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Low Carb Sausage & Peppers - A Simple, Satisfying Skillet Meal

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Sausage: 1 to 1.25 pounds of Italian sausage links (pork, chicken, or turkey; choose mild or hot)
  • Bell peppers: 3 large (any mix of red, yellow, orange, or green)
  • Onion: 1 large yellow or sweet onion
  • Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: 1–2 tablespoons
  • Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon (optional, for richer flavor; still low carb in this small amount)
  • Red pepper flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (optional, for heat)
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
  • Dried basil: 1/2 teaspoon
  • Salt and black pepper: to taste
  • Apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar: 1–2 teaspoons (optional, for brightness; choose balsamic sparingly if very strict low carb)
  • Fresh parsley: a small handful, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Cauliflower rice or lettuce leaves: optional for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the produce. Slice the bell peppers into 1/2-inch strips. Cut the onion into thin wedges or slices. Mince the garlic. Pat the sausage links dry.
  2. Brown the sausage. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage links and cook until well browned on all sides, about 6–8 minutes. Transfer to a plate; they don’t need to be fully cooked yet.
  3. Sauté the veggies. In the same skillet, add another drizzle of oil if needed. Add the onions and peppers with a pinch of salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly caramelized, 8–10 minutes.
  4. Add aromatics. Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Boost the sauce. Push the veggies to the sides. Add the tomato paste to the center and cook it for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. Stir everything together.
  6. Finish the sausage. Slice the browned sausage into 1/2-inch pieces and return them to the pan. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook 5–7 minutes, until the sausage is cooked through and the flavors meld.
  7. Brighten and season. Stir in vinegar, then taste and adjust salt and pepper. If you want more heat, add another pinch of red pepper flakes.
  8. Serve. Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Enjoy on its own, over cauliflower rice, or in sturdy lettuce wraps.