Description
This Foil Packet Cheesy Sausage and Peppers recipe is a simple, flavorful meal combining savory Italian sausages with colorful bell peppers and onions, all cooked to perfection in foil packets. Whether grilled or baked, the sausages and vegetables steam together to lock in juicy flavors, then topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a rich, cheesy finish. Perfect for a quick dinner or outdoor grilling, this dish offers a satisfying blend of textures and tastes with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausages
- 4 Italian sausages (mild or spicy, based on preference)
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
Seasonings & 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
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or any cheese of your choice)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Foil Packets: Preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C). Cut 4 large pieces of heavy-duty aluminum foil, each about 12 inches long. Place one Italian sausage in the center of each foil piece.
- Add Vegetables and Seasoning: Surround each sausage with slices of red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced onion. Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil evenly over the sausage and vegetables. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Seal the Foil Packets: Fold the sides of the foil over the sausage and veggies, then fold up the ends to securely seal each packet. Make sure the packets are tightly closed to lock in juices and flavors during cooking.
- Cook the Foil Packets: Grilling option: Place the packets on the preheated grill and cook for 25-30 minutes, turning the packets halfway through. Check that the sausages reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) and vegetables are tender. Oven option: Place the packets on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until sausages are fully cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Add Cheese: Carefully open each foil packet (be cautious of hot steam) and sprinkle 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese on top. Close the packets again and return them to the grill or oven for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt thoroughly.
- Serve: Open the foil packets carefully and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your cheesy, savory sausage and peppers!
Notes
- Use heavy-duty aluminum foil to prevent tearing and retain juices during cooking.
- Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or spicy Italian sausages.
- If you prefer, substitute mozzarella with other melting cheeses like cheddar or provolone.
- Make sure to check the internal temperature of the sausages to ensure they are fully cooked for food safety.
- Foil packets can be cooked either on a grill or in the oven depending on availability and preference.
- Leftover packets can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
