Peppers and Wieners
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Servings: 4
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 beef, pork, or turkey wieners (hot dogs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Optional Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil
- Shredded mozzarella (for serving on toasted rolls)
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Serving platter
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Slice the bell peppers into thin strips.
Thinly slice the onion and mince the garlic.
Cut each wiener into 2-inch pieces or leave them whole if serving on buns.
Pat the vegetables dry if they have been washed to encourage better browning.
Step 2: Brown the Wieners
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the wieners and cook for 5–6 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly browned on all sides.
Transfer them to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Vegetables
Using the same skillet, add the sliced peppers and onions.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become tender and begin to caramelize.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Stir in:
- Italian seasoning
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Crushed red pepper flakes (if using)
Add the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to caramelize slightly and deepen in flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth or water to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the browned wieners to the skillet.
Stir gently so they are coated in the flavorful pepper mixture.
If using Worcestershire sauce or Dijon mustard, stir them in now.
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to blend together.
For added richness, stir in the butter just before serving.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve immediately with your choice of side dishes or toasted sandwich rolls.
Tips for the Best Peppers and Wieners
- Brown the wieners first to enhance their flavor and texture.
- Use a mix of colorful bell peppers for sweetness and visual appeal.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet so the vegetables caramelize instead of steaming.
- Add fresh herbs at the end for a bright, fresh finish.
- Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Recipe Variations
Italian-Style Peppers and Wieners
Add sliced mushrooms, extra oregano, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Serve on toasted hoagie rolls.
Spicy Version
Use spicy hot dogs and increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños.
Barbecue Peppers and Wieners
Stir in 2 tablespoons of your favorite barbecue sauce during the final few minutes of cooking for a sweet and smoky glaze.
Cheesy Peppers and Wieners
Top the finished skillet with shredded cheddar or mozzarella and place it under the broiler for 2–3 minutes until melted.
Low-Carb Version
Serve the peppers and wieners over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh green salad instead of bread.
Storage
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Freezing Instructions
Store the cooled mixture in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags.
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Stovetop
Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth if needed.
Microwave
Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
Peppers and Wieners pair well with:
- Toasted hot dog buns
- Hoagie rolls
- Garlic bread
- Mashed potatoes
- Buttered egg noodles
- White or brown rice
- Roasted potatoes
- French fries
- Coleslaw
- Garden salad
- Corn on the cob
- Baked beans
For beverages, try:
- Fresh lemonade
- Iced tea
- Sparkling water with lemon
- Apple cider
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 35 minutes
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Family-friendly meal
- One-pan recipe for easy cleanup
- Colorful and flavorful
- Easily customizable
- Great for meal prep
- Perfect for weeknight dinners
- Delicious served in sandwiches or over rice
- Comfort food with simple pantry staples
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values:
- Calories: 360 kcal
- Protein: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
- Sodium: 1,120 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 7 g
- Potassium: 460 mg
- Calcium: 35 mg
- Iron: 2 mg
- Vitamin A: 20% DV
- Vitamin C: 140% DV
