Air Fryer Italian Sausage And Peppers Recipe

Craving a quick, yet irresistible meal that packs a flavorful punch? Let me introduce you to my go-to air fryer Italian sausage and peppers recipe—it’s a delicious symphony of spicy, savory goodness with a dash of simplicity, perfect for those busy weeknights when I want something hearty without all the hassle.

Anytime I’m feeling like I want a taste explosion, but I just don’t have the time to put together a whole meal, the air fryer comes to my rescue. And more often than not, the dish the air fryer and I work together to create is Italian sausage with peppers and onions.

Cooked with only a tablespoon of olive oil, this dish is light, and with the addition of garlic powder, oregano, and basil, it has Italian goodness written all over it.

Ingredients

• Italian Sausage: Protein-rich and flavorful, adds savory taste.
• Bell Peppers: High in vitamin C, provide sweetness and color.
• Onion: Adds depth and sweetness, rich in antioxidants.
• Olive Oil: Healthy fats, enhances dish flavor and aroma.
• Garlic Powder: Adds pungent flavor, boosts immune system.
• Dried Oregano: Herbaceous flavor, contains antioxidants and nutrients.
• Dried Basil: Sweet, aromatic herb, detoxifying properties.

Ingredient Quantities

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• 4 Italian sausage links (mild or spicy)
• 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color or a mix)
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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How to Make this

1. Set your air fryer to 380°F (193°C) and allow it to heat for approximately 5 minutes.

2. Combine the sliced bell peppers and onion with olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl while the air fryer is preheating. Toss until the vegetables are well-coated.

3. Put the Italian sausage links in the basket of the air fryer. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes.

4. Access the air fryer, rotate the sausages, and position the well-spiced bell peppers and onions right next to the sausages.

5. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, with the basket being shaken halfway through, and ensure the sausages reach 160°F (71°C) on the inside and that the vegetables have reached a state of tenderness. This will serve as your finishing step.

6. A meat thermometer guarantees that the sausages are cooked all the way through. If you’re unsure, give them an extra 2 to 3 minutes on the heat.

7. Once done, take the sausages and vegetables out of the air fryer with care.

8. Allow the sausages to sit for a couple of minutes after cooking, but before slicing. This will help retain juicy goodness.

9. On a platter, serve the sausages that you have sliced, along with the bell peppers and onions that you have cooked.

10. Savor your air fryer Italian sausage and peppers as a principal dish or stuffed into sandwiches.

Equipment Needed

1. Air fryer
2. Large mixing bowl
3. Measuring spoons
4. Tongs
5. Kitchen thermometer (meat thermometer)
6. Knife
7. Cutting board
8. Platter for serving

FAQ

• Q:Is it permissible to use an alternate kind of sausage? A: It is permissible, and acceptable, to use chicken or turkey sausage as a substitute for Italian sausage in this recipe. Both types of sausage are less fatty, and therefore healthier.
• Q:How do I keep the vegetables from getting too tender?
  A: Make sure the air fryer has good airflow, which can be achieved by evenly slicing the vegetables and not overcrowding them in the fryer.
• Q:Can the sausages and peppers be made in advance? A: The vegetables can be sliced ahead of time, but the sausages are best cooked just before serving for optimal taste and texture.
• Q:What is the cooking time for sausages and peppers in the air fryer? A: Usually, you need to allow about 15-18 minutes at 375°F (190°C), shaking the basket halfway through.
• Q:Can I include additional vegetables in this recipe? A: You can definitely do that! Great additions are mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes.
• Q:Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer? A: Preheating the air fryer for a few minutes can help cooking results be more even. While not required, this practicing makes sense.
• Q:What can I serve alongside this dish? A: It goes nicely with some nice, crusty bread, over pasta, or on a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Air Fryer Italian Sausage And Peppers Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Links of Italian sausage: Use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Bell peppers: If you want a spicier kick, try using poblano peppers.
Onion: Different flavor profiles can be achieved by using red onion or shallots.
Avocado oil or grapeseed oil can be used in place of olive oil.
Dried oregano. You may use fresh oregano instead, but adjust the amount based on your taste.

Pro Tips

1. Pre-Cut the Vegetables To save time, you can pre-slice the bell peppers and onion the night before. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, making it easy to throw everything together when you’re ready to cook.

2. Customize Your Sausages If you prefer more flavor, consider using a mix of different types of Italian sausages, such as a combination of mild, spicy, and sweet varieties. This will add a depth of flavor to your dish.

3. Experiment with Additional Vegetables Add some variety by including additional vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini slices. These will cook well with the existing ingredients and add more texture and flavor to the dish.

4. Add Fresh Herbs After Cooking For an extra burst of fresh flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley over the dish just before serving. This will enhance the taste and add a nice color contrast.

5. Separation Strategy If you want to ensure your vegetables remain perfectly cooked and not too soft, you can cook the sausages for the first half of their time directly in the basket. Only add the vegetables halfway through, ensuring they reach the desired level of doneness without overcooking.