This dish is a total winner! Juicy sausages bake alongside colorful peppers and sweet onions, making it not only tasty but also super easy to prepare.
Honestly, the smell of this meal cooking is almost as good as eating it! I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all those delicious juices. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausages: You can choose either mild or spicy sausages depending on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausages work well too, and they still provide great flavor.
Bell Peppers: While I love using the classic red, yellow, and green bell peppers for their sweetness, you can swap in any color you have on hand or even try other varieties like poblano or banana peppers for a twist.
Onion: Yellow onions are ideal for their balance of sweetness and sharpness. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use sweet onions like Vidalia. Red onions add a beautiful color and slightly different flavor too!
Olive Oil: Olive oil gives a lovely richness to the dish, but feel free to use another cooking oil like canola or avocado oil if that’s what you have. Just avoid oils with strong flavors that may compete with the herbs.
Seasonings: The oregano and garlic powder elevate the taste, but you can also play around with dried thyme or Italian seasoning for a different herb profile. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can add a nice touch at serving!
How Do I Make Sure My Sausages Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking sausages can be tricky, but a few simple steps can ensure they’re just right! The key is to check them at the halfway point while baking. Flipping them helps them cook evenly, and you can also cut one open to check if they’re cooked through.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 160°F (70°C) for pork sausage or 165°F (74°C) for poultry sausages.
- If you prefer a crispy casing, you can broil the dish for a few minutes at the end to crisp up the sausages and veggies. Just watch them closely so they don’t burn!
Easy Baked Sausage with Peppers and Onions
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy, according to preference)
- 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced into strips
- 1 large onion, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This meal comes together quickly! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep time and then 25 to 30 minutes for baking. Altogether, set aside about 40 minutes to prepare and cook your delicious dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps the sausages brown nicely while cooking the peppers and onions perfectly tender.
2. Mix the Vegetables:
In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced bell peppers and onions with the olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Mix until everything is well-coated with the oil and seasonings.
3. Spread the Veggies:
Now, spread the seasoned peppers and onions evenly in a single layer on a large baking sheet or roasting pan. Make sure they are not crowded to ensure even cooking.
4. Add the Sausages:
Place the Italian sausages right on top of the vegetable layer. This allows the juices from the sausages to drip onto the veggies as they cook, enhancing the flavors!
5. Bake Away:
Pop the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, flipping the sausages halfway through cooking. Look for those sausages to turn a nice golden brown and check that they are cooked through (160°F/70°C for pork, 165°F/74°C for poultry).
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once cooked, remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness! Enjoy your easy and flavorful meal that goes wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or pasta!
FAQ for Easy Baked Sausage with Peppers and Onions
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute Italian sausages with turkey, chicken, or even vegan sausages for a lighter or plant-based version. Just ensure to adjust cooking times based on the type of sausage you choose.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, try using spicy Italian sausages or add more red pepper flakes to the vegetable mix. You can also toss in some sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce before serving for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can slice the vegetables and season them with oil and spices a day ahead. Just store them in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to cook, simply add the sausages and bake per the instructions!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through. This dish makes for a delicious lunch the next day!
