Sausage and Pepper Skewers

Why These Sausage and Pepper Skewers Are a Summer Favorite

Father’s Day is almost here, and these sausage and pepper skewers are the perfect way to celebrate Dad. My husband Josh grills them all summer long. It’s his favorite meal to make. He usually does all the work, but this year we’re flipping the script and making them for him. Caleb probably won’t help with the cooking, but I’m sure he’d love to have a sword fight with the skewers if I let him.

Caleb loves sausage just like his dad. Josh prefers spicy Italian sausage, but he always sets aside a few mild ones for Caleb, who isn’t into heat yet. These skewers are quick, easy, and full of smoky flavor from the grill. They’re a staple in our summer rotation.

Why You’ll Love These Grilled Sausage Skewers

• Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish, perfect for busy weeknights.
• The combination of smoky sausage, charred bell peppers, and sweet grilled onion is hard to beat.
• Easy to customize with your favorite sausage variety or extra veggies.

Key Ingredients for Sausage and Pepper Skewers

• Italian sausage, Choose spicy or mild depending on your heat preference. The links hold together well on the skewer and stay juicy on the grill. Look for fresh sausage, not pre-cooked.
• Bell peppers, A mix of red, yellow, and orange adds sweetness and a beautiful color. Green peppers work too, but they are slightly more bitter.
• Red onion, Grilling mellows its sharp bite and brings out natural sweetness. Cut into 1-inch chunks so they cook evenly with the sausage.

Kitchen Tools for Grilled Sausage Skewers

• Wooden skewers (8-inch), Soak them in water for 20 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
• Grill (gas or charcoal), Preheat to medium-high heat for the best char.
• Basting brush, For brushing olive oil onto the skewers.
• Tongs, For turning the skewers safely on the grill.

Tips for Making the Best Sausage and Pepper Skewers

Soak your wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes before grilling. This keeps them from burning up on the grill. Thread the sausage, peppers, and onion in an alternating pattern so everything cooks evenly. Brush the skewers with olive oil after threading, this helps the vegetables char without sticking to the grates. Turn the skewers every few minutes for even browning. The sausage is done when it reaches 160°F internally and the peppers are blistered, which takes about 13 to 15 minutes over medium-high heat.

Sausage and Pepper Skewer Variations to Try

Switch up the protein by using chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Vegetarian sausage works well too, just adjust the grilling time since they cook faster. Add more vegetables like zucchini rounds, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to the skewers. If you want more heat, use hot Italian sausage or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before grilling. For a different flavor profile, marinate the sausage and veggies in Italian dressing for 30 minutes before threading.

What to Serve with Sausage and Pepper Skewers

These skewers are great on their own, but they really shine when paired with a few simple sides. Serve them over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crusty bread to soak up the juices. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the smoky richness. For a heartier meal, tuck the sausage and peppers into a hoagie roll and top with provolone for a classic sausage and pepper sandwich. A side of marinara or chimichurri for dipping adds even more flavor.

How to Store Leftover Sausage and Pepper Skewers

Let the skewers cool completely, then remove the sausage and vegetables from the skewers. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually meld together nicely overnight, making leftovers great for lunch the next day.

Can You Freeze Sausage and Pepper Skewers?

Yes, you can freeze these skewers. Let them cool completely, then slide the sausage and peppers off the skewers. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Best Ways to Reheat Sausage and Pepper Skewers

For the best texture, reheat the sausage and peppers in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, turning occasionally, until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave, which can make the sausage rubbery and the peppers soggy.

Sausage and Pepper Skewers FAQs