If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and colorful freshness, look no further than this Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe. This one-pan wonder brings together smoky, spicy andouille sausage with sweet, tender bell peppers and caramelized onions, creating a harmony of tastes that is as comforting as it is exciting. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe offers a fantastic balance of textures and spices that will make it a permanent favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to making this dish sing. Each component contributes something special — from the rich spice of the andouille sausage to the vibrant sweetness of the peppers, and the aromatic hint of garlic and smoked paprika.
- Andouille Sausage: Use about 1 pound, sliced into 1-inch pieces; this sausage is packed with smoky, spicy flavors that are the heart of the dish.
- Olive Oil: Two tablespoons total, perfect for sautéing and bringing everything together with a light, silky texture.
- Bell Peppers: One each of red, yellow, and green, sliced; they add sweetness, color, and crunch when just tender.
- Onion: One large, sliced; caramelizes beautifully to bring depth and natural sweetness.
- Garlic: Three cloves, minced; this pungent little powerhouse adds a fragrant kick that livens up the dish.
- Smoked Paprika: Half a teaspoon contributes a warm, smoky undertone that complements the sausage perfectly.
- Cayenne Pepper (optional): Just a quarter teaspoon for a subtle heat boost, adjusting according to your spice preference.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- Dried Thyme: Half a teaspoon; adds an earthy herbal hint that balances the richness.
- Fresh Parsley or Cilantro: Chopped and used as garnish; adds a fresh burst of color and brightness.
- Sub Rolls or Hoagie Buns (optional): Four, if you want to transform this skillet meal into satisfying sandwiches.
How to Make Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
Start by heating one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and let it cook for 6 to 8 minutes. Turn the pieces occasionally to achieve a nice, golden-brown sear on all sides. This step unlocks the rich, smoky flavors and renders some fat that will carry through to the rest of the dish. Once cooked through, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside for now.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Sauté everything together for about 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften and begin to caramelize slightly. This combination builds a wonderful blend of sweetness and aroma that will perfectly complement the sausage.
Step 3: Season the Dish
Now it’s time to bring in the spices. Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat, dried thyme, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly with these seasonings. Let everything cook for another 1 to 2 minutes so the flavors can combine and become fragrant — this is where the magic develops!
Step 4: Combine the Sausage and Veggies
Return the cooked andouille sausage to the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the sautéed peppers and onions. Let the entire mixture cook together for an additional 3 to 4 minutes to reheat the sausage and allow the flavors to meld beautifully. At this point, your Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is almost ready to shine on the table.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your skillet dish warm, as is, or pile it into sub rolls or hoagie buns for a handheld feast. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or cilantro over the top to add a vibrant pop of green and a fresh contrast to the smoky sausage. Enjoy every bite of this perfectly balanced, flavorful meal.
How to Serve Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro adds not only a beautiful splash of color but also a bright, herbal note that cuts through the richness of the dish. For a touch of creaminess and tang, consider offering a dollop of sour cream or a light drizzle of a lemony vinaigrette on the side. These little extras make the flavors pop even more.
Side Dishes
This skillet recipe is quite a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with simple sides can elevate the experience. Fluffy white rice or warm, crusty bread are perfect choices for soaking up all the tasty juices. A crisp green salad with a citrus dressing offers a refreshing counterpoint, and creamy mashed potatoes can add extra comfort to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Turn your Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe into a colorful stuffed pepper dish by spooning the cooked mixture into halved bell peppers and baking them. Or use the sausage and pepper mixture as a savory topping for baked potatoes or pizza bases. This versatile recipe lends itself beautifully to different presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a fantastic option for meal prepping or quick lunches during the week.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes wonderfully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat leftovers, warm the skillet gently over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to ensure even warmth. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely, heating in 1-minute increments to avoid drying out the sausage or overcooking the peppers.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While andouille sausage provides a smoky, spicy kick that defines this recipe, you can substitute with other smoked or spicy sausages like chorizo or kielbasa. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to keep the balance of flavors.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe has a mild to moderate heat from the andouille sausage and optional cayenne pepper. You can easily adjust the spiciness by omitting the cayenne or adding more if you prefer a bolder kick.
Can I make this vegan or vegetarian?
You can recreate a vegetarian version by replacing the sausage with plant-based sausage alternatives or hearty mushrooms and adding extra spices for depth. The peppers and onions remain the star, so this dish can adapt well to different dietary preferences.
What wine pairs well with Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe?
A fruity red like Zinfandel or a medium-bodied white such as a Chardonnay complements the smoky and spicy flavors nicely. For non-alcoholic options, try a sparkling water infused with lemon or a lightly spiced iced tea.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
The dish itself is naturally gluten-free if you skip the sub rolls or ensure your sausage and seasonings are gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure, especially for processed ingredients like sausage.
Final Thoughts
This Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe is an absolute joy to make and eat — it brings warmth, vibrant colors, and bold flavors all in one skillet. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish promises satisfaction and a little touch of excitement on your plate. Give it a try soon and let those savory, smoky flavors brighten your table!
Print
Andouille Sausage and Peppers Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful and hearty dish featuring spicy andouille sausage sautéed with sweet bell peppers and onions, seasoned with smoked paprika and thyme. Perfect served on its own or in a toasted hoagie bun for a classic sausage and peppers sandwich. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe balances smoky, spicy, and savory flavors for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Sausage
- 4 andouille sausages (about 1 lb), sliced into 1-inch pieces
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Garnish & Serving
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 4 sub rolls or hoagie buns (for serving, if making sausage sandwiches)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the andouille sausage slices and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sausages are browned and cooked through. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and slightly caramelized.
- Season the Dish: Add the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper to the vegetables. Stir to coat evenly with the spices and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine the Sausage and Veggies: Return the cooked andouille sausage to the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to heat through and allow the flavors to combine.
- Serve: Serve the sausage and peppers hot, either on its own or in a sub roll/hoagie bun for a sausage sandwich. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper based on your preferred spice level or omit it for a milder dish.
- To make it a complete meal, serve with crusty bread, rice, or over pasta.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- For extra depth of flavor, you can deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine or broth after cooking the sausage.
- If preferred, substitute andouille sausage with other smoked sausages like kielbasa or chorizo.
