Sausage Sandwich Recipe

Prepare sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Crumble the removed sausage meat into the skillet and cook, breaking into bite-sized pieces with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.

Sauté vegetables

Push the cooked sausage to one side of the skillet (or transfer to a bowl). Add the sliced onion and green bell pepper to the pan with the remaining fat. Sauté over medium heat until softened and beginning to caramelize, about 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant.

Combine and season

Return the sausage to the vegetables if set aside. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 4–5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Toast rolls

Preheat broiler or a second skillet. Split the hoagie rolls lengthwise, leaving a hinge if desired. Lightly butter the cut sides with the softened butter. Place under the broiler or on a hot skillet cut-side down and toast until golden and crisp, about 1–2 minutes under a broiler or 2–3 minutes in a skillet.

Assemble sandwiches

Divide the sausage mixture evenly between the two toasted rolls. Top each portion of sausage with a slice of provolone. If using a broiler, return the assembled open-faced sandwiches to the broiler for 1–2 minutes until the cheese melts; alternatively, cover the skillet briefly with a lid on low heat until cheese melts.

Remove sandwiches from heat. Sprinkle chopped basil or parsley over the melted cheese. Add hot sauce or extra red pepper flakes if desired, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Close the rolls and serve immediately.