Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions over Garlic Mashed Potatoes

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Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions over Garlic Mashed Potatoes

This dish is a cozy Italian-American classic that layers rustic flavors in the most comforting way. Sweet or spicy Italian sausages are browned until golden and simmered with a colorful mix of bell peppers, onions, and garlic in a savory tomato-wine sauce. Served over creamy garlic mashed potatoes, it’s a stick-to-your-ribs meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Sausage & Peppers:

  • 1 ½ lbs Italian sausage links (sweet, hot, or a mix)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced

  • 2 medium onions, sliced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes (or fire-roasted for more depth)

  • ½ cup dry red wine (or chicken broth)

  • 1 tsp dried oregano

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

  • 2 lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled & cubed

  • 4–5 cloves garlic, peeled

  • ½ cup whole milk (warm)

  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter

  • ¼ cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:

  1. Place potatoes and garlic cloves in a large pot, cover with salted water, and bring to a boil.

  2. Cook until potatoes are fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes.

  3. Drain well, then mash with butter, warm milk, and cream (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper. Cover and keep warm.

2. Cook the Sausage & Peppers:

  1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Brown the sausage links on all sides (they don’t need to be cooked through yet). Remove and set aside.

  2. In the same pan, add onions and peppers. Sauté until softened and slightly caramelized, about 7–8 minutes.

  3. Stir in garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant.

  4. Add wine, scraping up browned bits from the pan, then stir in crushed tomatoes. Season with salt and black pepper.

  5. Return sausages to the pan, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes until sausages are cooked through and sauce has thickened.

3. Assemble the Dish:

  • Spoon a generous portion of creamy garlic mashed potatoes onto each plate.

  • Top with sausage, peppers, onions, and sauce.

  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Serving Suggestions

  • Pair with a crusty loaf of Italian bread to mop up the sauce.

  • A glass of Chianti or Montepulciano makes the flavors sing.

  • For a lighter variation, serve over polenta or even buttered egg noodles.

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