Festive Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Peppers

It’s that magical time of year when the air is crisp, lights twinkle like stars, and the scent of roasted meats fills our homes. Imagine a vibrant platter of Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers, bursting with flavor and cheer, waiting to dazzle your holiday guests. With every bite, you’ll experience a delightful blend of savory sausage, sweet cranberries, and colorful peppers that sing in harmony. The best part? You can whip this up while sipping on your favorite holiday drink and humming along to those catchy Christmas tunes. For more inspiration, check out this Spicy Chorizo Sweet Potato Chili recipe.

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories. I remember the first time I made these stuffed peppers for a family gathering. As soon as they hit the table, my Uncle Bob declared them “the best thing since sliced bread”—and that’s high praise coming from a man who only ever eats meat and potatoes! So whether it’s a festive dinner or a cozy night in, this dish promises to bring smiles and satisfied stomachs all around. Get ready to impress your friends and family with these gorgeous stuffed peppers that are as delicious as they are festive!

Ingredients for Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bell Peppers: Choose red, green, yellow, or orange peppers for a festive look; their sweetness complements the filling beautifully. Classic green bean casserole.
• Italian Sausage: Use either mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your taste preference; it adds great flavor.
• Cranberries: Fresh or dried cranberries work well; they provide a burst of sweetness to balance the savory sausage.
• Onion: A medium onion adds depth to the filling; sauté until soft for maximum flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic gives an aromatic kick; you can never have too much garlic during the holidays!
• Cheese: Shredded mozzarella or cheddar will melt beautifully on top; feel free to get cheesy!
• Parsley: Fresh parsley is perfect for garnish; it adds color and freshness to your presentation.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup later—trust me, future you will thank present you.

Step 2: Prepare the Peppers

While the oven is heating up, slice the tops off your bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright on the prepared sheet pan like little colorful soldiers ready for battle!

Step 3: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage until fully cooked (about 7-10 minutes). Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks—no one likes big chunks of sausage!

Step 4: Add Aromatics

Once browned, add diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until fragrant and translucent (around 3-5 minutes). Your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Step 5: Stir in Cranberries

Mix in cranberries with the sausage mixture until well combined. Let it cook for another minute just so everything melds together beautifully—this is where magic happens.

Step 6: Stuff Those Peppers

Spoon generous amounts of your sausage mixture into each bell pepper until overflowing like Santa’s bag! Sprinkle cheese on top because cheese makes everything better.

Step 7: Bake Away

Transfer your loaded sheet pan into that preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes until the peppers are tender and cheese is bubbly.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh parsley on top before serving. Transfer to plates with some gusto—you’ve earned it!

Enjoy these delightful Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers at your next holiday gathering or cozy night in! They’re sure to become a cherished family tradition—just like Uncle Bob’s unsolicited opinions at dinner!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven while you prepare the stuffing mixture. Once you’ve filled the peppers, roast them until they’re tender and the sausage is perfectly cooked. This order saves time and ensures every bite bursts with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out sausage types for turkey or vegetarian alternatives. You can also add spices like cumin or paprika for an extra kick, or toss in some cheese for creaminess that will melt in your mouth.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring they stay deliciously juicy.

I remember the first time I made these stuffed peppers for my family during Christmas. They were skeptical at first, but after one bite, we were all fighting over the last one! It turned into a new holiday tradition that everyone looks forward to each year.

FAQs:

What are the main ingredients for Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers?

The main ingredients for Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers include bell peppers, Italian sausage, cranberries, rice, onions, garlic, and a blend of spices. These ingredients come together to create a festive dish that is both flavorful and visually appealing. Cranberry pork loin recipe You can customize the recipe by using different types of sausages or adding nuts for extra crunch. This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners. For more inspiration, check out this Irresistible Garlic Shrimp recipe.

How long does it take to prepare Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers?

Preparing Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers typically takes about 15 minutes. After preparation, baking time is around 30 to 35 minutes. This makes it a quick yet delicious option for busy holiday evenings. The combination of prep and cooking means you can have this delightful meal ready in under an hour. It’s a great choice when time is limited but you still want something special.

Can I make Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers ahead of time. Prepare the stuffed peppers in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop them into the oven and adjust the baking time slightly if they are cold from the fridge. This makes it an excellent choice for holiday meal planning, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

What can I serve with Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers?

Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers pair well with various side dishes. Consider serving them with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread for a balanced meal. You could also offer a light soup as a starter to complement the flavors of the stuffed peppers. Festive cranberry jello salad These options create a festive dining experience that enhances the enjoyment of this delicious main dish.

Conclusion for Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers:

In summary, Sheet Pan Christmas Sausage & Cranberry Stuffed Peppers offer an easy yet festive way to celebrate during the holidays. With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this recipe delivers flavorful results that will impress your family and friends. Thanksgiving sliders recipe The versatility allows for customization based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions. Enjoy these delightful stuffed peppers as part of your holiday feast and create lasting memories around the dinner table!