Tuscan Fennel Sausage & Sweet Peppers Skillet

Name: Tuscan Fennel Sausage & Sweet Peppers Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb Italian fennel sausage; 3 tbsp olive oil; 2 red bell peppers, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 large onion, sliced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Salt, to taste; Black pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

🕒 Prep: 10 min

🔥 Cook: 30 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

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If you're craving a comforting and flavorful meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen, this Tuscan Fennel Sausage & Sweet Peppers Skillet is your answer. It's a vibrant dish that's both simple to prepare and rich in taste, perfect for a cozy dinner.

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Ingredients for Tuscan Fennel Sausage & Sweet Peppers Skillet

The star of the dish is the Italian fennel sausage. Its unique blend of spices and fennel seeds bring an authentic Tuscan flavor to the table. Olive oil is used to sauté the ingredients, infusing them with a rich, smooth taste. The trio of bell peppers — two red and one yellow — adds color and a sweet, mild flavor. Onion provides a savory base, while garlic enhances the overall aroma. Dried oregano and red pepper flakes contribute depth and a touch of heat. A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end adds a tangy finish, and the fresh basil leaves offer a burst of freshness right before serving.

Tips & Tricks

If your sausages are particularly fatty, you might want to drain some of the excess fat after browning them to avoid a greasy dish.
For an extra layer of flavor, deglaze the skillet with a bit of white wine before adding the balsamic vinegar.
To keep the peppers vibrant, avoid overcooking them. They should remain slightly crisp for texture.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside creamy polenta or over a bed of warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage?: Absolutely! While Italian fennel sausage is traditional, you can use any sausage you prefer. Just be mindful that the flavor profile may change slightly.
Is there a vegetarian option?: Yes, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or even use hearty mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Tuscan Fennel Sausage & Sweet Peppers Skillet Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating about 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the Italian fennel sausage. Allow it to cook, turning occasionally, until it's browned on all sides. This should take around 8 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausages from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

In the same skillet, toss in your sliced onions. Let them cook for about 5 minutes until they become translucent and start to soften. Next, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir these together with the onions for about a minute, allowing the flavors to meld.

Now, it's time to introduce the sliced bell peppers to the skillet. Cook them for approximately 8 minutes until they reach a tender-crisp texture. The vibrant colors of the peppers should start to deepen as they cook.

Return the sausages to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the balsamic vinegar, stirring everything together to ensure the sausages and vegetables are well-coated. Season the dish with salt and black pepper to taste. Allow everything to cook together for a couple of minutes, letting the flavors combine.

Finally, before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh basil over the top. This final touch adds a burst of color and a fresh, aromatic note to your dish.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare in just one skillet.
Rich in Italian flavors with a hint of spice.
Perfect for a weeknight meal or casual entertaining.
Minimal cleanup required, leaving more time to enjoy your evening.

Ingredients

1 lb Italian fennel sausage

3 tbsp olive oil

2 red bell peppers, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 large onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tsp dried oregano

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

Salt, to taste

Black pepper, to taste

1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 8 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the garlic, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Stir for 1 minute.

5. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender-crisp, about 8 minutes.

6. Return the sausages to the skillet and pour in the balsamic vinegar. Stir to combine.