Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked sausages save even more time. Just brown them quickly for color and proceed with the recipe—they’ll work perfectly.

Do I have to use all three colors of bell pepper?

Not at all—a single color will do if that’s what you have. Using all three adds a little sweetness and a rainbow of color, but any combination works.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the hoagie rolls for your favorite gluten-free buns or rolls. Everything else is naturally gluten-free!

What are the best cheese options for this sub?

Provolone is a classic, thanks to its perfect melt and gentle sharpness. Havarti is extra creamy, and Swiss has a bit more tang. You can even layer a couple!

Italian Sub with Sausage and Peppers Recipe

Name: Italian Sub with Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 4 Italian sausages (in their casings); 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided; 1 large onion, cut in half vertically, then into ¼-inch slices; 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided; 3 bell peppers (green, red, yellow), seeded and cut into ¼-inch slices; 2 cloves garlic, pressed or minced; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 4 hoagie rolls; Grainy mustard, mayo, or pesto mayo (optional), for serving; Slices of white cheese (such as provolone, havarti, or Swiss)

Few things bring together the bold, satisfying flavors of Italy quite like a classic Italian Sub with Sausage and Peppers. If you’re searching for a hearty, soul-warming sandwich that practically cooks itself, this recipe checks every box. Perfect for busy evenings when time is tight but taste is non-negotiable, these subs deliver that crave-worthy combination of juicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and gooey melted cheese—all on a crusty, toasted hoagie roll. Every bite is a little celebration, balancing smoky, tangy, and savory notes in the most delightful way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortlessly Delicious: Minimal prep, one skillet, and just a few smart steps bring authentic Italian flavors right to your dinner table.
Quick and Convenient: In under an hour, you’re serving up a meal that feels like a treat but fits even the busiest weekday schedules.
Major Comfort Factor: That irresistible combo of sausage, peppers, onions, and melty cheese—need I say more?
Flexible and Crowd-Pleasing: These subs are endlessly adaptable, perfect for picky eaters, potlucks, or family dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the lineup for these subs—and each ingredient earns its place!

Italian Sausages (in casings): These are the heart of the sandwich; grab your favorite—mild or spicy.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: For sautéing and flavor; don’t be shy, this elevates everything.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth; slice thin for that iconic pepper-and-onion texture.
Kosher Salt: Essential for balancing flavors throughout the veggies.
Bell Peppers (green, red, yellow): A colorful trio—each brings its own subtle sweetness and gorgeous color.
Garlic: Use fresh—minced or pressed—for unbeatable aroma and zesty punch.
Red Pepper Flakes: Just a hint for the perfect edge of heat. Adjust to your spice preference.
Balsamic Vinegar: This is magic—adds a touch of tang to lift and brighten the whole skillet.
Hoagie Rolls: Go for sturdy, crusty rolls that hold all the filling without falling apart.
Condiments (grainy mustard, mayo, pesto mayo): Optional, but highly encouraged. They’re your ticket to creaminess and extra zing.
White Cheese Slices (Provolone, Havarti, or Swiss): Choose your favorite melty cheese—each brings a distinctive richness.

Tip: If you’re short on time, prep the peppers and onions ahead to make assembly a breeze.

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.

Variations

Don’t just follow the rules—make this recipe your own!

Spicy Twist: Choose hot Italian sausages and layer on extra red pepper flakes.
Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms or thinly sliced zucchini to the peppers and onions for extra heartiness.
Cheese Swap: Try smoked mozzarella or even cheddar for a new spin.
Bread Alternatives: Sub in ciabatta or a crusty baguette if hoagie rolls aren’t handy.
Pescatarian Version: Replace sausage with thick grilled portobello mushroom caps for a surprisingly savory alternative.

How to Make Italian Sub with Sausage and Peppers

Step 1: Brown the Sausages

Add the sausages to a large skillet with a splash of olive oil. Cook over medium heat, turning so all sides get deliciously browned and crisp—about 5–7 minutes. Once done, set aside and keep covered.

Step 2: Sauté Onions

In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil plus your sliced onions and a sprinkle of salt. Let them gently soften and turn golden, about 10 minutes. If they’re browning too fast, turn the heat down so they caramelize rather than burn.

Step 3: Add Peppers and Garlic

Stir in your array of bell peppers, minced garlic, remaining salt, and those all-important red pepper flakes. Sauté until the peppers are softened but with a hint of crunch left—about 10–15 minutes.

Step 4: Finish with Balsamic

Drizzle in balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan. Scrape up all those flavorful bits from the bottom—they’re pure gold!

Step 5: Return Sausage to Skillet

Nestle the sausages back into the pan, reduce the heat, and cover for just a few more minutes so everything melds together.

Step 6: Assemble the Subs

Toast your rolls (seriously—don’t skip this! The texture is worth it). Swipe on your favorite condiments, heap on the sausage and pepper mixture, and lay slices of cheese on top. Broil or toast until the cheese bubbles and melts.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Browned Sausages = Flavor: Take the time to get deep golden color on the sausage. That’s where the flavor magic begins.
Layer Your Cheese: Place cheese both under and over the sausage mix for the ultimate gooey, melty bite.
Don’t Rush the Peppers: Let them cook until just tender. Too soft and you lose all texture—too underdone and they’ll taste raw.
Toasting is Essential: Warm, crispy bread makes all the difference; it keeps your sub from getting soggy.

How to Serve

These sandwiches are a showstopper on their own, but if you want to serve them like a true Italian feast, here are some ideas:

Classic Pairings:

Serve with kettle-cooked chips for crunch.
A crisp green salad (think lemony arugula or classic Caesar) balances the richness.
Pair with pickled veggies (giardiniera) for brightness.
For extra comfort, offer a cup of tomato basil soup on the side.

Don’t forget ice-cold sparkling water, soda, or a bold red wine for your beverage!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The peppers, onions, and sausage filling keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store the rolls and condiments separately to prevent sogginess.

Freezing

Wrap extra cooked sausages and pepper mixture separately in airtight containers. They’ll freeze well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for a quick dinner solution.

Reheating

Reheat the sausage and pepper mix in a skillet or microwave until piping hot. Toast the bread fresh, then assemble as usual—no one will ever know it wasn’t just made.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Absolutely! Pre-cooked sausages save even more time. Just brown them quickly for color and proceed with the recipe—they’ll work perfectly.
Do I have to use all three colors of bell pepper?

Not at all—a single color will do if that’s what you have. Using all three adds a little sweetness and a rainbow of color, but any combination works.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply swap the hoagie rolls for your favorite gluten-free buns or rolls. Everything else is naturally gluten-free!
What are the best cheese options for this sub?

Provolone is a classic, thanks to its perfect melt and gentle sharpness. Havarti is extra creamy, and Swiss has a bit more tang. You can even layer a couple!

Final Thoughts

Don’t wait for a special occasion to enjoy Italian Subs with Sausage and Peppers—this recipe brings big, joyful flavors to even the busiest weeknight. It’s robust, unfussy, and endlessly customizable, making it a true go-to for simple home-cooked comfort. Give it a try, get hands-on, and discover just how delicious (and easy) dinner can be!