Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers: A Flavorful, Easy Weeknight Dinner

Slow cooker sausage and peppers is the ultimate fuss-free, flavorful dinner for any night of the week. With just a handful of ingredients and your trusty crockpot, you can whip up a savory, hearty dish that feels like comfort food with a dash of Italian-inspired flair. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, piling it onto rolls, or keeping things low carb with a veggie base, this recipe is all about ease and versatility.

I first fell in love with this recipe when I needed a crowd-pleaser for a family get-together. I was juggling a busy day, and the simplicity of tossing everything into my slow cooker felt like a lifesaver. When I opened that lid to the rich aroma of marinara, peppers, and sausage, I knew I’d found a keeper. And let me tell you, the results were every bit as satisfying for the taste buds as they were low-effort for me in the kitchen. Let’s dive in!

How to Make Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

This recipe could not get easier. With just four main ingredients and a little prep, you’ll let your slow cooker do all the heavy lifting. Below, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make easy crock pot sausage and peppers that are bursting with flavor!

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this savory, satisfying dish. Feel free to mix and match the bell pepper colors for a vibrant presentation or use any marinara sauce you love.

• 2 pounds turkey sausage: Use your favorite Italian turkey sausage, mild or spicy.
• 3 medium bell peppers: Thinly sliced. I love using a colorful mix of red, orange, and yellow, but green works well too.
• 2 medium yellow onions: Thinly sliced for that sweet, caramelized flavor.
• 1 (25-ounce) jar marinara sauce: Any jarred marinara will do. Opt for low-sodium if you want more control over the salt level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to transform these simple ingredients into the best Italian sausage and peppers slow cooker dish you’ve ever tasted:

1. Layer the ingredients: Start by adding the sausages, sliced bell peppers, onions, and marinara sauce into your slow cooker. Give everything a quick stir to combine, ensuring the sauce coats the veggies and sausage evenly.
2. Set to cook: Cover the slow cooker with the lid. Cook the mixture on high for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours. Avoid opening the lid during this time—trust me, it’s tempting, but your slow cooker needs that consistent heat to work its magic.
3. Slice the sausage: Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the sausages (use tongs) and slice them into 1-inch pieces. Add them back to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the saucy peppers and onions.
4. Season if needed: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt or a little extra marinara, if desired.

Jake’s Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

To make this low carb sausage and peppers shine, here are my best tips based on plenty of kitchen experiments:

• Give it a golden touch: If you have an extra 5 minutes, brown the sausages in a skillet before adding them to your slow cooker. This adds a delicious depth of flavor.
• Mix up the base: Not a fan of pasta or bread? Serve this dish over cooked spaghetti squash or cauliflower rice for a healthy, low-carb twist.
• Shop smart: Choose a marinara sauce you already love since it’s a big flavor player in this recipe. Garlic-heavy sauces work especially well here.
• Make cleanup easy: Use a slow cooker liner to save yourself from scrubbing sticky marinara later. It’s a game-changer for busy home cooks!

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

Have a few questions before you dive into making this recipe? I’ve got you covered here!

Can I use frozen sausages?

Yes! Just add frozen sausages directly to the slow cooker. Keep in mind the cook time may need 30-60 extra minutes, especially if you’re cooking on low.

How do I store leftovers?

Let any leftovers cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Use an 8-quart slow cooker to ensure there’s enough room for the extra ingredients. Cooking times should stay about the same.

What’s the best way to serve this dish?

You can’t go wrong here! Serve it on hoagie rolls, over pasta, or even spooned onto garlic bread for a hearty meal. For lighter options, try spaghetti squash or zoodles.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, this dish freezes beautifully! Store the cooled sausage and peppers (with sauce) in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Let’s Get Cooking!

I can’t wait for you to try this slow cooker sausage and peppers recipe. It’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry table with minimal effort. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich, over pasta, or straight out of the slow cooker, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment below or tag @KitchenShortcuts on social media so I can see your creations. And if you’re looking for more slow cooker inspiration, be sure to check out my easy recipes for hearty meals made simple. Happy cooking!