Slow Cooker Sausage is a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Combining savory sausages, tender vegetables, and a rich sauce, this meal requires minimal prep work and delivers big flavor. Serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta for a complete and hearty meal that will please the whole family.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For Slow Cooker Sausage
- 1 1/2 pounds Italian sausage (mild or hot, your preference)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the Italian sausages in the slow cooker. You can leave them whole or slice them into pieces, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Sauce
- Add the chopped onion, sliced bell peppers, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth.
- Sprinkle the dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the ingredients. Stir gently to combine.
Step 3: Cook the Sausage
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sausages are fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Serve
- Once cooked, serve the sausage mixture over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Sausage Type: You can use any type of sausage you like, such as Italian, bratwurst, or even chicken sausage. Adjust the seasonings to complement the type of sausage you choose.
- Peppers: Bell peppers add sweetness and color to the dish. Use a variety of colors for the best presentation.
- Thickness: If the sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by cooking uncovered on high for the last 30 minutes or by adding a cornstarch slurry.
Variations
- Spicy Sausage and Peppers: Use hot Italian sausage and add 1/2 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Creamy Sausage: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream at the end of cooking for a creamy version of this dish.
- Vegetable Addition: Add sliced mushrooms or diced zucchini for extra vegetables and flavor.
- Cheesy Sausage: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a cheesy version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Precooked Sausage?
Yes, you can use precooked sausage for this recipe. Just reduce the cooking time by an hour or so, as the sausage only needs to be heated through.
2. How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
3. Can I Freeze Slow Cooker Sausage?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What Can I Serve with Slow Cooker Sausage?
This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or even crusty bread. A simple side salad or steamed vegetables also makes a great addition.
Slow Cooker Sausage is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of year. With tender sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, this meal is sure to become a family favorite. Just let your slow cooker do all the work, and enjoy a comforting and delicious dinner with minimal effort.
Happy cooking!
