Welcome to your new go-to recipe for a delicious, family-friendly meal: Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers! This incredibly flavorful dish combines perfectly seasoned Italian sausage with tender bell peppers and onions, all simmered in a rich, robust tomato sauce. Crafted effortlessly in your pressure cooker, this recipe promises a delightful dinner that’s bursting with classic Italian-American taste, ready to be enjoyed over creamy mashed potatoes, tucked into crusty submarine rolls, or simply savored on its own for a lighter option.
Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers Recipe
This Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers recipe isn’t just another meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table. Here’s what makes it an instant family favorite:
- Unmatched Comfort Food Experience: Imagine succulent Italian sausages, perfectly browned, nestled among sweet, sautéed bell peppers and caramelized onions, all swimming in a rich, savory tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs. This dish truly embodies the essence of comfort food, making it a guaranteed hit with both adults and picky eaters alike.
- Incredibly Quick & Easy: Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, this meal comes together in less than 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknights when you crave a homemade, hearty dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. The pressure cooker not only speeds up cooking but also ensures tender results and minimal cleanup.
- Versatile Serving Options: Whether you prefer it as a satisfying sandwich filling, spooned over fluffy mashed potatoes, polenta, or even pasta, this dish offers incredible flexibility. It’s equally delicious served simply by itself for a low-carb alternative.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of high-quality Italian sausage, fresh vegetables, robust crushed tomatoes, and classic Italian herbs creates a depth of flavor that tastes like it simmered all day. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and tangy notes.
The Essential Ingredients for Perfect Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
Crafting this fantastic dish requires a handful of simple yet potent ingredients. Quality matters here, especially for the stars of the show!
- Sweet Italian Sausage: We recommend using six 4-ounce links of sweet Italian sausage. The sweetness balances the tang of the tomatoes and the slight bitterness of some bell peppers. You can also opt for hot Italian sausage if you prefer a spicier kick, or even a combination of both for a balanced heat. Good quality sausage will render delicious fat for sautéing and enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Olive Oil: Essential for browning the sausage and sautéing the vegetables. A good extra virgin olive oil adds a subtle fruity note.
- Yellow Onion: One large yellow onion, thinly sliced, will caramelize beautifully and provide a foundational sweetness and aroma to the sauce.
- Garlic: Four cloves of minced garlic are crucial for that authentic Italian flavor. Don’t skimp on the garlic – it adds depth and warmth.
- Marsala or Red Wine (Optional but Recommended): A quarter cup of Marsala or dry red wine (like a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon) is used for deglazing the pot. This step is a game-changer, adding layers of complex flavor and helping to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom, preventing a burn notice. If you prefer to omit alcohol, a splash of chicken or vegetable broth works well too.
- Bell Peppers: Three large bell peppers, sliced. You can use any color you like! Green peppers offer a slightly more bitter, sharper flavor, while red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter and milder. A mix of colors creates a visually appealing and balanced dish.
- Dried Basil and Oregano: One teaspoon each of these classic Italian herbs provides the signature herbaceous notes that tie all the flavors together. Fresh herbs can also be used, but dried tend to hold up better under pressure cooking.
- Crushed Tomatoes: One 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes forms the rich, flavorful base of our sauce. Choose a good quality brand for the best results. Diced tomatoes can be used for a chunkier sauce.
- Salt: One teaspoon of salt enhances all the other flavors. Adjust to taste, especially if your sausage is already salty.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
Making this incredible dish is straightforward with the Instant Pot. Follow these simple steps for a truly delicious result:
- Brown the Sausage: Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Once the display reads “Hot,” add two tablespoons of olive oil. Carefully place the Italian sausage links into the pot. Cook them until they are nicely browned on all sides, turning occasionally. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Browning is crucial for developing deep, rich flavor. Once browned, remove the sausages from the pot and set them aside on a plate.
- Sauté Aromatics and Deglaze: Add the sliced yellow onion to the pot, utilizing the rendered sausage fat and remaining olive oil. Sauté the onions, stirring frequently, until they begin to soften and become translucent, which typically takes about 4 minutes. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in a quarter cup of Marsala or red wine (if using). Bring the wine to a boil, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze and release any browned bits. Continue to cook for about 1 minute, or until the liquid has reduced by half. This step adds incredible depth of flavor and helps prevent a “burn” error.
- Layer and Pressure Cook: Add the sliced bell peppers to the pot and give them a quick stir with the onion mixture. Arrange the browned sausages on top of the onion and pepper mixture. Pour in the entire can of crushed tomatoes, followed by the dried basil, dried oregano, and salt. Do NOT stir at this point; let the tomatoes and spices sit on top to prevent a burn notice. Secure the Instant Pot lid, making sure the sealing valve is in the “Sealing” position. Set the Instant Pot to ‘Manual High Pressure’ (or ‘Pressure Cook’ on newer models) for 5 minutes.
- Quick Release and Serve: Once the cooking cycle is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure by turning the valve to the “Venting” position. Stand clear of the steam. Once all the pressure has been released and the float valve drops, open the lid. Gently stir the sausage and peppers. Remove the sausages to a cutting board and slice each link into 6-7 pieces. Return the sliced sausage to the pot and mix with the sauce and vegetables. Serve your Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers hot over your favorite mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or on toasted Italian sandwich rolls for an authentic experience.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers Perfection
Unlock the full potential of this recipe with these expert tips:
- For Lower Carb Options: If you’re watching your carbohydrate intake, this dish is wonderfully adaptable. Enjoy the sausage and peppers by themselves as a protein and veggie-packed meal. Alternatively, serve them over mashed cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or within low-carb bread or lettuce wraps. These alternatives allow you to savor all the delicious flavors without the extra carbs.
- Customizing Bell Peppers: Feel free to use any combination of bell peppers! Green bell peppers are the least ripe and offer a slightly sharp, grassy flavor. Red bell peppers are fully ripe, very sweet, and mild. Yellow and orange bell peppers fall somewhere in the middle, offering a pleasant sweetness with a hint of tang. Experiment with different colors to find your preferred flavor balance and add vibrant visual appeal to your dish.
- Choosing Your Sausage: While sweet Italian sausage is traditional, feel free to use hot Italian sausage for a spicier kick, or a mix of both. You can also use chicken or turkey Italian sausage for a leaner option, though cooking times might vary slightly. Ensure your sausage is fresh and high quality for the best flavor.
- Deglazing is Key: Don’t skip the step of deglazing with wine (or broth). Those browned bits at the bottom of the pot are called “fond,” and they are packed with flavor. Scraping them up ensures they become part of your delicious sauce and prevents the dreaded Instant Pot “burn” warning.
- Do Not Stir Tomatoes: When adding the crushed tomatoes and spices, resist the urge to stir them into the other ingredients immediately before pressure cooking. Layering them on top helps prevent a “burn” error message, as thicker liquids tend to stick to the bottom of the pot.
- Adjusting Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thin after cooking, you can thicken it by selecting ‘Sauté’ mode again and simmering uncovered until it reaches your desired consistency. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or broth.
- Make Ahead and Freeze: This dish is fantastic for meal prep! It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
The versatility of Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers means there are countless ways to enjoy this incredible dish. Beyond the classic mashed potatoes and Italian sandwich rolls, consider these delightful options:
- Over Pasta: Serve it over your favorite pasta shape like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. The rich tomato sauce clings beautifully to the pasta.
- With Rice: A bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even creamy risotto makes an excellent accompaniment, soaking up all the savory juices.
- Polenta Perfection: Creamy polenta is a traditional Italian pairing that complements the hearty sausage and peppers wonderfully.
- Crusty Bread for Dipping: Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh loaf of crusty Italian bread. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of that amazing sauce.
- Low-Carb Alternatives: As mentioned, mashed cauliflower, zucchini noodles (zoodles), or spaghetti squash are fantastic for keeping it low-carb.
- Egg Noodles: For a different texture, serve over wide egg noodles.
- Add Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of creamy ricotta before serving can elevate the dish even further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen Italian sausage in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can! If using frozen sausage links, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Brown them as best you can on ‘Sauté’ mode (they won’t brown as thoroughly), then increase the pressure cooking time to 8-10 minutes instead of 5 minutes to ensure they are cooked through. Always check the internal temperature of the sausage to ensure it’s safe to eat.
What if I don’t have Marsala or red wine?
No problem! You can substitute the wine with an equal amount of chicken broth, beef broth, or even water. The wine adds a layer of depth, but the dish will still be incredibly flavorful without it.
Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?
Absolutely! The stovetop version will take a bit longer but is just as delicious. Brown the sausages in a large pot or Dutch oven, then remove. Sauté the onions and garlic, deglaze with wine (or broth), then add peppers, tomatoes, and spices. Return the sausages to the pot, bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for 30-40 minutes, or until the sausages are cooked through and the peppers are tender. You may need to add a splash of water or broth if the sauce reduces too much.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.
Can I add other vegetables?
Certainly! Feel free to add other vegetables like sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or even a handful of spinach at the end of the cooking process (stirred in after quick release) for added nutrients and flavor. Adjust cooking times if adding denser vegetables that require more cooking.
More Delicious Instant Pot Recipes
- Instant Pot Oatmeal
- Instant Pot Cauliflower
- 45 Incredible Vegan Instant Pot Recipes
- Instant Pot Carrots
- Instant Pot Basmati Rice
- 50 Low Carb Instant Pot Recipes
- Instant Pot Sushi Rice
- Instant Pot Country Style Ribs
Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
5 minutes
20 minutes
25 minutes
6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 (4-ounce) links sweet Italian sausage
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion sliced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- ¼ cup marsala wine or red wine, optional
- 3 bell peppers sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon salt
Equipment
- Instant Pot or pressure cooker
Instructions
- Set Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add olive oil. Once heated, add sausages. Cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove sausages and set aside.
- Add sliced onions to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, until slightly soft, about 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in wine (if using) and bring to a boil, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook for about 1 minute or until reduced by half. Add sliced bell peppers and stir, then place the browned sausages over the onion-pepper mixture. Pour in crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and oregano on top (do not stir).
- Secure the lid with the valve in the sealed position and cook at manual high pressure for 5 minutes. Carefully perform a quick release of pressure. Stir gently, then remove sausages to a plate and cut into 6-7 pieces per link. Return sliced sausage to the pot and mix. Serve hot over mashed potatoes or on Italian sandwich rolls.
Notes
- Lower carbs: Serve sausage and peppers plain, on low carb bread, or over mashed cauliflower.
- Bell peppers: You can use your favorite color of bell peppers with this recipe or a combination of several different kinds for varied flavor and vibrant color.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 517kcal
|
Protein: 19g
|
Fat: 40g
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Saturated Fat: 13g
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Total Carbs: 18g
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Fiber: 4g
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Sugar: 10g
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Net Carbs: 14g
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Vitamin C: 92mg
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Cholesterol: 85mg
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Sodium: 1386mg
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Potassium: 841mg
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Calcium: 86mg
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Iron: 4mg
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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