Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers in Tomato Sauce

This Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers in Tomato Sauce is a hearty, flavorful dish with juicy sausages, vibrant bell peppers, and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners, it’s easy, gluten-free optional, and ideal for sandwiches or pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers in Tomato Sauce is the ultimate comfort food, delivering bold Italian flavors with minimal effort. Juicy sausages and colorful bell peppers simmer in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, creating a versatile dish that’s perfect for sandwiches, pasta, or standalone meals. The slow cooker makes it a breeze—just toss in the ingredients and let it cook low and slow, filling your home with a mouthwatering aroma. Ideal for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep, this dish is hearty, customizable, and gluten-free optional. Its robust flavors deepen over time, making leftovers a delicious bonus. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or craving a cozy meal, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Brown Sausages First: Enhances flavor and texture; don’t skip this step.
• Slice Peppers Evenly: Ensures uniform cooking and consistent texture.
• Use Good Tomatoes: Crushed San Marzano for rich, authentic flavor.
• Deglaze Pan: Scrape skillet bits into slow cooker for extra depth.
• Check Sauce Thickness: Cook uncovered last 30 minutes if too watery.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust salt, oregano, or red pepper for balance.
• Layer Ingredients: Place peppers at bottom for even cooking in sauce.
• Low Heat Preferred: Prevents overcooking and keeps sausages tender.

Yield: 6 Servings

Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers in Tomato Sauce

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Hearty slow cooker sausage and peppers in rich tomato sauce.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 4 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 4 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 lb Italian sausages (mild or spicy)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 large bell peppers (red and yellow), sliced
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prep Veggies: Slice bell peppers and onion thinly; mince garlic for even flavor distribution.

Brown Sausages: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet; brown sausages 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally.

Deglaze Skillet: Add ¼ cup water to skillet; scrape browned bits and reserve liquid.

Layer Slow Cooker: Place peppers and onion in a 4-quart slow cooker; top with sausages.

Add Tomatoes: Pour crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and deglazing liquid into slow cooker.

Season: Add garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper; stir gently to combine.

Cook Low: Cover and cook on LOW for 4 hours until sausages are tender and flavors meld.

Check Sauce: If too thin, cook uncovered for 20-30 minutes to thicken.

Rest: Let stew rest 10 minutes off heat to deepen flavors.

Serve: Spoon over pasta, in hoagie rolls, or with crusty bread for a hearty meal.

Notes

• Use a 4-quart slow cooker for even cooking and optimal sauce consistency.
• Browning sausages adds depth; skip for faster prep if needed.
• Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches or pasta dishes.
• Serve with grated Parmesan or fresh basil for extra flair.

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 289Total Fat 21gSaturated Fat 8gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 43mgSodium 600mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 16g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Italian Sausages (1 lb): Mild or spicy; pork, turkey, or chicken for preference.
• Bell Peppers (2 large): Red and yellow for sweetness; green for sharper flavor.
• Crushed Tomatoes (28 oz can): San Marzano for rich taste; diced as substitute.
• Onion (1 medium, sliced): Yellow for sweetness; red for bolder flavor.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Fresh for robust aroma; powder (1 tsp) as backup.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Extra virgin for sautéing; enhances flavor depth.
• Oregano (1 tsp, dried): Earthy herb; fresh (1 tbsp) or basil as alternative.
• Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional): Adds subtle heat; adjust to taste.
• Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Intensifies tomato flavor; optional for richer sauce.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Enhances flavors; season after cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Ensure sausages and broth are GF; serve with GF rolls.
• Vegetarian: Swap sausages for plant-based versions or mushrooms.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or use spicy sausages.
• Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle with Parmesan or mozzarella before serving.
• Herb Swap: Use basil, thyme, or Italian seasoning instead of oregano.
• Meat Swap: Try chicken thighs or meatballs for variety.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight container up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze up to 3 months; thaw overnight in fridge.
• Reheating: Warm on stove with splash of water; microwave gently.

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