Spicy Sausage & Peppers with Herbed Polenta Recipe

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 35 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 55 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 180  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This Spicy Sausage & Peppers with Herbed Polenta is a comforting Italian-inspired dinner featuring tender slices of sausage sautéed with bell peppers, onions, and a touch of spice. Served over creamy, herbed polenta, this dish balances bold, savory flavors with a smooth, buttery base. It’s a hearty yet elegant meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.

Ingredients
    For the Sausage & Peppers
  • 450 g sausage (chicken, turkey, or beef), cut into 1-inch slices
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large red bell pepper, sliced into strips
  • 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
  • 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced into strips
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
  • 0.5 tsp salt (or to taste)
  • 120 ml tomato passata (or canned crushed tomatoes)
  • 60 ml vegetable stock (or water)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
    • For the Herbed Polenta
  • 180 g (1 cup) polenta (coarse cornmeal)
  • 750 ml water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
  • 50 g grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
    Prepare the Vegetables
  1. 1
    Wash and slice the peppers into even strips and thinly slice the onion. Mince the garlic. Having all vegetables prepped ensures even cooking and prevents overcooking the sausage.
    2. Cook the Sausage
  2. 2
    Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage slices and brown them on both sides for 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
    3. Sauté the Vegetables
  3. 3
    In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Add onions and peppers. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and develop slight caramelization.
    4. Add Garlic & Spices
  4. 4
    Stir in minced garlic, chili flakes, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
    5. Combine Sausage & Sauce
  5. 5
    Return the browned sausage to the pan. Stir in tomato passata and vegetable stock. Lower the heat to medium, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and flavors meld.
    6. Make the Polenta
  6. 6
    Meanwhile, bring water (or broth) and salt to a gentle boil in a saucepan. Gradually whisk in polenta to prevent lumps. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for 20–25 minutes until thick and creamy.
    7. Enrich & Season the Polenta
  7. 7
    Stir in butter and Parmesan cheese (if using). Add chopped basil and parsley. Mix well, then let it rest covered for 5 minutes before serving.
    8. Assemble & Serve
  8. 8
    Spoon a generous portion of creamy herbed polenta onto each plate. Top with the sausage and peppers mixture. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Note

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Polenta may firm up; reheat with a splash of broth or water.

Variations:

  • Add zucchini or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
  • Use polenta fries or grilled polenta slices instead of creamy polenta.
  • For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce or sliced fresh chili.
Keywords: spicy sausage recipe, sausage and peppers, herbed polenta, Italian comfort food
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/spicy-sausage-peppers-with-herbed-polenta-recipe/