Few dishes capture the heart of Italian-American cooking like the savory, comforting combination of Italian sausages, peppers, and onions. This iconic meal, rooted in simplicity and bold flavors, evokes the warmth of family dinners and gatherings with friends and family. Whether served as a hearty sandwich, atop a plate of pasta, or alongside crusty bread, it’s a dish that invites everyone to the table.

I am particularly fond of this dish as it was one of the dishes my late father and I would cook together, and arguably one of our favorites. He loved cooking almost as much as my mother, but since my mother was the primary chef for the family growing up, he’d have to fight for his time in the kitchen! And I always loved cooking along side with him. He also had a particular fondness for going grocery shopping. A task not always appreciated by men. But then again, we’re talking about an Italian man here!

The stars of the dish are, undoubtedly, are the sausages. Whether you prefer sweet, mild, or spicy varieties, the robust, seasoned sausage meat delivers a satisfying, juicy bite. Partnered with vibrant bell peppers—green, red, yellow, or orange—and sweet, caramelized onions, this trio creates a colorful, aromatic medley that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

What makes this recipe particularly appealing is its versatility and ease. A single skillet transforms simple ingredients into a meal that feels celebratory, whether prepared for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s a dish that transcends its humble origins, adapting to personal tastes and regional variations. Add tomatoes for a saucier version, or toss it with rigatoni for a complete one-pot wonder.

As the sausages sizzle and the peppers soften, their aromas fill the kitchen, invoking memories of bustling Italian markets and the joy of shared meals. It’s more than food—it’s an experience steeped in tradition, flavor, and a sense of family cooking. With every bite, you’re transported to the heart of Italy, savoring the simple pleasures of life. Indulge in this classic and bring a taste of Italy to your home, one delicious bite at a time.

This recipe and lovely cover image come from my third cookbook 30-Minute Italian Cookbook! Grab your copy here for many more recipes that take under 30 minutes to prepare!

Italian Sausages, Peppers and Onions
​Serves 4 – 6 

Ingredients 

4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 
3 sweet bell peppers, seeded, thinly sliced
2 small yellow or white onions, diced
1 ripe tomato, chopped 
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Sea salt to taste 
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
2 teaspoons dry Italian herbs 
6 Italian sausages (sweet or hot), diced 

Instructions

1. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add the oil and heat for 1 minute. Add the peppers, onions, tomato, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, add the dry herbs and cook for 5 minutes, until peppers are slightly softened and onion is a bit translucent. If oil is drying up too quickly, reduce the heat.
2. Add the sausages to the pan and stir to combine. Cook sausages and peppers together for 15 minutes, stirring during the process. If the mixture looks dry, check the heat and adjust accordingly. Add a few tablespoons of olive oil if needed. You can also add a few tablespoons of water.  
3. Remove from the heat, add to serving platter, and serve hot or at room temperature.