This comforting, rustic dish brings together savory Italian sausage, sweet sautéed peppers and onions, and creamy garlic mashed potatoes in one satisfying plate. It’s the kind of hearty, homestyle meal that fills the kitchen with irresistible aromas and delivers bold, balanced flavors in every bite. The richness of the sausage pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the vegetables, while the smooth mashed potatoes create the perfect base to soak up all the delicious juices from the skillet.
Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage
2 bell peppers, sliced
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
4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsp butter
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients before cooking. Slice the bell peppers into even strips and slice the onion into thin wedges. Mince the garlic finely so it distributes evenly throughout the dish. Peel the potatoes and cut them into evenly sized cubes to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to warm gently until it shimmers but does not smoke.
- Add the Italian sausage to the skillet. Break it into smaller pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula as it cooks. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through. This step should develop a rich, golden-brown color on the meat, which enhances its flavor.
- Once the sausage is browned, add the sliced bell peppers and sliced onion directly into the skillet with the sausage. Stir well to combine. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and become tender. The peppers should become slightly glossy and the onions should turn translucent and lightly caramelized at the edges.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. Mix thoroughly so the herbs and garlic coat the sausage and vegetables evenly. Continue cooking for about one additional minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as this can create bitterness.
- While the sausage and vegetables are cooking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the cubed potatoes into a large pot and cover them with salted water. Ensure the water level is about an inch above the potatoes.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce slightly to maintain a steady boil and cook for approximately 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork without resistance.
- Carefully drain the potatoes in a colander, allowing all excess water to escape. Return the drained potatoes to the warm pot.
- Add the milk, butter, and grated Parmesan cheese to the potatoes. Mash thoroughly using a potato masher until smooth and creamy. Continue mashing until the butter is fully melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the consistency by mashing well to achieve a silky texture without lumps.
- To serve, spoon a generous portion of the garlic mashed potatoes onto each plate, spreading them slightly to create a base. Top with a hearty serving of the sausage, peppers, and onions, allowing some of the flavorful juices from the skillet to spoon over the potatoes.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Kcal: 640 kcal
Servings: 4 servings
This dish offers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and aromatic flavors. The herb-infused sausage and tender vegetables provide bold character, while the mashed potatoes add comfort and richness, making it ideal for family dinners or cozy evenings at home.