Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole

Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with comfort food simplicity. Perfect for weeknight family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe offers an exciting mix of spicy sausage, colorful bell peppers, and zesty herbs. Having made this casserole countless times, I can assure you it’s one of those meals that brings everyone to the table with its irresistible aroma and hearty taste.

What Makes This Recipe Special

One of the reasons you’ll love this recipe is its versatility. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s not only budget-friendly but also quick to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying meal that’s full of flavor. This hearty casserole is a fantastic choice for busy weekdays, and if you have a few guests coming over, it suits family gatherings beautifully.

“I made this for my family gathering, and everyone went back for seconds! It was so easy and packed with flavor!” – Sarah, a happy home cook

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s break down the process of making this delicious Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole. It’s straightforward, and following a few simple steps will lead you to a comforting dinner that feels gourmet. You’ll be layering flavors, which not only enhance the dish but make it visually appealing as well.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these essential ingredients before you start cooking:

• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 2-3 bell peppers (any color, sliced)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon basil
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)

Feel free to swap the bell peppers with your favorite vegetables, or even try turkey sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option!

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Cooking Steps

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
4. Toss in the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
6. Transfer the sausage and pepper mixture into a baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Serve hot, topping with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Best Way to Serve

When it comes to serving Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole, get creative! It’s delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it alongside warm crusty bread or over a bed of fragrant rice. A fresh garden salad or a side of steamed veggies also pairs beautifully, adding a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.

Storage Tips

To keep your Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to enjoy it later, consider freezing it! Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When reheating, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safe eating.

Expert Advice

To ensure you achieve the best flavor and texture, here are a few pro tips:

• For added richness, try using a mix of sweet and spicy Italian sausage.
• Adding a splash of red wine to the skillet after browning the sausage can enhance the overall depth of flavor.
• Don’t skip on the cheese topping; it adds a delightful creaminess that brings the dish together.

Creative Twists

Looking to mix things up? Here are some fun variations on the classic recipe:

• Swap Italian sausage for chicken sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter version.
• For an extra kick, add a few red pepper flakes, or mix in some sliced jalapeños.
• Incorporate different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Your questions answered

1. How long does this casserole take to prepare?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, and it takes 20-25 minutes to bake, making this a quick and delicious dish to whip up.

2. Can I substitute the tomato sauce?
Absolutely! You can use marinara sauce, diced tomatoes or even a homemade tomato sauce depending on your preference.

3. Is it safe to freeze leftovers?
Yes, just make sure the casserole is cooled down completely before freezing. Store in a sealed container to maintain the best quality.

This Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole is sure to become a beloved part of your cooking repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious, heartwarming results!

Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A delightful dish combining spicy Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and zesty herbs in a hearty casserole, perfect for family dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 2–3 bell peppers (any color, sliced)
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon basil
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Parmesan cheese (for topping, optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
4. Toss in the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
6. Transfer the sausage and pepper mixture into a baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
8. Serve hot, topping with Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

For added richness, use a mix of sweet and spicy Italian sausage. A splash of red wine can enhance flavor, and don’t skip the cheese topping for creaminess.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Italian, sausage, casserole, easy dinner, comfort food, weeknight meal