Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers

If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re in the right place! This Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers recipe is a delightful combination of savory sausage, colorful bell peppers, and zesty Italian seasoning. It’s one of those meals that can effortlessly transition from busy weeknight dinners to casual family gatherings. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

The best part? You can customize this dish based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences. Whether you’re serving it over rice, tossing it into a salad, or loading it into a bun, this meal is sure to become a beloved favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super simple preparation: With just a few steps and minimal cleanup, you can whip up this delicious meal in no time.
• Family-friendly flavors: The savory sausage paired with sweet bell peppers makes for a dish everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy it as is, or serve it over grains or greens for an easy and satisfying meal.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a bigger batch for leftovers, perfect for lunch the next day!
• Packed with nutrients: Loaded with veggies and protein, this dish is both hearty and healthy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe features simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. You might already have some of them in your kitchen!

For the Main Dish

• 12-16 ounces pre-cooked sausage (sliced into rounds; I used a mix of spicy andouille and Italian)
• 2 red bell peppers (sliced)
• 2 green bell peppers (sliced)
• 1 medium yellow onion (sliced)

For Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with different ingredients.

• Swap the protein: Try using chicken sausage or plant-based sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in zucchini, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added freshness.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
• Herb twist: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley sprinkled on top before serving can elevate the flavor even more.

How to Make Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Slice and dice all of the sausage and peppers. If you’re not sure how to cut those peppers just right, check out our easy guide on how to cut peppers like a pro! Place everything on a large baking sheet lined with foil or parchment paper. This will help with cleanup later and ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Mix the Seasonings

In a medium bowl, combine the salt, pepper, garlic, Italian seasoning, and olive oil. Mixing these together until fully combined allows all those wonderful flavors to infuse into your dish. Drizzling the seasoned oil over the sausages and vegetables ensures every bite is full of flavor.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Drizzle the seasonings over the sausage and peppers. Give everything a good mix with a spoon so that all the ingredients are coated evenly. Spreading everything out into an even layer is key—this helps everything roast nicely rather than steam.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pop your sheet pan into an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for about 35-40 minutes. Be sure to give it a stir halfway through; this ensures that everything cooks evenly. You’ll know it’s ready when the onions are soft and caramelized while the sausage is browned and crispy. Serve right away as-is or over rice, in salads, or in buns—enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers

Creating this delightful dish is a breeze, especially with a few handy tips to ensure everything turns out perfectly!

• Choose your sausage wisely: Using pre-cooked sausage not only cuts down on prep time but also ensures that your dish is packed with flavor. Look for options that are lower in fat and sodium for a healthier meal.
• Don’t skip the seasoning: The combination of Italian seasoning and garlic makes all the difference. This step enhances the natural flavors of the sausage and vegetables, creating a mouthwatering aroma that’ll have everyone gathering around the table.
• Cut veggies evenly: Make sure to slice your peppers and onions to a similar thickness. This ensures they cook evenly, giving you tender veggies that complement the crispy sausage beautifully.
• Stir halfway through cooking: Giving everything a gentle stir halfway through baking allows for even caramelization and prevents any sticking. It helps achieve that perfect balance of tenderness and crispiness.
• Experiment with spices: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite spices or herbs to customize the flavor profile. A dash of smoked paprika or some crushed red pepper flakes can add an exciting twist!

How to Serve Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers

Serving this dish can be as fun as making it! There are numerous ways to present it that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or basil: Chopped fresh herbs add a burst of color and an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Although it’s not animal-derived gelatin, if you’re okay with dairy, a sprinkle of finely grated Parmesan can add richness.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving gives a zesty finish that enhances all the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing complements the heartiness of the sausage and peppers while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Garlic bread: Crunchy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any juices from the sheet pan, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory sausage, creating a comforting side that’s also nutritious.
• Mixed green salad: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the warm, hearty sausages and peppers, balancing out your meal.

Now you’re all set to enjoy this colorful, delicious Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing it.

Freezing

• Allow the cooked sausage and peppers to cool completely.
• Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through (about 10-15 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can use the microwave; heat on medium power until hot, stirring halfway through.
• Enjoy as is, or serve over rice or in a bun again!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers.

Can I use different types of sausage for Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with any pre-cooked sausages that you enjoy. Chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even plant-based options work wonderfully too!

How can I customize my Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers?

You can add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes for extra flavor. Just remember to adjust cooking times if necessary based on what you add.

Can I make Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare it a few days ahead or even freeze portions for later use.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this vibrant and flavorful Sheet Pan Sausage and Peppers! It’s one of those comforting meals that bring family together around the table. Whether you serve it as a cozy dinner or meal prep it for the week ahead, I know you’ll love how easy and delicious it is. Enjoy every bite, and happy cooking!