Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bubbling casserole fresh out of the oven, and this Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole truly embodies that warmth. Filled with colorful vegetables, packed with flavor, and so satisfying, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. Whether it’s a chilly weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering, this recipe is perfect for sharing smiles and good conversations. Trust me, once you try this, it’s destined to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire!
Why you’ll love this dish
When it comes to weeknight meals, this casserole shines for many reasons. First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when time is limited. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s both budget-friendly and kid-approved. This dish showcases the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine, with savory sausage and sweet bell peppers harmoniously blending together. Plus, if you have leftovers (which is rarely the case!), they make for excellent lunches the next day.
"I made this casserole for my family last week, and it was a huge hit! Super easy to prepare, and everyone loved the flavors. Will definitely make it again!" – Satisfied Cook
Preparing Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole
This casserole comes together beautifully in just a few simple steps. You’ll start by browning flavorful Italian sausage, followed by softening bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Next, combine everything with crushed tomatoes and seasoning, and optionally, some pasta and cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience.
What you’ll need
Here’s what you’ll gather for this Italian feast:
- 1 pound Italian sausage – Look for sweet or spicy based on your preference.
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced – This not only adds color but also layers of flavor.
- 1 onion, chopped – Sweet onions work best for a gentle flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For that aromatic touch.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – The base for the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs like basil and oregano captured in one.
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked pasta (optional) – Use your favorite shape, or omit if you prefer.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional) – To achieve that gooey, cheesy top.
Feel free to swap and add ingredients. Ground turkey or chicken can replace sausage, and you can use zucchini or squash for different veggies.
Directions to follow
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until it’s cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Season it all with salt and pepper to taste.
- If you’re using pasta, fold it in, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the hearty mixture into a casserole dish. Top it with mozzarella cheese if you want that delicious melty layer.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Serve hot and savor every bite!
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving this casserole, you have several delightful options. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the rich flavors of the dish—think arugula or spinach with cherry tomatoes. Crusty garlic bread also makes a wonderful accompaniment for dipping. If you want something more substantial, consider a side of roasted vegetables or even some homemade garlic knots.
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it’ll keep fresh for 3-4 days. To reheat, simply pop it back into the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave if you’re in a hurry. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 3 months. When freezing, it’s best to do so before adding cheese, as it can change texture when thawed. Just add the cheese right before baking.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, use quality Italian sausage, as it’s the star ingredient of this dish. Don’t underestimate the power of seasoning; taste as you go, and add more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs if needed. If you want a bit of heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice!
Creative twists
Looking to switch things up? Try adding some chopped spinach or kale for extra nutrients. If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, any good melting cheese will work, like provolone or fontina. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a dash of red wine to the tomato mixture while it simmers. For a vegetarian option, replace the sausage with your favorite meat substitute for a similar texture and flavor.
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare?
You can expect around 15-20 minutes for prep and another 25-30 minutes for baking, making it a quick dinner option.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble everything in advance, keep it covered in the fridge, and just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
This recipe is highly adaptable! For gluten-free, substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or quinoa, and for dairy-free, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
This Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole is not just a meal; it’s an experience—and I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do! Enjoy cooking and savoring this hearty dish.
Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage Look for sweet or spicy based on your preference.
- 3 pieces bell peppers (red, green, yellow), sliced Adds color and layers of flavor.
- 1 piece onion, chopped Sweet onions work best for a gentle flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced For that aromatic touch.
- 28 ounces crushed tomatoes The base for the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning A blend of herbs like basil and oregano.
- to taste salt and pepper
Optional ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta Use your favorite shape, or omit if you prefer.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese For that gooey, cheesy top.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, brown the Italian sausage over medium heat until it’s cooked through. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- If using pasta, fold it in, mixing until everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a casserole dish. Top with mozzarella cheese if desired.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden.
- Serve hot and savor every bite!
