Rustic ItalianSausage

Rustic Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions over Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Engaging Description
Indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Italy with this rustic Italian Sausage with Peppers and Onions over Garlic Mashed Potatoes. This dish is a perfect blend of savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and aromatic onions, all served atop a bed of creamy, garlicky mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week, bringing a touch of Italian countryside charm to your table.

Ingredients Overview
Here’s a closer look at the ingredients that make this dish so special:

Italian Sausage (1 lb): The star of the dish, offering a rich, savory flavor. Opt for sweet or spicy sausage depending on your preference.
Bell Peppers (2, sliced): Adds vibrant color and a sweet, mild flavor. Red, yellow, or green bell peppers work well.
Large Onion (1, sliced): Balances the sweetness of the peppers with its own mild, sweet taste.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp): A staple in Italian cooking, used to sauté the sausage and vegetables.
Dried Basil (1 tsp): Adds a sweet, aromatic note.
Dried Oregano (1 tsp): Brings a slightly bitter, earthy flavor that complements the sausage.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Potatoes (4 large, peeled and cubed): The base for the creamy mashed potatoes.
Milk (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
Butter (2 tbsp): Provides richness and smooth texture to the mashed potatoes.
Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Adds a savory, nutty flavor to the mashed potatoes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into pieces as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 2: Cook the Peppers and Onions
Add the bell peppers and onion to the skillet with the sausage. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Garlic and Herbs
Stir in the minced garlic, dried basil, and dried oregano. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low and let the flavors meld together while you prepare the mashed potatoes.

Step 4: Boil the Potatoes
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

Step 5: Make the Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Mash the potatoes with milk, butter, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
To serve, spoon the garlic mashed potatoes onto plates and top with the sausage, peppers, and onions mixture. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs if desired.

Valuable Tips
Tip 1: Use fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant flavor. Substitute 1 tablespoon of fresh basil and oregano for the dried herbs. Tip 2: For a lighter option, use chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork sausage. Tip 3: Ensure the potatoes are completely tender before mashing to achieve the smoothest texture. Tip 4: Adding a splash of chicken broth to the mashed potatoes can enhance the flavor and add moisture. Tip 5: Sauté the garlic before adding it to the mashed potatoes for an even richer garlic flavor.

Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. For the mashed potatoes, add a splash of milk before reheating to restore their creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions