Juicy sausage and pepper sandwiches fill the carts of Boston’s Fenway neighborhood, where the Red Sox play. When you hit up a baseball game you can’t leave without savoring one of these irresistible handhelds, typically cooked to order on a piping-hot griddle.
Thankfully, you don’t have to be headed to a Red Sox game to enjoy these Italian sausage and pepper sandwiches, nor do you have to own a griddle. With just a simple sheet pan you can create these smoky yet sweet subs. We finish them with a layer of molten provolone to make them extra tasty. They’re so delicious and easy they’ll have you singing ‘Sweet Caroline’ no matter where you live.
Sausage and Pepper Sandwich Ingredients
- Italian sausages: We rely on sweet Italian sausage for this recipe, but you can use spicy ones if you prefer bites with more heat.
- Red peppers: The red peppers infuse this dish with subtly sweet flavors.
- Onions: The onions caramelize when they cook, releasing sweet notes.
- Olive oil: We drizzle olive oil on the Italian sausages and veggies to help them cook and caramelize.
- Hot dog buns: Look for hearty hot dog buns, like thick brioche ones, that can hold all of the sausages and peppers.
- Provolone cheese: We introduce creamy and savory flavors by melting provolone on top of these sausage and pepper sandwiches.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the sausages and the veggies
Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cut the sausages into small bite-sized pieces. Then, place them on a 15x10x1-inch sheet pan. Next, add the sliced peppers and onions around the sausages. Drizzle olive oil over the sausages and vegetables and bake. Stir the mixture after 15 minutes. Cook until the sausage is no longer pink and the vegetables are tender—about 30 to 35 minutes.
Step 2: Assemble the sausage and pepper sandwich
Place the buns cut side up in a second sheet pan during the last five minutes of baking the sausage. Top the inside of each bun with a cheese slice. Bake the buns until they are golden brown and the cheese melts. Spoon the sausage and pepper mixture into the buns and serve.
Sausage and Pepper Sandwich Recipe Variations
- Use a different cheese: Instead of provolone, you can melt mozzarella, cheddar or American cheese onto these sausage and pepper sandwiches.
- Add pickled peppers: Top these sandwiches with pickled jalapeños or banana peppers for an extra tangy and spicy kick.
- Swap hot dog buns: If you want something more sturdy than a hot dog bun, use a hoagie roll instead.
How to Store Sausage and Pepper Sandwiches
After cooking, allow the sausages and veggies to cool before dividing them into smaller portions. Store the servings in an airtight container for up to seven days. Keep the hot dog buns separately at room temperature.
Can you make these sausage and pepper sandwiches ahead of time?
These delicious sausage and pepper sandwiches are a fantastic choice for outdoor gatherings. Follow the recipe, prepare the mixture and store it in your fridge for up to seven days. When you’re ready to serve, easily reheat them in the oven or quickly on the grill.
Can you freeze these sausage and pepper sandwiches?
You can store the extra sausage and vegetable mixture in the freezer for two to three months if you cook more than needed. Purchase fresh bread and melt the cheese on it when you’re ready to eat.
How long do sausage and pepper sandwiches last?
The sausage and vegetable mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for seven days or in the freezer for two to three months.
Sausage and Pepper Sandwich Tips
Can I make a vegan version of these sausage and pepper sandwiches?
You can make this recipe plant-based friendly by making a few changes. The instructions remain the same; you’ll only have to swap in vegan sausage and cheese.
Can I use a grill to make this recipe?
To infuse the sausages and veggies with a smoky taste, grill them instead of using the oven. Set the grill to medium heat and use a smaller sheet pan that fits your grill size for the sausages. Monitor and continuously stir the sausages so that they do not overcook.
What can I serve with sausage and pepper sandwiches?
These smoky, sweet and juicy sandwiches go hand in hand with homemade fries. For a creamier take, pair them with potato salad. And serve them with crisp lettuce doused in a vinaigrette for a refreshing addition.
