When it comes to comfort food, there are few dishes that can rival the joy of a warm, savory Sausage and Peppers Slider. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, hosting a weekend party, or just craving something hearty and satisfying, this recipe ticks all the boxes. With succulent sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a tangy sauce, all nestled between soft slider buns, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.
In this post, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about making these delicious sliders, from the ingredients to step-by-step instructions. Plus, I’ll share some tips, variations, and storage advice to ensure your Sausage and Peppers Sliders are a hit every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Sausage and Peppers Sliders are the ultimate comfort food—savory, satisfying, and full of flavor. This recipe is perfect for:
- Quick Weeknight Dinners: With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, you can whip up these sliders in no time, making them perfect for busy evenings.
- Party Appetizers: These sliders are the ideal party food! They’re bite-sized, easy to eat, and can be served in large batches to satisfy a crowd.
- Family Meals: The whole family will love the combination of juicy sausage, caramelized peppers, and melty cheese. It’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty sandwich or a fun appetizer, Sausage and Peppers Sliders are guaranteed to impress.
How to Make Sausage and Peppers Sliders
If you’re in the mood for a delicious and easy-to-make meal, Sausage and Peppers Sliders are the perfect choice. Combining savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and melted cheese on a soft slider bun, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a party, these sliders are simple, flavorful, and sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make these sliders step by step, provide tips for making them even better, and share variations to personalize the dish to your liking. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Sausage and Peppers Sliders
Before you begin, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy) – Choose your preferred heat level for the sausage.
- 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green) – Thinly sliced.
- 1 large onion – Thinly sliced.
- 3 cloves garlic – Minced.
- Slider buns – Soft and fresh buns work best for this recipe.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing the veggies and sausage.
- 1 tsp dried oregano – Adds great flavor to the sausage mixture.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, for a touch of heat.
- 1 cup marinara sauce – Store-bought or homemade.
- 1 cup provolone cheese – Shredded, to melt on top.
- Salt and pepper – For seasoning to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (removed from its casing) to the skillet and break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and dried oregano as the sausage cooks. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and starting to caramelize. The garlic will become fragrant and the peppers and onions will soften. Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic.
Step 3: Combine the Sausage and Peppers
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir to combine, ensuring the sausage is evenly distributed throughout the peppers and onions. Add the marinara sauce and let everything simmer together for an additional 5 minutes. The sauce will help bring everything together, infusing the sausage and peppers with a rich, flavorful taste.
Step 4: Assemble the Sliders
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Slice the slider buns in half, and place the bottom halves on a baking sheet. Spoon the sausage and pepper mixture onto the bottom half of each bun. Add a generous amount of shredded provolone cheese on top of the sausage and peppers. Place the top halves of the buns over the cheese.
Step 5: Bake the Sliders
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the buns are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The sliders should be warm and ready to serve!
Serving and Storing Leftovers
How to Serve Sausage and Peppers Sliders
Serve your sliders hot and fresh out of the oven. You can serve them as a main dish for dinner or cut them into smaller pieces to serve as appetizers at a party. Pair them with crispy French fries, a side salad, or some roasted vegetables to complete the meal.
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, don’t worry—they store well for later. Wrap the sliders in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted again and the sliders are heated through.
Tips and Variations
Here are some helpful tips and ideas to elevate your Sausage and Peppers Sliders:
- Try Different Sausages: If you’re not a fan of Italian sausage, you can substitute it with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a different twist.
- Add Spice: For an extra kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or mix in some sliced jalapeños for added heat.
- Different Cheese Options: Provolone is a classic choice, but you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, or gouda. Each cheese will bring a different flavor profile to the sliders.
- Make It Sweet: If you prefer a sweeter flavor, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or use a sweeter marinara sauce.
How do you keep sausage and peppers warm?
To keep sausage and peppers warm, there are several methods you can use to ensure the dish stays at the right temperature while you serve or transport it. Here are some effective ways to keep sausage and peppers warm:
1. Use a Slow Cooker
One of the best ways to keep sausage and peppers warm for an extended period is by using a slow cooker (also known as a crockpot). Set the slow cooker to the “keep warm” setting, and it will maintain a safe temperature without overcooking the dish. This is especially helpful for serving large groups or when you’re entertaining.
2. Cover with Aluminum Foil and Use the Oven
If you don’t have a slow cooker, you can keep sausage and peppers warm in the oven. After cooking, transfer the dish to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Set the oven to a low temperature, around 200-250°F (90-120°C), to keep the food warm without further cooking it. Just be sure to check occasionally to make sure the temperature stays steady.
3. Use a Chafing Dish or Buffet Warmer
If you’re hosting a party or a buffet, a chafing dish is an excellent option for keeping sausage and peppers warm. These dishes use either a candle or electric heat to maintain the food at the proper serving temperature. They are designed to keep food warm for long periods and are ideal for gatherings.
4. Thermal Food Containers
For smaller portions or if you need to transport the dish, thermal food containers can be a great option. These containers are designed to keep food hot for hours. Simply transfer the sausage and peppers into the thermal container, and it will stay warm until you’re ready to serve.
Can you cook sausage links ahead of time?
Cook the Sausage Links:
- Pan-frying: Heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage links and cook them until browned on all sides and fully cooked through, usually about 12-15 minutes.
- Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sausage links on a baking sheet, and bake for 20-25 minutes, turning them halfway through to ensure even cooking.
- Grilling: Preheat the grill to medium heat. Place the sausage links on the grill and cook for about 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally.
Cool the Sausage: Once the sausages are fully cooked, remove them from the heat and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. This will help prevent them from becoming soggy when stored.
Conclusion
Sausage and Peppers Sliders are a delicious and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a party, or just looking for a satisfying snack, these sliders will be a hit. With simple ingredients and tons of room for customization, you’ll be able to make a version that fits your tastes perfectly. Enjoy!
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Happy cooking!
