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Creamy Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet

creamy italian sausage and peppers skillet - featured image

A quick and easy comfort meal featuring Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb sweet or spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 3 medium bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced into strips
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream (180 ml)
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • A handful fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients (10 minutes): Slice the bell peppers into thin strips, peel and thinly slice the onion, and mince the garlic. Remove the casings from the Italian sausage and break it into bite-sized chunks.
  2. Cook the Sausage (8-10 minutes): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage chunks and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 8 to 10 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Veggies (5-7 minutes): Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Toss in the sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté until the peppers are tender and onions are translucent, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic during the last minute.
  4. Combine and Season (2 minutes): Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the veggies. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to mix the flavors.
  5. Add Cream and Cheese (3-4 minutes): Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently, scraping the bottom of the pan. Let the cream simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
  6. Final Touches (1 minute): Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the top.
  7. Serve Immediately: Enjoy hot, straight from the skillet. Pair with crusty bread or creamy polenta if desired.

Notes

If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. For a smokier flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika. Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best results to avoid grainy sauce. Avoid overheating once cream is added to prevent curdling.

Nutrition

Keywords: Italian sausage, peppers, creamy sauce, skillet meal, comfort food, quick dinner, easy recipe