Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers

There's nothing better than a hearty, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself. This Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers recipe is a true weeknight lifesaver! Juicy Italian sausage is simmered with sweet bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes until tender and full of flavor. It's naturally gluten-free, family-friendly, and perfect for everything from a quick weeknight dinner to a game day spread.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: The slow cooker does all the work!
• Gluten-Free Comfort Food: Serve with gluten-free rolls, rice, or pasta.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Tastes even better the next day.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for feeding a family or entertaining.

Ingredients You'll Need:

• 2 lbs Italian sausage links (mild, hot, or a mix)
• 3 large bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced into strips
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 jar (28 oz) of your favorite marinara sauce
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Sausage (Optional)

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown sausages for 2-3 minutes per side for extra flavor. (You can skip this step if pressed for time.)

2. Layer the Ingredients

Place sliced peppers and onions in the bottom of your slow cooker. Top with sausages, garlic, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

3. Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until sausages are cooked through and vegetables are tender.

4. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Style: Serve on toasted gluten-free hoagie rolls for the ultimate sausage and peppers sandwich.
• Low-Carb Option: Enjoy over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Family Dinner: Pair with gluten-free pasta or rice for a hearty meal.
• Game Day Platter: Keep sausages whole with peppers on the side for easy serving.

This meal satisfies even the pickiest eaters-I know because I have 4 of them!

Whether you need to feed a crowd or just looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this is a no-fail recipe you'll want to make over and over!

If you've tried this recipe, be sure to tag me on Instagram @thrivingglutenfree so I can see how it turned out.

Let's Eat!