Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers are a delightful and hearty dish that brings a taste of Italy right to your kitchen. These vibrant bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of sweet Italian sausage, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice, making them a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends and family. Not only are they incredibly satisfying, but they also offer a great way to incorporate colorful vegetables into your meal. Let’s dive into the reasons you’ll want to add this recipe to your rotation and how to make these delicious stuffed peppers.

Top Reasons to Make Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers

Flavorful Filling: The combination of sweet Italian sausage, garlic, and spices creates a filling that is absolutely bursting with flavor.
Customizable: You can easily modify the filling to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Try swapping out the sausage for ground turkey or adding different vegetables.
Meal Prep Friendly: These stuffed peppers can be made ahead of time and stored, making them perfect for meal prep or a quick dinner option.
Visually Appealing: The colorful bell peppers make for an inviting and beautiful presentation, sure to impress your guests.
Comfort Food: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for warming you up on a chilly evening.

What to Buy

1 pound sweet Italian sausage: Casings removed, this is the star of the filling.
1 medium onion: Diced for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 garlic cloves: Minced to bring in aromatic notes.
1 ½ teaspoons dried Italian seasoning: This adds a classic Italian flavor profile.
1 teaspoon Cajun or Creole seasoning: For a little kick and warmth.
½ teaspoon salt: To enhance the overall flavor.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground for best taste.
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for those who like extra heat.
1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Undrained, for moisture and flavor.
⅓ cup chicken broth: To keep the filling moist.
1 ½ cups cooked long-grain rice: This helps to bulk up the filling and make it filling.
4 bell peppers: Choose a mix of colors for a fun presentation.
1 cup shredded Italian cheese: For a cheesy topping that melts beautifully.
Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish and freshness.

Prep & Cook Tools

Large skillet: For cooking the sausage and vegetables.
Baking dish: To hold the stuffed peppers while they bake.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Spoon or spatula: For mixing the filling.

Cooking Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers: The Process

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This allows for an even cooking temperature once the stuffed peppers are ready to go in.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Stir in the dried Italian seasoning, Cajun or Creole seasoning, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well to ensure the spices coat the sausage and onion mixture.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Rice

Add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer for about 2 minutes. Then, fold in the cooked long-grain rice until everything is well combined.

Step 6: Prepare the Peppers

While the filling is simmering, cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Arrange them upright in a baking dish.

Step 7: Stuff the Peppers

Spoon the sausage and rice mixture into each bell pepper, packing it in firmly. Top each pepper with a generous amount of shredded Italian cheese.

Step 8: Bake

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Remove the stuffed peppers from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers!

In-Season Flavor Ideas

Fresh Basil: Chop and sprinkle on top before serving for a fragrant touch.
Zucchini: Dice and mix into the filling for added texture and nutrition.
Spinach: Sauté with the onion and garlic for a nutritious boost.
Parmesan Cheese: Swap some of the Italian cheese with freshly grated Parmesan for a more robust flavor.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Feel free to use leftover rice from a previous meal to save time.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with a mixture of beans and vegetables.
Using a variety of colored bell peppers not only looks great but also adds slight variations in flavor.
Leftover filling can be used as a topping for baked potatoes or mixed into pasta for a quick meal.

Best Ways to Store

These Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To store, allow the peppers to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed peppers. Just wrap each pepper tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake them straight from the freezer, adding a little extra cooking time.

Reader Q&A

Can I use other types of sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can use any ground sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage or chicken sausage. Just adjust cooking times as needed based on the type of meat you choose.

How do I know when the stuffed peppers are done cooking?

The stuffed peppers are done when the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, and the peppers have softened but still hold their shape. A fork should easily pierce through the pepper skin.

Can I make these stuffed peppers ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and stuff the peppers a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they’re cold from the fridge.

What sides pair well with Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers?

These stuffed peppers are quite filling on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread to soak up any extra juices from the dish.

Save & Share

If you enjoyed this recipe for Italian Sausage Stuffed Peppers, don’t forget to save it to your favorite recipe collection and share it with friends and family! These delicious peppers are sure to become a staple in your home, bringing smiles and satisfaction to every meal. Happy cooking!