Slow-Cooked Sausage Simmered To Perfection

Cooking hot sausages in a crock pot is a great way to make a simple, tasty meal with minimal effort. You can cook hot sausages in a crock pot for 4-6 hours on a low heat setting or 2-3 hours on a high heat setting. For best results, it is recommended to cook hot sausages on low heat for more tender sausages.

How long to cook hot Italian sausage in a crock pot

Ingredients

To cook hot Italian sausage in a crock pot, you will need the following ingredients:

• Hot Italian sausage links
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Bell peppers
• Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Method

There are two ways to make this recipe. One is by using a skillet and a slow cooker, and the other is by using only a slow cooker. However, the first option is recommended as the sausages will have a nice crust from sautéing them in the skillet. Here are the steps:

Skillet and Slow Cooker Method:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the sausage links to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they are browned.
• Place the sausages on a cutting board, slice them, and place them in the slow cooker.
• In the same skillet, add the onions and cook for about 2 minutes. If needed, add more olive oil and stir constantly. Then, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds before transferring the onions and garlic to the slow cooker.
• In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and cook for 2 minutes or until they turn golden. Transfer them to the slow cooker.
• In the slow cooker, add the bell peppers, tomato sauce, salt, and black pepper.
• Cover and cook on low for 5-6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the sausages are cooked through and tender.
• Top with fresh parsley before serving (optional).

Slow Cooker Only Method:

• Place the Italian sausage links, sliced bell peppers, and onions in the slow cooker.
• Stir in the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper.
• Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the sausages are cooked through and tender.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for hot Italian sausage in a crock pot will vary depending on the heat setting and your slow cooker model. On low heat, it will take 5-6 hours, and on high heat, it will take 3-4 hours. The sausages should be cooked through and tender when ready.

Serving Suggestions

Hot Italian sausage cooked in a crock pot can be served in several ways:

• On toasted hoagie rolls or crusty rolls with provolone or mozzarella cheese
• Over pasta, zucchini noodles, or rice
• With a side of cornbread, roasted vegetables, or a simple side salad
• On its own, straight out of the crock pot

Tips and Variations

• It is recommended to use uncooked Italian sausage in its casing for the best results.
• You can use either sweet or hot Italian sausage, depending on your preference for spice.
• For extra flavour, you can brown the sausages and onions before adding them to the slow cooker.
• If you want to add extra herbs or spices, try Italian seasoning, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, or dried herbs.
• This recipe can be made ahead of time and frozen for up to 3 months.

Enjoy your delicious crock pot hot Italian sausage!

How to serve crock pot hot Italian sausage

Crock Pot Italian sausage is a classic Italian-American comfort food dish. It is a warm, easy meal that can be served in several ways. Here are some ideas on how to serve crock pot hot Italian sausage:

Sandwiches

You can serve the sausages in sandwiches, such as hoagie rolls, Italian sandwich rolls, or "grinders". For an Italian-style sandwich, pile the sausages inside split and toasted hoagie buns. Top with Provolone cheese, arrange on a baking sheet, and broil until the cheese is melted and golden.

Over Rice or Pasta

The sausages can also be served over rice or pasta. For a healthier option, try zucchini noodles or a mix of spiralized zucchini and whole wheat spaghetti noodles.

As Part of a Platter

You can also serve the sausages as part of a platter, along with other Italian dishes such as Italian salad and baked mac and cheese.

On Their Own

Finally, the sausages can be enjoyed on their own, with a side of roasted vegetables.

How to store crock pot hot Italian sausage leftovers

To store crock pot hot Italian sausage leftovers, you can follow these simple steps:

Firstly, it is important to note that this dish should only be kept at room temperature for up to two hours before it needs to be refrigerated. If you have leftovers, it is best to store them in an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. This will ensure that your food stays fresh and safe to consume. The recommended time for storing leftovers in the refrigerator is around 3-4 days.

If you want to keep your crock pot hot Italian sausage for longer, you can also freeze it. Place the leftovers in a zip-top freezer bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Your sausages and peppers will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you're ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Can you freeze crock pot hot Italian sausage?

Yes, you can freeze crock pot hot Italian sausage. Freezing this dish is a great way to preserve leftovers or prepare meals in advance. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for freezing and storing crock pot hot Italian sausage:

Freezing Instructions:

• Allow the cooked sausage and sauce to cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Place the food in airtight containers or bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.
• Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 6 months.

Thawing and Reheating Instructions:

• Thaw the frozen sausage and sauce overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat the dish gently on the stove over low heat until heated through. You can also reheat it in the oven or microwave, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Storage Instructions:

• If you are not freezing the dish, cooked sausage and sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• For food safety, do not keep the dish at room temperature for more than 2 hours after cooking or reheating.

Tips:

• It is recommended to freeze the sausage and sauce together, but you can also freeze the cooked sausage links separately from the sauce.
• When freezing, use containers or bags specifically designed for freezer storage to ensure they can withstand the temperature and maintain food quality.
• To save space, consider using freezer bags and freeze the food flat, stacking them once frozen solid.
• When reheating, avoid boiling or overheating, as this can affect the texture and taste of the sausage.

How to cook hot Italian sausage in a crock pot from frozen

Ingredients

• 8 hot Italian sausage links
• 1 large green bell pepper
• 1 large yellow onion
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 8 fresh Italian sandwich rolls
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Chicken broth
• Spices (e.g. fennel seeds, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, red pepper flakes)

Optional Ingredients

• Wine (red or white)
• Provolone cheese
• Rice or pasta

Method

• Place the sauce ingredients into the crock pot and stir to combine. You can use either tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes, and add chicken broth, spices, salt, and pepper to taste.
• Add the frozen sausages, bell peppers, and onions to the crock pot. Stir everything together.
• Cover and cook on low for 6 hours, or on high for 1 1/2 hours and then on low for 4-5 hours. The sausages should be cooked through and tender, with an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Before serving, stir in the chopped basil.
• Serve the sausages and sauce on their own, or with Italian sandwich rolls, rice, or pasta. You can also add provolone cheese on top.

Frequently asked questions