Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, and truth be told, it might taste even better the next day. That is how Southern flavors settle and sing. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze portions for later.

Do I need to brown the sausage first?

No, but it helps. Browning creates those caramelized bits that add depth. If you are rushed, toss everything into the slow cooker and let time do the work.

What kind of sausage should I use?

Use what you love. Sweet Italian gives a gentle warmth. Hot Italian brings spice. Smoked sausage gives a deeper, rounder flavor. Taste the sausage on its own if you can and adjust seasoning after it has cooked.

How do I prevent the peppers from turning to mush?

Cook on low and avoid an overly long high-heat finish. Peppers will soften, but cooking gently on low preserves a tender, yielding texture instead of a total collapse.

Can I use other vegetables?

Yes. Mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant all work well if added at the right time. Add more delicate vegetables toward the end so they hold some texture. These FAQs come from countless evenings of cooking and listening. They are practical, honest, and meant to help you feel confident as you make this for your family.

Easy Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers 2026

Name: Slow Cooker Sausage and Peppers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, sliced; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 teaspoons Italian herbs; Salt and pepper to taste; Hoagie rolls or pasta for serving

Description

A comforting Southern dish featuring Italian sausage, peppers, and marinara, slow-cooked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound Italian sausage
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, sliced
2 cups marinara sauce
2 teaspoons Italian herbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Hoagie rolls or pasta for serving

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Instructions

Place the sausage, sliced bell pepper, and onion in a slow cooker.
Pour marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the peppers are tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve in hoagie rolls, over pasta, or in wraps.

Notes

Browning the sausage adds extra flavor. You can use sweet or hot sausage based on your preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 440
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 800mg
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Cholesterol: 60mg