Cheesy Sausage And Peppers: The Ultimate Cheesy Sausage And Peppers Recipe
Introduction to Cheesy Sausage And Peppers
Cheesy Sausage and Peppers is a delightful dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of Italian sausage with the sweetness of bell peppers, all enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This one-pan meal is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The combination of textures and flavors creates a comforting experience that warms you from the inside out.
A Personal Story Behind My Cheesy Sausage And Peppers Journey
Growing up, my family often gathered around the dinner table for hearty meals. One of my mother’s signature dishes was her take on Cheesy Sausage and Peppers. I remember the aroma wafting through our home as she cooked, bringing everyone together. It’s a dish that has stayed with me through the years, reminding me of love, warmth, and togetherness. Now, I love sharing this recipe with my own family, continuing the tradition and creating new memories.
What Makes This Cheesy Sausage And Peppers Recipe Special?
This Cheesy Sausage and Peppers recipe stands out due to its creamy sauce and the balance of flavors from the Italian sausage and fresh vegetables. The use of both Parmesan and mozzarella cheese results in a rich and gooey texture that is simply irresistible. Additionally, the versatility of this dish allows you to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level to your preference. It’s a dish that caters to many tastes while delivering comfort in every bite.
The Full Cheesy Sausage And Peppers Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds Italian Sausage, sliced
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, sliced
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, sliced
- 1/2 Medium Onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp Beef Broth
- 1 1/2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In an ovenproof skillet, cook the sliced Italian sausage over medium-high heat on the stove until fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium, then add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they start to become tender. Remove and set aside.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
- Deglaze the skillet by adding the beef broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. This adds flavor to your dish.
- Whisk in the heavy whipping cream, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently until well combined.
- Continue to sauté the mixture until the sauce thickens, which should take around 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
- Return the cooked sausage and vegetables to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cheesy Sausage And Peppers
This dish is delicious served over a bed of pasta or rice, which helps soak up that creamy sauce. You can also serve it alongside a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast. For variations, consider adding other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or even spice it up with some red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat. This recipe is a great base for experimentation, allowing you to make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Sausage And Peppers
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great alternative, offering a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the dish before baking. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Enjoy this deliciously cheesy sausage skillet bake straight from your oven!
Cheesy Sausage And Peppers
Equipment
- Ovenproof skillet For cooking and baking the dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds Italian Sausage, sliced
- 1 whole Red Bell Pepper, sliced
- 1 whole Green Bell Pepper, sliced
- 0.5 medium Onion, sliced
- 2 tbsp Beef Broth
- 1.5 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
- 2 tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
- 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In an ovenproof skillet, cook the sliced Italian sausage over medium-high heat on the stove until fully cooked. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to medium, then add the sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they start to become tender. Remove and set aside.
- Drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
- Deglaze the skillet by adding the beef broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom. This adds flavor to your dish.
- Whisk in the heavy whipping cream, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently until well combined.
- Continue to sauté the mixture until the sauce thickens, which should take around 5 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well incorporated into the sauce.
- Return the cooked sausage and vegetables to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese on top and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.