Grilled Italian Sausage with Peppers & Onions in Illinois

Introduction

Get ready for the ultimate grilled Italian sausage experience! Juicy sausages, seared to perfection on the Arteflame grill, paired with caramelized peppers and onions, all served on a crusty hoagie roll. This classic dish is cooked over firewood, delivering irresistible smoky flavors perfect for any gathering.

Ingredients

• 6 Italian sausages (mild or spicy)
• 3 bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
• 2 large onions, sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 6 crusty hoagie rolls
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for lighting the grill)
• Firewood for grilling

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill

1. Pour vegetable oil on three paper napkins and place them inside the grill.
2. Stack firewood over the napkins and light the paper.
3. Allow the grill to heat up for about 20 minutes.

Step 2: Sear the Italian Sausages

1. Place the Italian sausages on the center grill grate to sear at 1,000°F.
2. Sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until a rich brown crust forms.
3. Move the sausages onto the flat cooktop to continue cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Peppers and Onions

1. Melt butter on the flat griddle cooktop.
2. Add sliced peppers and onions.
3. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano.
4. Cook until soft and caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Sausages

1. Cook the sausages on the flat cooktop, turning occasionally, until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F.
2. Remove them from the grill when they reach 145°F to account for carryover cooking.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

1. Toast the hoagie rolls on the flat cooktop until golden.
2. Place a sausage in each roll.
3. Top with grilled peppers and onions.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
• Butter enhances flavor better than olive oil.
• For extra smoky flavor, add wood chips to the fire.
• Grill everything at once to maximize the Arteflame’s large cooking surface.

Variations

1. Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños and red pepper flakes for a fiery version.
2. Cheesy Delight: Melt provolone or mozzarella over the sausages before assembling.
3. Chicago Style: Add giardiniera for an authentic Illinois twist.
4. Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle balsamic reduction over the grilled peppers and onions.
5. Bratwurst Twist: Swap Italian sausages with bratwursts for a German-inspired taste.

Conclusion

Grilling Italian sausage with peppers and onions on the Arteflame grill brings out unbeatable flavors and textures. The searing center grate locks in juices, while the flat griddle cooktop ensures even cooking for vegetables and buns. Whether for a family BBQ or game day, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

Best Pairings

• Cold Italian lager or a bold red wine
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Crispy French fries or potato wedges
• Tomato and mozzarella Caprese salad