This Smoked Sausage and Peppers Skillet recipe is a quick and easy dinner idea that comes together in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect one-pan low-carb meal—packed with flavor, colorful veggies, and protein. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something hearty and healthy, this dish is a great go-to for busy weeknights.
Once you see how quick and effortless it is to make this Smoked Sausage and Peppers Skillet, it’ll become one of your go-to meals for busy weeknights. It’s the kind of simple one-pan recipe that practically cooks itself. Just prep a few basic ingredients, toss them into a hot skillet, and let the magic happen.
Sounds easy, right?
Picture this: smoky, golden-browned sausage slices paired with crisp-tender bell peppers, sautéed with fresh garlic, onions, and Italian herbs. Every bite is bursting with bold, savory flavor—and it all comes together in under 30 minuteswith minimal cleanup.
Why You’ll Love This Smoked Sausage and Peppers Skillet
This easy smoked sausage and peppers skillet is the ultimate go-to meal when you need something quick, satisfying, and full of flavor. Here’s why this recipe is a keeper:
- Ready in just 30 minutes – Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table fast.
- Meal prep friendly – You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for easy lunches or quick reheats.
- Budget-friendly – Made with simple, affordable ingredients that deliver big flavor without breaking the bank.
- One-pan wonder – Fewer dishes, less mess, and faster cleanup. Everything cooks in a single skillet!
- Customizable and versatile – Use your favorite type of sausage, swap in different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or spice it up with red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
- Naturally low in carbs and gluten-free – Great for those following a keto, paleo, or low-carb lifestyle.
- Family-approved – Kids and adults alike will love the smoky, savory flavors and vibrant, colorful veggies.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a hungry family, this one-skillet sausage and peppers recipe is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Ingredients for Smoked Sausage and Peppers Skillet
This easy smoked sausage and peppers recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, especially on a busy day. It uses simple, budget-friendly ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store. Here’s everything you need to make this flavorful one-pan meal:
- Olive Oil – Used to sear the sausage until it’s perfectly browned. You can also use avocado oil or any neutral vegetable oil you have on hand.
- Andouille Sausage – This sausage adds a bold, smoky flavor that really shines in this recipe. You can also substitute with kielbasa, bratwurst, or your favorite Italian sausage.
- Bell Pepper – Use a mix of red and yellow bell peppers for a vibrant, colorful dish. They add a touch of sweetness and crunch that pairs perfectly with the savory sausage.
- Onion – Choose your favorite type: yellow onion for a classic flavor, or red onion for a slightly sweeter taste and a pop of color.
- Italian Seasoning – Adds herby depth and aroma. Use store-bought or make your own blend for a cleaner, low-calorie homemade version.
- Garlic – Minced garlic brings a bold, fragrant flavor that enhances the dish beautifully.
- Salt&Pepper – Season to taste. Keep it simple or adjust depending on the saltiness of your sausage.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, but perfect for adding a little heat. Feel free to leave it out if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Parsley – Chopped parsley makes a great garnish and adds a burst of freshness to the final dish.
How to Make Smoked Sausage and Peppers Skillet
This easy smoked sausage and peppers skillet is one of my go-to meals because it’s flavorful, filling, and comes together in just 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s exactly how to make it:
Brown The Sausage
Slice the sausage into 1/2-inch rounds.
Heat one tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the sliced sausage and cook for a few minutes until browned.
Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare The Vegetables
Wash and chop up the vegetables to the same size.
Cook The Vegetables
Add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet where you browned the sausage.
Cook the minced garlic for 2 minutes until tender, then add the onion and bell peppers.
Season with Italian seasoning, red pepper chili flakes, salt&pepper and cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but slightly crunchy.
Add The Sausage
Return the cooked sausage back to the skillet, stir until everything is well combined, and cook for 2 more minutes.
Turn off the heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy.
Tips and Variations
Want to make the perfect smoked sausage and peppers skillet every time? Here are some helpful tips and fun ways to customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs:
- Cut vegetables into uniform sizes – This helps ensure everything cooks evenly and prevents some pieces from being undercooked while others are mushy.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet – Give the ingredients room to sear properly. If your skillet is small, cook in batches. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Watch the sausage closely while browning – Sausage can brown quickly due to its fat content, so turn it frequently to avoid burning.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan – These pans retain heat well and help you get that perfect caramelized texture on both sausage and vegetables.
- Add garlic at the right time – Garlic can burn quickly, so sauté it briefly before adding the rest of the vegetables.
- Adjust the spice level – Add more or less red pepper flakes depending on your heat preference, or use a spicy sausage for extra kick.
- Switch up the sausage – Try chorizo, turkey sausage, or chicken sausage for a leaner or spicier twist.
- Change the veggies – Add extra vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrients.
- Make it cheesy – Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top and melt it under the broiler for a melty finish.
- Low-carb meal prep – Pair it with cauliflower rice, zoodles, or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying keto-friendly dinner.
- Turn it into a wrap or bowl – Serve in a low-carb tortilla or over mashed cauliflower for a heartier meal.
Serving Ideas
I like eating this easy smoked sausage and peppers skillet as simple as it is since it’s full of veggies and nutrients. But you can also pair it with many side dishes. Here are some great ideas:
- Cauliflower Rice
- Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
- Air Fryer Asparagus
- Cauliflower Risotto
Storing Ideas
- Fridge: you can store any leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To reheat: Reheat the leftovers in the microwave for 3 minutes or reheat them in the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe With Other Type Of Sausage?
Sure, feel free to use your favorite sausage. Kielbasa or chorizo are great substitutes for andouille sausage since they have a perfect ration of meat and fat.
Can I Freeze This Smoked Sausage And Pepper Skillet?
Yes, place the cooled leftovers into freezer bags or an airtight container, and freeze for up to two months.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead?
Yes, this skillet recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can prep all the ingredients and store them in the fridge until ready to cook.
Smoked Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Description
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 12 ounces andouille sausage
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 yellow onion small
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 4 cloves garlic
- salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
- parsley fresh chopped
Instructions
- Slice the sausage into 1/2-inch rounds.
- Heat one tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the sausage for a few minutes until browned.
- Once browned, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Wash and chop up the vegetables to the same size.
- Add the remaining olive oil to the same skillet, and cook the minced garlic for 2 minutes.
- Add the onion and bell peppers, season with Italian seasoning, red pepper chili flakes, salt&pepper.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but slightly crunchy.
- Return the cooked sausage back to the skillet, and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Turn off the heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy.
How do we calculate the nutrition info?
These nutrition facts listed are determined using nutrition information from the USDA Food Database. Our nutrition facts are accurate, but if you are using different products, please make your calculations. Net carb count is calculated by subtracting both fiber and sugar alcohols because they don’t raise blood sugar.