The Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty and fulfilling with minimal effort. This flavorful dish combines juicy sausages and vibrant bell peppers, all cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it takes on the stovetop. Embrace the convenience of modern cooking technology with your Instant Pot, turning a classic meal into a modern-day delight.

Growing up, my grandmother made traditional sausage and peppers for nearly every family gathering. The rich aroma would fill her entire home, making everyone’s mouth water even before the feast began. Now, I’ve adapted this cherished dish for the Instant Pot to honor her memory while saving time for my own busy family. It’s now a staple, bringing smiles and nostalgic vibes to our dinner table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a treasure for anyone seeking a quick yet delicious dinner option. Why you’ll love it:

• Time-Saving: The Instant Pot does the hard work, cutting traditional cooking time in half.
• Flavorful: The pressure-cooking method maximizes the rich and savory flavors of the sausage and peppers.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable to various types of sausage – from spicy Italian to mild turkey.

Ingredients Notes

For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Sausages: Italian sausages work best, but feel free to experiment with your favorite variety. Ensure they’re of high quality for the best taste.
• Bell Peppers: Use a mix of red, yellow, and green for a colorful presentation. Select firm peppers without blemishes for the best flavor.
• Onions and Garlic: These staples add depth and a great aroma to the dish. Opt for fresh, firm onions and garlic.
• Canned Tomatoes: Choose a high-quality brand to avoid unnecessary additives. Diced or whole with juice will work.
• Spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add a splash of olive oil and brown the sausages on all sides. Remove them and set aside.

Step 2

In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and aromatic.

Step 3

Add the sliced bell peppers and continue to cook for another 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4

Return the sausages to the pot along with the canned tomatoes and seasonings. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, set it to ‘Manual’ mode, and cook for 10 minutes at high pressure. Release the pressure naturally for 5 minutes before serving.

Storage Options

Store any leftover sausage and peppers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, and warm gently on the stovetop or using the microwave.

Variations & Substitutions

This recipe is flexible and can be tailored to your dietary needs or flavor preferences:

• For a lower-carb option, substitute the sausages with chicken sausages.
• Swap the peppers for additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for a different texture.
• Add a kick by choosing spicy sausages or including red pepper flakes in the seasoning mix.

Serving Suggestions

This savory dish can be served in numerous ways:

• Over a bed of steamy rice or pasta for a filling meal.
• Try it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
• Enjoy it as a hearty sandwich filling using Italian rolls or baguettes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! This dish is ideal for meal prepping. Make ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together.

Is it necessary to brown the sausages first? Browning the sausages adds a depth of flavor and texture to the dish, enriching the overall taste. However, if you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but be aware the texture will differ slightly.

What can I do if I don’t have an Instant Pot? No worries! You can make this dish on the stovetop. Follow the same initial steps in a large pot, then simmer on low heat after combining all the ingredients until the sausages are cooked through and the flavors have melded together.