a weekend culinary adventurer, this recipe promises restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Remove the sweet Italian sausage from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Slice the bell pepper and onion into thin, uniform strips, approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat and add the olive oil, allowing it to shimmer but not smoke.
- Carefully place the sausage links into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown exterior.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the sliced bell peppers and onions to the skillet around the sausages.
- Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the sausages and vegetables, gently tossing to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Continue cooking for an additional 10-12 minutes, turning the sausages occasionally to ensure they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove the skillet from heat and let the sausages rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Serve hot, optionally on a hoagie roll or with roasted potatoes and a side salad.
Tips
- Temperature Matters: Always let your sausages sit at room temperature before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
- Pan Selection: Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan for the best sear and heat control.
- Don't Overcrowd: Give your sausages space in the pan to brown properly and develop a delicious golden crust.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure sausages reach 160°F (71°C) for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: Allow sausages to rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking to retain their juicy interior.
- Flavor Boost: Experiment with adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra flavor dimension.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve on a toasted hoagie roll, with roasted potatoes, or alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 80mg
