Smoked Sausage
Juicy, savory smoked sausage, pan-fried until perfectly browned and caramelized. Paired with sweet sautéed onions and peppers, this Southern classic is a quick and flavorful meal ready in under 20 minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Ingredients (5 minutes)
- b.Slice the smoked sausage into 1/2-inch thick rounds. For more browning, slice on a diagonal.
- c.Thinly slice the yellow onion and bell pepper.
- d.Mince the garlic cloves.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Brown the Sausage (5-6 minutes)
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
- c.Add the sliced sausage in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
- d.Remove the sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside on a plate.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté the Vegetables (7-8 minutes)
- b.Reduce the heat to medium. Add the sliced onion and bell pepper to the same skillet, using the rendered fat from the sausage.
- c.Sauté, stirring occasionally, for 7-8 minutes until the vegetables are soft and have started to caramelize.
- d.Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan as the vegetables release their moisture.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Finish (2 minutes)
- b.Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- c.Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine.
- d.Season with salt and black pepper. Cook for another minute until the sausage is heated through.
- e.Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, brown the sausage first before cooking the vegetables. This creates a flavorful fond (browned bits) in the pan that the vegetables will absorb.
- 2Don't overcrowd the pan. Use a large skillet to ensure the sausage and vegetables sear properly rather than steam.
- 3If the pan seems dry when cooking the vegetables, you can add a splash of water or broth to help deglaze it and create a little steam.
- 4For a touch of acidity, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the dish just before serving.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy
Add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes with the garlic, or use a spicy Andouille sausage.
Extra VeggiesExtra Veggies
Incorporate sliced mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes along with the onions and peppers.
SaucySaucy
Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste with the garlic, or add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for a deeper, savory flavor.
Cajun StyleCajun Style
Use Andouille sausage and season with 1 teaspoon of Cajun or Creole seasoning when you add the salt and pepper.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Good Source of Protein
Sausage provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and keeping you feeling full.
Rich in B Vitamins
Pork sausage is a good source of B vitamins, particularly B12 and niacin, which are crucial for energy production, brain function, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
Contains Antioxidants
The bell peppers, onions, and garlic in this dish are packed with antioxidants like quercetin and vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
Frequently asked questions
Any pre-cooked smoked sausage works well. Kielbasa is a great mild option, while Andouille will add a spicy, Cajun flavor. You can also use chicken or turkey smoked sausage.