Rustic Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions over Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Warm, hearty, and bursting with Italian flavors, this Rustic Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions over Garlic Mashed Potatoes is the ultimate comfort food. The savory sausage paired with vibrant bell peppers and onions, served atop creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes, makes for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Ready in just an hour, this dish is as easy as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 640 kcal per serving
Ingredients
For the Sausage and Peppers:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (mix colors for a vibrant dish)
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed (Yukon Gold or Russet work great)
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage and Vegetables:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onion, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 10 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, and oregano. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm. - Make the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
While the sausage cooks, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the warmed milk, butter, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mash until smooth and creamy, adding more milk if needed for your desired consistency. Season with salt to taste. - Serve and Enjoy:
Spoon a generous portion of the garlic mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with the sausage, peppers, and onions mixture. Garnish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or fresh herbs, if desired, and serve immediately.
Tips for Success
- Customize the Heat: Use mild Italian sausage for a family-friendly dish or spicy sausage for a bold kick.
- Make it Colorful: Mix red, yellow, and green bell peppers for a vibrant presentation.
- Time-Saving Hack: Prep the potatoes and vegetables in advance to cut down on active cooking time.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to the potatoes if needed.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This rustic Italian dish combines simple ingredients with bold flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. The creamy garlic mashed potatoes provide the perfect base for the savory, herb-infused sausage and tender vegetables. It’s a one-pan meal (plus a pot for the potatoes!) that’s easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy.
Try this recipe for your next dinner and let the comforting aromas fill your kitchen! Have a twist on this classic? Share your thoughts in the comments below or tag us on social media with your creations.
Adapted from a classic Italian-inspired recipe, this dish brings rustic charm to your table with minimal effort.