If you’re craving something smoky, saucy, and downright delicious, this BBQ Smoked Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions Recipe is exactly what you need on your plate. Picture juicy, tender smoked sausage pieces kissed by a smoky char, combined with sweet onions and vibrant red peppers that have caramelized edges from a quick broil. Tossed in a rich BBQ sauce that bubbles and caramelizes to perfection, this dish brings bold flavors, beautiful textures, and a wonderful balance of smoky and sweet that will have you coming back for more. It’s perfect for a swift weeknight dinner or an impressive addition to any casual get-together with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients, each one playing a key role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the smoky richness of the sausage to the sweet crunch of peppers and onions, every component shines through beautifully.
- 14 ounce smoked sausage: Choose your favorite variety for that smoky backbone; slicing into bite-sized pieces helps it cook evenly and soaks up the BBQ sauce better.
- ½ cup BBQ sauce: This brings vibrant, tangy sweetness and sticky caramelization – pick a sauce you love since it’s the star glaze here.
- ½ medium sweet onion: Adds a natural sweetness and slight crunch that balances well with the meatiness of the sausage.
- 1 medium red bell pepper: Brings color, subtle sweetness, and a tender bite once charred.
How to Make BBQ Smoked Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Broiler
Start by setting your oven broiler to high. This ensures a quick, high heat that’s perfect for getting that smoky char on the sausage and crisp edges on the vegetables without overcooking. Prep your space so everything is ready to go once your ingredients are chopped.
Step 2: Prepare Your Ingredients
Slice the smoked sausage into roughly 1-inch pieces so every bite offers an ideal balance of smoky meat. Chop both the sweet onion and red bell pepper into similar 1-inch chunks – this not only speeds cooking but ensures even caramelization and texture.
Step 3: First Broil
Lay the sausage, peppers, and onions out evenly on a baking pan lined with foil for easy cleanup. Place the pan on the top oven rack, close to the broiler element, and cook for about 9 minutes. Keep an eye as the sausage develops a nice char and the vegetables start to caramelize, releasing their natural sweetness.
Step 4: Toss with BBQ Sauce
Carefully remove the pan and transfer everything into a large bowl. Pour in the BBQ sauce and toss thoroughly to coat each piece evenly. This step infuses smoky goodness with that tangy, sticky coating that will caramelize beautifully in the next broil.
Step 5: Broil Again for Caramelization
Return the sauced mixture to your foil-lined pan, spreading it out for even cooking. Stick it back under the broiler for 4 minutes more or until the sauce bubbles and begins to darken at the edges. This final broil locks in flavor and texture with a luscious, caramelized finish.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
The magic here is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. The smoky sausage, tender sweet peppers, and onions with that glossy, smoky-sweet glaze make each bite irresistible.
How to Serve BBQ Smoked Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a fresh, vibrant touch and brightens the plate visually and flavor-wise. For a bit of heat, scatter thin slices of jalapeño or drizzle a touch of hot sauce to complement the smoky BBQ notes.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like buttery corn on the cob, a crisp green salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a more casual vibe, pile it onto crusty bread or soft buns for a fantastic sandwich or slider experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your BBQ Smoked Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions Recipe to the next level by serving it over creamy polenta or alongside grilled vegetables for a hearty, colorful plate. You could even turn it into a vibrant taco filling topped with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover BBQ smoked sausage with charred peppers and onions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days, making it easy to enjoy quick reheats or pack for lunch the next day.
Freezing
If you want to keep this dish longer, freezing is a great option. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. It will stay delicious for up to 2 months, ready to thaw and enjoy when the craving hits.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to preserve that lovely charred texture and avoid turning the sausage rubbery. Microwaving works in a pinch but can sometimes soften the crisp edges that make this recipe special.
FAQs
Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds a deep smoky flavor, fresh sausage works too; just be sure to cook it thoroughly and consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that classic BBQ taste.
What type of BBQ sauce works best in this recipe?
Choose a BBQ sauce that you enjoy, whether it’s sweet, tangy, spicy, or smoky. A thick, rich sauce is ideal because it caramelizes nicely under the broiler, coating the sausage and veggies with delicious, sticky layers.
Can I make this recipe on a grill instead of the oven broiler?
Yes! Use high heat on your grill and cook the sausage and vegetables until nicely charred, then toss with BBQ sauce and finish over indirect heat to let the sauce bubble and caramelize gently.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Most smoked sausages and BBQ sauces are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always best to check ingredient labels to be certain—especially if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivities.
How spicy is this BBQ Smoked Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions Recipe?
The recipe itself is mild and focuses on smoky-sweet flavors, but you can easily kick up the heat by choosing spicy sausage or adding hot peppers and spices to your liking.
Final Thoughts
This BBQ Smoked Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions Recipe is a quick, tasty, and versatile dish that brings smoky warmth and comforting flavors with very little fuss. It’s perfect for busy nights yet impressive enough for casual entertaining. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your kitchen!
Print
BBQ Smoked Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This BBQ Smoked Sausage with Charred Peppers and Onions recipe features smoky, flavorful sausage pieces broiled alongside sweet onions and vibrant red bell peppers. Tossed in tangy BBQ sauce and caramelized under a high-heat broiler, this quick and easy dish delivers a perfect balance of smoky char and saucy sweetness, ideal for a fast weeknight meal or casual get-together.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 ounces smoked sausage
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- ½ medium sweet onion
- 1 medium red bell pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the broiler: Set your oven’s broiler to high heat to prepare for quick cooking and to achieve a nicely charred exterior on the sausage and vegetables.
- Prepare the ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. Chop the half sweet onion and the medium red bell pepper into roughly 1-inch pieces to ensure even cooking.
- First broil: Arrange the sausage, peppers, and onions evenly on a baking pan lined with foil. Place the pan on the top rack of the oven and broil for about 9 minutes, until the sausage develops a slight char and the vegetables start to caramelize.
- Toss with BBQ sauce: Carefully remove the pan from the oven and transfer the cooked sausage, onions, and peppers into a large bowl. Thoroughly toss everything with ½ cup of BBQ sauce, making sure all pieces are well coated for maximum flavor.
- Broil again: Spread the sauced mixture evenly back onto the foil-lined baking pan. Place it under the broiler once more for about 4 minutes until the BBQ sauce begins to bubble and caramelize, creating a delicious sticky finish.
- Serve: Remove the pan from the oven and serve immediately while hot to enjoy the full smoky, sweet, and savory flavors of the dish.
Notes
- Use a foil-lined pan for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Keep a close eye during broiling to avoid burning the sausage or sauce.
- Swap smoked sausage for your favorite sausage variety if preferred.
- Serve with rice, bread, or as a hearty sandwich filling.
