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️ Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers - sausage and peppers - Sausage and peppers: cook this ultimate comfort food in your crock pot. Tender Italian sausage, sweet pe

Slow Cooker Sausage & Peppers

Sausage and peppers: cook this ultimate comfort food in your crock pot. Tender Italian sausage, sweet peppers, and rich marinara for a fuss-free meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3-1 /2 - 4 lbs sweet Italian sausage links
  • 3 small or 2 large bell peppers (any color, seeded then thinly sliced)
  • 1 large yellow onion (cut in half then thinly sliced)
  • salt and pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic (pressed or minced)
  • pinch red chili pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 , 24-26oz jars high-quality spaghetti or marinara sauce
  • Sub or hoagie rolls
  • Thinly sliced provolone or mozzarella cheese

Method
 

  1. Sear the sausages until golden brown on all four sides, then transfer to a 6-quart crock pot.
  2. Sauté the peppers and onions with salt and pepper for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and chili flakes, then sauté for one more minute. Scrape into the crock pot with the sausages.
  3. Pour the spaghetti/marinara sauce into the crock pot. Stir to combine, then cook on LOW for 5-6 hours until sausages are extremely tender. Skim off any fat.
  4. Butter and toast rolls under the broiler. Place cooked sausage and peppers with sauce on top, add cheese, and broil until melted. Serve immediately.

Notes

- For best results, use a high-quality sweet Italian sausage. The initial sear is crucial for developing deep flavor before slow cooking. - Don't skip browning the sausages! This step creates a rich fond at the bottom of the pan, adding immense depth to your marinara sauce. - To ensure the sausages are safe to eat, ensure they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition information is an estimate, calculated automatically. Values vary with brands, substitutions and portion sizes.