There’s something so comforting about a plate of sausage and peppers. The savory flavors of the sausage combined with the sweetness of the peppers make for a dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The best part? Making it in the air fryer cuts down on the cooking time, while still delivering that caramelized perfection we all crave. I love how quick and easy this recipe is, plus it’s packed with flavor—perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering.
If you haven’t tried cooking sausage and peppers in the air fryer yet, you’re in for a treat! The air fryer does wonders in creating a crispy exterior on the sausage while keeping it juicy inside. The peppers and onions get a delightful char, making the whole dish come together beautifully with minimal effort. Ready to make your own? Let’s dive right into what you need and how to make this delicious recipe!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Sausages: Sausages are the star of this dish! Whether you prefer Italian sausage, bratwurst, or any other variety, they bring a savory, flavorful foundation. I recommend using uncooked sausages, as they will cook perfectly in the air fryer, becoming nice and crispy on the outside.
Bell Peppers: A colorful mix of bell peppers (red, green, yellow) adds a sweet, tender texture that complements the richness of the sausages. These peppers cook quickly and caramelize nicely in the air fryer, adding both color and sweetness to the dish.
Onions: Onions bring a savory depth of flavor to this dish. They become wonderfully soft and slightly caramelized in the air fryer, making them a perfect pairing with the peppers and sausages.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle of olive oil helps to enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and sausages while ensuring they don’t stick to the air fryer basket. Plus, it adds a hint of richness to the dish.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is a must for adding that unmistakable garlicky kick without the need for fresh garlic. It infuses the sausage and veggies with a savory warmth.
Italian Seasoning: A pinch of Italian seasoning rounds out the dish with herbs like oregano and basil, giving the whole meal an aromatic, Mediterranean flair.
Ingredients List
- 4 uncooked sausages (your choice of type)
- 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, and green), sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Air Fryer Sausage and Peppers
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
First, slice your bell peppers and onion into strips. Drizzle them with olive oil and toss with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to coat evenly. Make sure the sausages are ready to go as well, either whole or sliced into smaller pieces, depending on your preference.
Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. This ensures that the sausages will cook evenly and get that perfect crispy texture.
Step 3: Cook the Sausages
Place the sausages in the air fryer basket. Cook them for 12-15 minutes, turning them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and fully cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 160°F or 71°C).
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
While the sausages are cooking, toss the peppers and onions in the olive oil and seasoning. Once the sausages are done, remove them from the air fryer basket and add the peppers and onions. Cook for 8-10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they’re tender and slightly caramelized.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Slice the sausages and toss them back into the air fryer basket with the peppers and onions for a final 2 minutes of cooking to meld all the flavors. Serve hot with your favorite sides or over rice, pasta, or in a hoagie bun for a sausage sandwich!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Mix and Match Sausages: Don’t feel limited to just one type of sausage. Mixing flavors, like spicy Italian and sweet sausage, gives a nice contrast and depth to the dish.
- Use a Liner for Easy Cleanup: If you’re worried about cleanup, consider using a parchment paper liner in your air fryer to catch any drips or juices.
- Add a Kick: For some extra heat, add red pepper flakes to the seasoning or swap in spicy sausage.
- Serve with a Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of roasted potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh salad.
FAQs
Can I use frozen sausages? Yes, you can use frozen sausages, but they may need a few extra minutes in the air fryer to cook through. Be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Can I substitute the bell peppers? Absolutely! You can substitute with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even eggplant. Just make sure to slice them thin so they cook evenly.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat the dish in the air fryer or microwave to enjoy later.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While this dish is best served fresh, you can prep the sausages and veggies ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Just cook them on the day you plan to serve.