Sausage and Peppers with Creamy Polenta
Juicy Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and onions simmered in a savory tomato sauce, all served over a bed of rich, creamy Parmesan polenta. A hearty and satisfying Italian-American classic.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 45 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Brown the Sausage
- b.Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- c.Add the sausage links in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until well-browned on all sides.
- d.Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside on a plate. Once cool enough to handle, slice into 1-inch thick rounds.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Vegetables
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. In the same pot with the rendered sausage fat, add the sliced onions and bell peppers.
- c.Sauté for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft, tender, and lightly caramelized at the edges.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Simmer the Sauce
- b.Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Add the dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), 1 tsp of the salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
- c.Return the sliced sausage to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- d.Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Prepare the Creamy Polenta
- b.While the sauce simmers, combine the chicken broth, milk, and the remaining 1 tsp of salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
- c.While whisking constantly, slowly and gradually pour the cornmeal into the boiling liquid. This prevents lumps from forming.
- d.Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, whisking or stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, for 20-25 minutes. The polenta is done when it is thick, creamy, and pulls away from the sides of the pan.
- e.Remove the polenta from the heat. Stir in the cubed butter and grated Parmesan cheese until they are completely melted and incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve
- b.Divide the creamy polenta among four serving bowls.
- c.Spoon a generous amount of the sausage and peppers mixture over the polenta.
- d.Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, don't overcrowd the pan when browning the sausage. Cook in batches if necessary.
- 2Using a mix of bell pepper colors not only looks beautiful but also provides a range of sweet flavors.
- 3Whisk the polenta constantly as you add it to the boiling liquid to ensure a smooth, lump-free texture.
- 4If your polenta becomes too thick upon standing, you can thin it out with a splash of warm milk or broth before serving.
- 5For a deeper flavor in the sauce, deglaze the pan with a splash of dry red wine after sautéing the vegetables and before adding the tomatoes.
- 6Use sweet Italian sausage instead of hot if you prefer a milder dish.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute the pork sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. You can also use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
Vegetable AdditionVegetable Addition
Add 8 oz of sliced cremini mushrooms or a large sliced zucchini along with the peppers and onions for extra nutrients and flavor.
Polenta FlavoringPolenta Flavoring
Stir in a different cheese like Gruyère or smoked Gouda instead of Parmesan. A spoonful of mascarpone or cream cheese will make it even richer.
Serving SuggestionServing Suggestion
If you're not a fan of polenta, the sausage and peppers mixture is also delicious served in a crusty hoagie roll, over pasta, or with roasted potatoes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Italian sausage provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Excellent Source of Vitamins
Bell peppers are packed with Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system, and Vitamin A, which is important for vision and skin health.
Provides Complex Carbohydrates
The polenta, made from cornmeal, offers complex carbohydrates that provide sustained energy, unlike the quick spike and crash from simple sugars.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of Sausage and Peppers with Creamy Polenta contains approximately 750-850 calories, depending on the specific type of sausage and amount of cheese used. It is a hearty and calorie-dense meal.