Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers

Why This Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Sandwich Works So Well

We grill almost every night during the hot summer months, and this Italian sausage sandwich is one of Josh’s favorites. He prefers spicy sausage, but he always buys mild for the boys. He goes all out: serves the sausages, peppers, and onions in a bun with marinara sauce, melted mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. The smoky char from the grill gives the sausage a deep, savory flavor, and the sweet grilled peppers and onions balance it out. This summer meal takes 30 minutes tops.

Reasons to Love This Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe

• The smoky char from grilling gives the sausage a rich, savory flavor that you can’t get from pan-frying.
• Grilled peppers and onions add sweetness and a slight crunch, making every bite interesting.
• It’s a complete meal in a bun, no need for extra sides unless you want them.

Key Ingredients for the Best Italian Sausage Sandwich

• Italian sausages: Choose mild or spicy based on your heat preference. Look for links that are plump and evenly colored. Avoid pre-cooked sausages, raw links get the best char.
• Bell peppers: A mix of red and yellow adds sweetness and color. You can also use orange or green, but green is less sweet.
• Marinara sauce: Use your favorite jarred sauce or make a quick homemade version. It adds moisture and tangy tomato flavor to the sandwich.

Tools You’ll Need for Grilling Sausage and Peppers

• Outdoor grill or grill pan
• Grill basket (for the vegetables)
• Tongs (for turning sausages and veggies)
• Aluminum foil (for tenting sausages)

Tips for Grilling Italian Sausage and Peppers

Cook the sausages over medium heat, turning once, until they’re cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Use a grill basket for the peppers and onions so they don’t fall through the grates. Toss them often for even charring. To keep the sausages warm while the veggies finish, tent them with foil or move them to the cooler side of the grill.

Ways to Change Up This Italian Sausage Sandwich

Swap the pork sausages for chicken or turkey Italian sausage for a lighter option. If you want extra heat, use spicy sausage and add sliced jalapeños to the grill basket. For a different cheese, try provolone or fontina instead of mozzarella. You can also skip the bun and serve the sausage and peppers over pasta or polenta for a hearty dinner.

How to Serve Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers

You can serve the grilled sausage and peppers on their own as a main dish, or go all out and assemble the sandwich. Place each sausage in a bun, then pile on the grilled peppers and onions. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over the top, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, and melt the cheese under the broiler or on the grill with indirect heat. Finish with fresh basil. Serve warm with extra marinara on the side for dipping.

How to Store Leftover Grilled Sausage and Peppers

Let the sausages and veggies cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep for up to 4 days. Keep the buns separate so they don’t get soggy. Reheat the sausage and peppers in a skillet or microwave before assembling fresh buns.

Can You Freeze Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked sausages and grilled peppers and onions. Let them cool, then pack them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in a skillet or oven. Don’t freeze assembled sandwiches, the buns will get mushy.

Best Ways to Reheat Italian Sausage and Peppers

For the best texture, reheat the sausages and veggies in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or marinara sauce to keep them moist. Cover the pan to help the peppers soften again. You can also reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the sausage casing crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers