I'm usually a snack board girlie, so when I get assigned the big "main dish" moment, I panic a little. This recipe saves me every single time because it's cozy, flavorful, and literally cooks itself. Plus it smells so good that people think I put way more work into it than I did.
This slow cooker meal is cozy, beginner friendly, and perfect for potlucks, holiday dinners, or any night you want something comforting without extra cleanup.
Things to Know Before Making Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
- Browning the sausages first gives you way more flavor
- Slice the peppers thicker so they stay soft and tender but not mushy
- Use your favorite marinara because it really sets the vibe
- Add cheese at the end for a cute, melty, aesthetic finish
I love this recipe because it feels like comfort food without any stress.
If you're into easy, slow cooker meals, you'll love these too: Slow Cooker Root Beer Beef Stew, Slow Cooker Dr Pepper Pork Chops, and Easy Slow Cooker Soy Spareribs.
Ingredients You'll Need
Scroll to the recipe card for exact measurements.
- Italian sausages: the cozy, flavorful base
- Bell peppers: add color and sweetness
- Onion: brings everything together with extra warmth
- Garlic salt: easy seasoning that instantly boosts flavor
- Italian seasoning: adds the perfect hint of herbs
- Black pepper: simple but essential
- Marinara sauce: makes everything saucy and delicious
- Olive oil: helps brown the sausages
- Mozzarella cheese: totally optional but makes it extra cozy
How to Make Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Step 1: Warm a skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil. Add the sausages and let them brown for a couple minutes on each side. They do not need to cook through yet, just get a nice golden sear.
Step 2: Place the browned sausages in the crockpot. Add the sliced peppers and onions on top. Sprinkle the garlic salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper over everything.
Step 3: Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the vegetables. Cover and cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours until the sausages are fully cooked and the peppers are tender.
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and broil the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until melty and bubbly.
Substitutions and Variations
- Use turkey or chicken sausages for a lighter option
- Swap marinara for tomato basil sauce for a sweeter flavor
- Add sliced mushrooms for extra texture
- Finish with parmesan instead of mozzarella for a sharper bite
What to Serve with Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Serve this cozy dish with toasted buns, garlic bread, or a simple Caesar salad. If you want something cute for serving at a potluck, set out small rolls and make mini sausage sandwiches.
Storage and Freezing
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until hot. Freeze the sausage and peppers without the cheese for best texture, then add cheese after reheating.
FAQs
Do I have to brown the sausages first?
It's not required, but browning adds deeper flavor and better texture.
Can I use frozen sausages?
Yes, but thawing first gives more even cooking and better browning.
Can I double this recipe for a potluck?
Absolutely, just use a larger crockpot so everything cooks evenly.
Can I make this without marinara?
Yes, but marinara adds the cozy, saucy vibe that makes this dish so good.
More Easy Slow Cooker Recipes
- Slow Cooker Crack Potato Soup
- Easy Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef
- Slow Cooker Italian Wedding Soup
- Slow Cooker Chicken Parmesan
- Slow Cooker French Onion Chicken and Rice
- Crockpot Slow Cooker Soy Honey Garlic Chicken
- Slow Cooker Lentil and Ham Soup
- Slow Cooker Million Dollar Tortellini
- Slow Cooker Chicken and Stuffing
- Slow Cooker French Onion Beef and Noodles
Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
This crockpot sausage and peppers recipe is cozy, easy, and perfect for potlucks or busy weeknights. A trendy slow cooker favorite everyone loves.
Ingredients
- 5 uncooked Italian sausages
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (red and green)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt or salt plus garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions
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Warm a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in the olive oil. Brown the sausages for 2 to 3 minutes on each side to develop flavor, then place them in the bottom of the slow cooker.
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Layer the sliced onions and peppers over the sausages. Sprinkle the garlic salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning across the top.
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Spread the marinara sauce evenly over the vegetables. Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours or on low for 6 to 7 hours until the sausages are cooked through and the peppers are tender.
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For an optional cheesy finish, sprinkle the mozzarella over the top and broil for 1 to 2 minutes until melted and bubbly.
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Serve as is or on toasted buns with an extra sprinkle of cheese.
Recipe Notes
• Browning the sausages adds flavor
• Use a good marinara for the best taste
• Add cheese if you want extra coziness
• Perfect for potlucks or family parties
• Serve in buns for easy sandwiches
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