Description
This Foil Packet Cheesy Sausage and Peppers recipe is a quick and easy meal perfect for grilling or baking. It combines savory Italian sausages with colorful bell peppers and onions, all seasoned with garlic and Italian herbs, then topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Wrapped in foil packets, this dish cooks evenly while locking in flavors and juices, making cleanup a breeze and delivering a deliciously cheesy, hearty dinner in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Sausages and Vegetables
- 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
Cheeses and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Foil: Preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut four large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long, to create individual cooking packets.
- Assemble the Ingredients: Place one Italian sausage in the center of each piece of foil. Distribute the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced onions evenly over and around the sausages.
- Season and Oil: Drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the sausage and veggies, then sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper evenly across each foil packet for balanced flavor.
- Seal the Foil Packets: Fold the foil tightly over the ingredients, creating a sealed packet that locks in moisture and flavors during cooking. Make sure the packets are securely closed to prevent juices from leaking out.
- Cook the Packets: Place the foil packets on the preheated grill or oven rack. Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes or until the sausages are fully cooked and vegetables are tender. Carefully remove them when done to avoid steam burns.
- Add Cheese and Finish Cooking: Open each foil packet carefully, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and optional grated Parmesan cheese over the hot sausages and peppers. Close the packets just loosely and return them to the heat for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Carefully open the packets once more, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and serve immediately while hot and melty.
Notes
- You can use any type of Italian sausage (pork, chicken, or turkey) based on your preference or dietary needs.
- Feel free to customize the cheese used – provolone or cheddar can be great alternatives.
- To make cleanup easier, use heavy-duty foil to prevent tearing and leaks.
- If baking, placing the foil packets on a baking sheet will catch any drips.
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
- This recipe pairs well with crusty bread or a side of rice to soak up the delicious juices.
