This flavorful Italian sausage, pepper, and onion sandwich is a classic comfort food adored by kids and adults alike. Sausage, pepper, and onion are cooked to perfection, enveloped in rich tomato sauce, and served on crusty Italian hoagie buns for a hearty and satisfying meal.
While most ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples, there are a few items you may need to pick up from the supermarket. The Italian sausage links are a key ingredient, offering a distinct, hearty flavor. The Italian-style hoagie buns, which are typically larger and crustier than regular buns, are essential for holding all the mouth-watering ingredients together.
Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwich Ingredients
Italian sausage links: These are the heart of the sandwich, offering a rich and hearty flavor.
Whole tomatoes: They provide a fresh and tangy flavor to the sauce.
Tomato sauce: This is the base for our sauce, adding depth and tanginess.
Parmesan cheese: It adds a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce.
Garlic powder: This gives an extra kick of flavor to the sauce.
Italian seasoning: It brings a blend of classic Italian herbs, enhancing the overall flavor.
White sugar: A pinch of sugar helps to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Onion powder: This adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
Green bell peppers: They add a crunchy texture and mild sweetness to the sandwich.
Onions: They contribute to the overall flavor and texture of the sandwich.
Italian-style hoagie buns: These are larger and crustier than regular buns, perfect for holding all the ingredients together.
One reader, Aldis Moody says:
This sausage, pepper, and onion sandwich recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the sausages are so juicy and tender. The combination of peppers and onions adds a delicious crunch. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a hearty, flavorful sandwich.
Essential Techniques for Making Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
How to brown the sausages: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausages until they are browned on all sides. This will help to enhance the flavor and texture of the sausages.
How to simmer the sauce: After adding all the ingredients to the saucepan, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 6 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken, resulting in a rich and flavorful sauce for the sandwich filling.
How to serve on Italian hoagie buns: Once the sausage, pepper, and onion mixture is ready, spoon it onto the Italian hoagie buns and serve immediately. The buns will provide a delicious base for the flavorful sausage and vegetable filling.
This sausage, peppers, and onions sandwich exudes spicy and savory flavors in every bite. The mash-up of juicy sausage, caramelized onions, and tender peppers stuffed in a hoagie roll is simply sublime. Add a generous amount of seasoned sauce, and you get yourself an incomparable sausage sandwich to tickle your taste buds!
There’s just something utterly irresistible about sausage with peppers and onions all cooked together. It’s one of my go-to Italian sausage recipes when I want to please my palate with a party of flavors. In the past, though, I only served it over pasta and rice. But Italian sausage and peppers with onions are also good when stuffed into bread!
My sausage, peppers, and onions recipe is the embodiment of deliciousness because it brings together flavorful ingredients in just one pan. You’ll need five pounds of Italian sausage—my recipe would be good for a crowd of 25 guests. But feel free to adjust the quantity if you want. You can use either hot or sweet Italian sausage, or a combination of both just to give your guests options.
I also prepared, dare I say, the best thing that could ever happen in an Italian sausage sandwich: a flavored sauce. Highly recommended! There’s nothing quite like the delicious bite of authentic Italian sausages cooked with a sauce that consists of tomato sauce, whole tomatoes, and crushed tomatoes. Adding garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and onion powder made it even more flavorful than it already was! I also stirred in a dash of sugar to up the sweetness a bit. Of course, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese is always a welcome addition. If hot sausage sandwiches appeal to you, then, by all means, add red pepper flakes.
My version used green bell peppers. But if you want to make your sausage, peppers, and onions sandwich more pleasing to the eyes, use different-colored bell peppers. The natural sweetness of caramelized onions also shines in this sausage sandwich recipe. As for the bread, I opted for Italian hoagie buns. But you can use your preferred bread, provided they are of the same length as the sausages and can hold up to this ingredient-stuffed sandwich.
Making crave-able sandwiches with sausage, peppers, and onions is so straightforward. It only requires 15 minutes of prep. For a really fantastic texture, I started with searing the Italian sausages until they browned, creating the most delicious pan juices at the same time. Then, I cooked the sauce, along with the seasonings, in a large saucepan. Oh, and don’t forget to sprinkle the sauce with cheese! I nestled the cooked sausages on top with the bell peppers and onions and let it cook for 6 hours.
When it’s done, I came back to Italian sausages, caramelized onions, and tender bell peppers soaked in a flavorful sauce. You can even toss the Italian sausage links, onions, and sliced bell peppers into the crockpot or slow cooker and go about your day. Smoked and grilled sausage, peppers, and onions sandwich is also an option if you’re having a barbecue party.
You can never go wrong with this Italian sausage and peppers sandwich. Whether you’re in a dinner rut or having tailgate and game-day parties, it just fits the bill. Grated cheese and fresh parsley would be a delightful finishing touch.
How To Make Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
Bring together juicy Italian sausages, caramelized onions, and tender bell peppers in one delicious bite. It’s a vibrant dish to perk up your weeknight dinners and parties!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 5 lb Italian sausage links
- 28 oz whole tomatoes, (2 cans) peeled
- 28 oz tomatoes, (1 can) crushed
- 29 oz tomato sauce,(1 can)
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese,grated
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp Italian Seasoning
- 1 tbsp white sugar
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 4 large green bell peppers, thickly sliced
- 3 large onions, thickly sliced
- 25 Italian-style hoagie buns, (6 inch)
Instructions
- Cut the sausages apart into individual links, if necessary. Then, place them into a large skillet over medium heat, and brown them on all sides. Set the sausages aside, reserving the pan drippings.
- Pour the whole tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce into a large saucepan with a lid. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, sugar, and onion powder.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the cooked sausages, pan drippings, green peppers, and onions.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 6 hours until the vegetables are very tender and the sauce has thickened. Serve on Italian hoagie buns.
Recipe Notes
- You can also use a French baguette for your sausage peppers and onions sandwich.
- Tomato paste is also a brilliant addition to the sauce.
- Adding red wine vinegar will give the sauce a bit of tang.
Nutrition
- Calories: 460.57kcal
- Fat: 30.76g
- Saturated Fat: 10.89g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.91g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.10g
- Carbohydrates: 27.76g
- Fiber: 3.56g
- Sugar: 4.87g
- Protein: 18.18g
- Cholesterol: 69.96mg
- Sodium: 1097.72mg
- Calcium: 96.95mg
- Potassium: 588.21mg
- Iron: 2.99mg
- Vitamin A: 34.93µg
- Vitamin C: 35.02mg
Pro Tip for Perfecting Your Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
When browning the Italian sausage links, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This could lead to the sausages steaming instead of browning, which could affect the overall flavor of the sandwich. Also, consider using a non-stick pan for easier cleanup.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Sandwich Recipe
Prep ahead: Prepare the sausage and vegetable mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of serving.
Use pre-cut vegetables: Consider using pre-cut onions and peppers to save time on chopping and preparation.
Slow cooker: Utilize a slow cooker to simmer the sausage, pepper, and onion mixture. This will allow you to set it and forget it, saving time and effort.
Bulk cooking: Consider making a larger batch of the sausage, pepper, and onion mixture and freezing the extra portions for future use. This will save time on future meal prep.
Multi-task: While the sausage and vegetables are simmering, use that time to prepare other components of the meal or work on other tasks in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches Recipe
Italian sausage links - Substitute with vegan sausage links: If you're looking for a plant-based alternative, vegan sausage links can provide a similar savory flavor and texture.
Whole tomatoes - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes can be used as a convenient substitute, providing a similar texture and flavor to whole tomatoes.
Tomato sauce - Substitute with tomato puree: Tomato puree can be used as a substitute for tomato sauce, offering a thicker consistency and intense tomato flavor.
Parmesan cheese - Substitute with Pecorino Romano: Pecorino Romano cheese can be used as a substitute for Parmesan, offering a similar salty and tangy flavor.
Garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic powder, providing a more intense and aromatic garlic flavor.
Italian seasoning - Substitute with dried oregano and basil mix: A blend of dried oregano and basil can be used as a substitute for Italian seasoning, offering similar herbaceous notes.
White sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener alternative to white sugar, adding a touch of sweetness to the recipe.
Onion powder - Substitute with finely chopped fresh onions: Finely chopped fresh onions can be used as a substitute for onion powder, providing a more pronounced onion flavor and texture.
Green bell peppers - Substitute with red bell peppers: Red bell peppers can be used as a substitute for green bell peppers, offering a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color.
Onions - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for onions, providing a milder and sweeter flavor profile.
Italian-style hoagie buns - Substitute with ciabatta rolls: Ciabatta rolls can be used as a substitute for Italian-style hoagie buns, offering a rustic and chewy texture.
The Perfect Way to Present Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
Elevate the plating: When presenting the sausage, pepper, and onion sandwich, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing plate. Use fresh herbs and microgreens to add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Incorporate texture: Add a crunchy element to the dish by serving the sandwich with a side of homemade potato chips. This will provide a delightful contrast to the softness of the sandwich and elevate the overall dining experience.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate. Arrange the sandwich, peppers, and onions meticulously to create a visually stunning presentation that showcases the care and attention to detail put into the dish.
Utilize complementary colors: Consider the color wheel when plating the dish. Pair the vibrant red of the tomato sauce with the green peppers and onions to create a visually striking and appetizing presentation.
Add a touch of elegance: Elevate the presentation by serving the sandwich on a wooden board or a rustic serving platter. This adds a touch of sophistication and warmth to the overall dining experience.
Essential Tools for Making Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods.
- Large saucepan with a lid: A deep cooking pot with a lid, used for making sauces, soups, and stews.
- Cutting board: A flat board used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile kitchen knife used for slicing, chopping, and dicing.
- Wooden spoon: A sturdy spoon made of wood, used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Tongs: Kitchen utensils with two arms and a pivot used for gripping and lifting food items.
- Spatula: A flat, broad utensil with a long handle, used for lifting and flipping foods.
- Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for frying, sautéing, and searing foods.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used to measure precise amounts of ingredients for recipes.
- Sharp knife: A knife with a sharp blade used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
- Can opener: A tool used for opening cans and tins.
- Large mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for mixing and combining ingredients.
- Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a long handle, used for heating and cooking sauces, soups, and liquids.
- Lid: A cover for a pot or pan used for cooking and simmering ingredients.
- Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food items.
- Toaster: An appliance used for toasting bread and sandwich buns.
- Grill: A cooking surface with parallel metal bars used for grilling and searing foods.
- Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for wrapping and covering food items.
- Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan used for baking and roasting foods in the oven.
- Stove: A cooking appliance with burners used for heating and cooking food in pots and pans.
Storing and Freezing Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
- Allow the sausage, pepper, and onion mixture to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For short-term storage, transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the mixture for later use:
- Divide the cooled mixture into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, where they will keep for up to 3 months.
- To reheat the frozen sausage, pepper, and onion mixture:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed mixture to a saucepan and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the mixture in the microwave, stirring every 30 seconds to ensure even heating.
- If you have leftover hoagie buns, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- For longer storage, place the wrapped buns in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen buns, wrap them in foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
How To Reheat Leftover Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes or until heated through. This method helps to retain the moisture and prevent the bread from becoming too crispy.
If you prefer a crispy exterior, you can reheat the sandwich in a skillet or on a griddle. Brush the cut sides of the hoagie bun with a little olive oil or butter. Place the sandwich on the preheated skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is toasted and the filling is heated through.
For a quick and easy option, you can use a microwave. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high power for 30-60 seconds, or until heated through. Be aware that the bread may become slightly soggy using this method.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your sandwich. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich in the basket and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and the bread is crispy.
For a more flavorful reheating experience, you can add some extra cheese or a dollop of marinara sauce on top of the filling before reheating. This will help to keep the sandwich moist and add an extra layer of flavor.
Interesting Trivia About Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
Italian sausage is a popular type of sausage in the United States, but it actually has its origins in Italy. The sausage is typically made from pork and seasoned with fennel and other spices, giving it a distinctive flavor. It's often used in Italian dishes such as pasta, pizza, and sandwiches.
Is Making Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this sausage, pepper, and onion sandwich recipe largely depends on the quality and price of the ingredients. While the 5 lbs of Italian sausage and other components may require a moderate initial investment, the resulting quantity and flavor make it a cost-effective option for a household. The versatility of the dish also adds value. Rating: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $35-$40.
Is This Sandwich Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This sausage, pepper, and onion sandwich recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High saturated fat content from the Italian sausages
- Excessive sodium from the sausages and tomato products
- Large portion sizes (5 lbs of sausage for 25 sandwiches)
- Refined carbohydrates in the hoagie buns
However, the recipe does include some nutritious ingredients, such as tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers, which provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Opt for lean Italian chicken or turkey sausages instead of traditional pork sausages to reduce saturated fat
- Use low-sodium tomato products to decrease the overall sodium content
- Reduce the portion sizes by using smaller buns or cutting the sausages in half
- Incorporate more vegetables into the sandwich, such as sliced zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms, to increase fiber and nutrient density
- Choose whole-grain or sprouted grain hoagie buns for added fiber and nutrients
- Limit the amount of cheese used or select a low-fat variety to decrease saturated fat content
By making these adjustments, you can still enjoy the classic flavors of a sausage, pepper, and onion sandwich while significantly improving its nutritional profile.
Editor's Opinion on This Delicious Sandwich Recipe
This sausage, pepper, and onion sandwich recipe is a classic Italian-inspired dish that promises a burst of flavors. The combination of savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and tender onions, simmered in a rich tomato sauce, creates a hearty and satisfying filling for the hoagie buns. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious and comforting sandwich. However, I would suggest adjusting the cooking time to ensure the vegetables maintain some texture and freshness. Overall, this recipe offers a delightful and rustic sandwich experience that is sure to please any crowd.
Enhance Your Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Appetizers and Desserts That Complement Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches
Why trust this Sausage, Pepper, and Onion Sandwiches Recipe:
This recipe guarantees authenticity and flavor, using only the finest ingredients. The Italian sausage is rich and savory, complemented by the vibrant flavors of peppers and onions. The robust tomato sauce, enhanced with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a touch of sugar, creates a luscious base. The slow simmering process ensures that the sausage and vegetables are tender and infused with the aromatic sauce. The addition of Parmesan cheese elevates the dish, adding a delightful richness. This recipe promises a satisfying and authentic Italian experience.
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