Introduction
Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions over Garlic Mashed Potatoes is the kind of comforting, home-style dish that warms both the heart and the appetite. Rooted in classic Italian-American cooking, this recipe combines the bold, savory flavor of juicy sausage with the sweetness of sautéed peppers and onions. Served over creamy garlic mashed potatoes, it transforms a simple skillet meal into a complete and satisfying dinner. Perfect for family gatherings, weeknight meals, or even casual entertaining, this dish brings together rustic flavors and hearty textures in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 4 cloves garlic (peeled)
- ½ cup whole milk (warm)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sausage, Peppers & Onions:
- 1 ½ lbs Italian sausage links (mild or hot, as you prefer)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 large green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 large yellow onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- ½ cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for saucier version)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Make the Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Place potatoes and 4 cloves of garlic in a large pot of salted water.
- Boil until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- Drain, then mash with warm milk, butter, salt, and black pepper until creamy. Cover to keep warm.
2. Cook the Sausage, Peppers & Onions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage links and cook until browned on all sides (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5–6 minutes.
- Add chicken broth (or wine) to deglaze the pan, scraping up browned bits. Stir in diced tomatoes (if using) and Italian seasoning.
- Return sausages to the skillet, reduce heat, and simmer for 10–12 minutes until sausages are cooked through and flavors meld together.
3. Assemble & Serve
- Spoon a generous serving of garlic mashed potatoes onto each plate.
- Top with sausage, peppers, and onions, plus extra sauce from the skillet.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Storage Method
- Refrigeration:
Store sausages, peppers, onions, and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers to maintain the best texture. They will keep well in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. - Freezing:
- The sausage, peppers, and onions mixture freezes very well. Place it in freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 2 months.
- Garlic mashed potatoes can also be frozen, though they may lose a bit of creaminess. To help, add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.
- Reheating:
- For the sausage mixture: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
- For the mashed potatoes: Warm in the microwave or on the stove, stirring in extra butter or milk for a smooth, creamy texture