Name: Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 4 mild or spicy Italian sausages; 4 buns or rolls of choice; 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper thinly sliced; 1 yellow onion thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt & ground black pepper to season (about ½ teaspoon each); ½ cup marinara sauce or your favorite store bought sauce; ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh basil for garnish if desired

If you're craving a hearty, flavorful sandwich that screams summer BBQ vibes, this Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is your new go-to. Juicy sausages paired with perfectly charred peppers and melty cheese make every bite unforgettable.

The image shows four hot dogs placed close to each other on a white marbled surface. Each hot dog has a soft, split bun with a browned sausage inside. On top of the sausages, there is a layer of grilled red, yellow, and orange bell peppers mixed with caramelized onions, giving a colorful and slightly charred look. Lastly, a drizzle of white creamy sauce is spread over the vegetables and sausage, adding contrast to the vibrant colors. Some lemon wedges and grilled pepper pieces are scattered around the hot dogs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I love how easy yet impressive this grilled Italian sausage and peppers recipe is—perfect for weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. It’s the kind of meal that feels cozy and fresh all at once.

Simplicity meets flavor: Just a handful of ingredients deliver big taste with minimal fuss.
Perfectly grilled: Juicy sausage and tender, charred veggies bring that satisfying smoky goodness.
Customizable: Easy to swap mild or spicy sausages depending on your heat preference.
Quick prep and cook: Ready in just 30 minutes, great for busy evenings.

Ingredients & Why They Work

Shopping for this recipe? Choose fresh, firm bell peppers and quality Italian sausages—they really make a difference in flavor. Using a good marinara sauce also adds that rich tomato kick that ties everything together.

Flat lay of four fresh Italian sausages with natural casings, a small pile of thinly sliced red bell pepper strips, a small pile of thinly sliced yellow bell pepper strips, a small pile of thinly sliced yellow onion rings, a small white ceramic bowl with golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl of bright red marinara sauce, a small handful of shredded mozzarella cheese on a white plate, four soft golden buns arranged neatly, and a few sprigs of fresh green basil leaves, all placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Mild or spicy Italian sausages: The star of the show, offering juicy, seasoned flavor; mild is great for kids or sensitive palates, spicy adds a punch.
Buns or rolls of choice: Soft, warm bread completes the sandwich and soaks up all those delicious juices.
Red bell pepper: Adds sweetness and vibrant color to balance savory sausage.
Yellow bell pepper: Brings mild sweetness and helps create that classic sausage and pepper combo.
Yellow onion: Adds subtle earthiness and caramelizes beautifully when grilled.
Olive oil: Coats the veggies for perfect grilling and a little extra flavor.
Salt & ground black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance natural flavors.
Marinara sauce: Packed with tomato and herb goodness, it elevates the sausage and veggies.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy perfection to make the sandwich irresistible.
Fresh basil: Optional garnish that adds a fragrant, fresh finish.

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Note: You'll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

One of the best things about this Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste buds or dietary needs. Whether you like it spicy, mild, loaded with veggies, or lightened up, there’s room to play.

Spicy Upgrade: I love swapping mild sausages for spicy Italian sausages when I’m craving a little extra kick. It adds a great depth of flavor and heat to the sandwich that really wakes up your palate.
Vegetarian Swap: For a meatless twist, you can grill hearty plant-based sausages instead—just check the brand’s grilling instructions. You won’t miss a thing with the smoky, grilled peppers and melted mozzarella.
Seasonal Veggie Boost: Try adding grilled zucchini or mushrooms with the peppers and onions during warmer months. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate seasonal fresh produce and add even more texture.
Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with provolone, fontina, or even a sharp cheddar to melt on top. Each cheese brings a unique flavor profile that changes the vibe of your sandwich.
Low-Fat Option: Using turkey Italian sausages and reduced-fat mozzarella cuts calories and fat but keeps the flavor satisfying and the meal balanced.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe

A grilled sausage placed inside a soft, light brown bun serves as the base layer. On top, there are sautéed red and yellow bell pepper strips mixed with slightly charred onion slices, adding a mix of orange, red, and white colors with a shiny texture. A thin drizzle of white sauce flows over the peppers and sausage, with small fresh green basil leaves scattered around. Beside the sandwich, there are several pieces of grilled potato wedges with a crispy, speckled brown surface. The whole dish is placed on white crumpled parchment paper inside a silver wire basket, set on a white marbled surface with a soft gray cloth partially visible underneath. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Step 1: Warm Up Your Grill

First things first, heat your grill to a medium temperature. Aim for a nice, steady heat—not too hot to avoid burning but hot enough to get those beautiful grill marks on the sausages. This usually takes about 10 minutes, depending on your grill.

Step 2: Prep the Colorful Veggies

While the grill is heating up, thinly slice your red and yellow bell peppers along with a yellow onion. Toss these vibrant veggies in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper. This simple seasoning really lets their natural flavors shine through while grilling. Set the bowl aside as you get started with the sausage.

Step 3: Grill Those Juicy Sausages

Place the sausages directly on the grill grates and cook them for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they’re nicely browned, firm to the touch, and cooked through (internal temperature around 160°F). Once cooked, move them to a plate and tent with foil to keep warm, or pop them on the cooler side of the grill over indirect heat.

Step 4: Char Those Peppers and Onions

Next, add your seasoned peppers and onions to a grill basket and set it over medium heat on the grill. Toss them frequently to get even charring and softening, about 7 to 10 minutes. You’re aiming for tender, slightly crisp veggies with a beautiful smoky flavor that perfectly complements the sausage.

Step 5: Build Your Perfect Sandwich

Place one sausage inside each bun or roll. Top generously with your grilled peppers and onions, then spoon on about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce. Sprinkle ½ cup of shredded mozzarella evenly over the top for that ooey-gooey finish.

Step 6: Melt That Cheese to Perfection

Pop your assembled sandwiches back onto the grill over indirect medium-high heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Alternatively, use your oven’s broiler for 1 to 2 minutes. Keep a close eye as the mozzarella melts into a bubbly, gooey topping—you don’t want it to brown too much or burn.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve Warm

Finish off with a few fresh basil leaves for a bright, herbal note. Serve these warm sandwiches immediately and watch them disappear—guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser with minimal effort!

Top Tip

These tips are based on years of grilling experience and will help you get the most delicious results from your Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe every time.

Perfect Searing: Make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium heat before adding sausages—the steady heat ensures juicy sausages with a beautiful char, not burnt or undercooked spots.
Even Veggie Cooking: Toss your peppers and onions frequently in the grill basket; I learned this helps them cook evenly and get those irresistible grill marks without burning.
Cheese Melting Magic: When melting the mozzarella on your assembled sandwich, use indirect medium-high heat on the grill or the oven broiler. This melts the cheese perfectly without drying out the buns.
Keep It Warm: After grilling, tent the sausages with foil or place over indirect heat on the grill. This little step keeps them warm and juicy while you finish the veggies and assemble.

How to Serve Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe

A silver baking tray holds four neat rows of food items arranged from top to bottom. The first row has purple onion halves and slices, layered from left to right with smooth, shiny textures and white inner rings contrasted by deep purple outer layers. The second row features whole and halved red and yellow bell peppers, displaying glossy, smooth skins with vibrant red and yellow colors. The third row has more yellow and orange bell peppers, some whole and some hollowed out, showing their shiny, textured insides. The last row consists of five golden-brown hot dog buns lined up horizontally, one of which is open revealing its soft, fluffy white inside. The background surface is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves add a bright, fragrant finish to these sandwiches — I love the way their herbal aroma pairs with the savory sausage and melted mozzarella. For a little extra kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle a touch of balsamic glaze on top. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese can also add a lovely depth if you want more cheesy flavor.

Side Dishes

This hearty sandwich pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad with vinaigrette, garlic roasted potatoes, or a light pasta salad. For a fun twist, serve with grilled corn on the cob brushed with herbed butter or a tangy coleslaw to complement the smoky, savory flavors of the sausage and peppers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled Italian sausages, peppers, and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3-4 days, making for an easy next-day meal or snack.

Freezing

If you'd like to freeze leftovers, arrange the cooled sausages and grilled veggies in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will stay good for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat to bring back that fresh-grilled flavor. Alternatively, warming in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes works well. Assemble your sandwich and add fresh marinara and mozzarella, then use your broiler for a quick melt before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other types of sausages for this recipe?

Absolutely! While Italian sausages are traditional and flavorful, you can try bratwurst, chorizo, or even chicken sausages. Just adjust the cooking times based on the thickness and type of sausage.

What if I don't have a grill basket for the veggies?

No worries! You can use a piece of aluminum foil with a few holes poked in it to allow smoke and heat through while keeping the vegetables contained. Alternatively, grill the veggies in a grill pan or even on skewers.

Can I prepare this recipe indoors without a grill?

Yes! You can cook the sausages and vegetables using a stovetop grill pan or a regular skillet. Just follow the same cooking times and techniques to get a nicely charred and tender result.

How spicy is this Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe?

The spice level depends on the sausages you choose. Mild Italian sausages offer gentle warmth, while spicy ones add a noticeable kick. You can customize the heat by selecting your preferred sausage type and adding crushed red pepper if desired.

Final Thoughts

This Grilled Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser — simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for weekend cookouts. Whether you’re grilling for family or friends, the perfect blend of smoky sausage, tender charred peppers, melty cheese, and fresh basil will always hit the spot. I hope these tips and ideas inspire you to make this dish your own and enjoy every flavorful bite!