This Italian Sausage with Peppers Sandwich is a vibrant, hearty meal that combines savory sausage with sweet, caramelized peppers and onions for a flavor-packed bite.
High in protein and rich in fiber from fresh vegetables, it provides lasting energy while being balanced with heart-healthy fats from olive oil.
Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for weekday dinners or meal prep, delivering a satisfying, colorful dish that’s both comforting and nutritious.
It’s a simple way to elevate your everyday sandwich routine.
Italian Sausage & Peppers Panini
Equipment
- 1 Large Saucepan
- 1 Large Cast Iron Skillet
- 1 Sharp Knife
- 1 Tongs
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil divided
- 6 garlic cloves finely minced, divided
- 2 teaspoons dried Italian herb blend
- 1 teaspoon fennel seeds
- 1/4 to 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 2 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken stock
- 1 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 3 medium bell peppers yellow, red, or green, thinly sliced
- 2 medium sweet onions thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 4 Italian sausages sweet or hot, 4 ounces each
- 4 Italian sub rolls 8-inch, split and lightly toasted
Instructions
- Prepare the Flavorful Tomato Base: Start by gathering a large saucepan and adding 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers lightly, add half of the minced garlic along with 2 teaspoons of Italian herb blend, 1 teaspoon of fennel seeds, and 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Stir constantly for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to turn fragrant and lightly golden without burning. Pour in 1 cup of dry white wine, stirring gently for 1 minute to deglaze the pan and release the herb aromas. Slowly add 2 1/2 cups of chicken stock and 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld into a rich, aromatic sauce.
- Cook the Sausages in the Tomato Mixture: Add the sausages directly to the simmering tomato sauce. Keep the heat at medium to maintain a gentle simmer, ensuring the sauce bubbles softly around the sausages. Stir occasionally, but carefully, to avoid breaking the sausages. Continue cooking for 8–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the sausages reaches 145°F (62°C). Once fully cooked, remove the saucepan from heat and set aside. The sausages should be plump, juicy, and infused with the savory tomato-herb base.
- Sauté the Peppers and Onions: While the sausages are cooking, place a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat and allow it to preheat for about 3 minutes. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat until shimmering. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onions along with 1 teaspoon kosher salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, for 12–14 minutes until they soften, release their natural sweetness, and start to lightly caramelize around the edges. The vegetables should be tender but still retain some texture.
- Enhance the Aromatics: Add the remaining minced garlic to the softened pepper and onion mixture. Stir frequently for about 1 minute, allowing the garlic to release its aroma and blend with the caramelized vegetables. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can develop a bitter taste. At this stage, your kitchen should be filled with a rich, inviting scent of roasted peppers, onions, and garlic.
- Sear the Sausages for Added Flavor: Using tongs, carefully move the pepper and onion mixture to the edges of the skillet, creating a space in the center. Place the cooked sausages in this clearing. Sear the sausages over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes, flipping occasionally to develop golden-brown spots on all sides. While searing, stir the peppers and onions occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even browning. This step adds a slightly crispy texture and intensifies the sausage’s flavor.
- Combine the Sausage and Pepper Mixture: Take 1 cup of the tomato-sausage cooking liquid from the saucepan and pour it into the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly and evenly coats the vegetables. This will create a harmonious, rich filling that brings the sandwich together, ensuring every bite is saucy and flavorful. Remove the skillet from heat once the mixture reaches a consistency you like.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Take the 8-inch sub rolls and split them lengthwise, toasting them lightly if desired for extra crunch. Place one sausage in each bun. Evenly distribute the pepper and onion mixture over the sausages, making sure to spoon any remaining sauce from the skillet on top for maximum flavor. Serve immediately while hot, letting the colors, textures, and aromas shine in every bite.
- Optional Serving Tips: For added flair, sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or provolone cheese over the peppers and onions, or add a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of herbal freshness. This sandwich pairs well with a simple green salad or oven-roasted potato wedges for a complete, satisfying meal.
Notes
- Italian Herb Blend: Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary, sage, and marjoram. Fresh herbs can be substituted, but reduce the quantity to avoid overpowering the dish.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust the amount based on your heat preference. Mild varieties are perfect for subtle spice; hotter flakes will add a punch.
- Sausage Selection: Sweet or hot Italian sausages work. Choose high-quality sausages with minimal fillers for the best flavor and texture.
- Peppers and Onions: Slice uniformly for even cooking. Bell peppers can be mixed colors for visual appeal and sweetness balance.
- Cooking Liquid: Reserve part of the tomato-sausage mixture to add flavor and moisture to the peppers and onions when combining.
- Toasting Buns: Lightly toasting the sub rolls adds texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when filled with sauce.
Chef’s Secrets For Maximum Flavor
For an irresistible sandwich, layering flavors is key. Begin by gently browning the garlic, herbs, and fennel seeds in olive oil to release their essential oils, which forms the aromatic base.
Searing the sausages in the skillet after simmering adds caramelization, enhancing depth and complexity.
Stirring the cooked tomato mixture into the peppers allows the vegetables to soak up every bit of savory flavor.
Using a combination of colorful bell peppers not only adds sweetness but also visual appeal, making each bite as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
Serving Suggestions That Impress Instantly
These sandwiches shine when served hot and fresh.
For a classic pairing, a simple crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the rich flavors.
Roasted potato wedges or sweet potato fries make a hearty accompaniment.
For a gourmet twist, top the sandwiches with melted provolone or Parmesan, or add fresh basil leaves for a refreshing herbal note.
These sandwiches also work beautifully for meal prep; they can be served with a side of lightly dressed arugula or a bowl of seasonal soup for a complete, satisfying meal
Storage Tips To Keep Fresh
Leftovers store exceptionally well. Keep the cooked sausages and pepper mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
The flavors often intensify overnight, making for even tastier sandwiches the next day.
For longer storage, freeze the sausage and pepper mixture in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals to prevent the vegetables from becoming mushy.
Toast fresh rolls just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipe
1. Can I make this recipe ahead?
Yes! You can fully cook the sausages and peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble sandwiches just before serving to prevent the buns from becoming soggy.
2. Can I use chicken or turkey sausages instead?
Absolutely. Substitute with your preferred sausage, but note that leaner sausages may require slightly less cooking time to avoid drying out. Adjust seasoning to taste.
3. How can I reduce the spice?
Omit or reduce the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder sandwich. You can also choose sweet Italian sausage instead of hot for a gentler flavor.
4. Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes. Simply use gluten-free sub rolls or sandwich bread. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free, including the sausages, peppers, and sauce.
5. Can I add cheese or other toppings?
Yes! Melted provolone, mozzarella, or Parmesan can enhance the flavor. Fresh basil, arugula, or even roasted garlic aioli also make excellent toppings, elevating the sandwich to a gourmet level.
