Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole: A Must-Try Delight! Recipe

Introduction

This Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and melted mozzarella, it’s a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Step 3: Add the sliced bell peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
4. Step 4: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to combine the flavors.
5. Step 5: Transfer the sausage and vegetable mixture to a casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Step 7: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use sweet or hot Italian sausage depending on your spice preference.
• Add sliced mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables and flavor.
• For a low-carb version, skip the tomato sauce and add extra vegetables.
• Top with fresh basil or parsley before serving for a fresh finish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This casserole also freezes well—thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage works as a leaner alternative, though it may be less fatty and slightly less flavorful. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Is this casserole good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well, reheats easily, and can be portioned out for several meals throughout the week.

Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole: A Must-Try Delight! Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 113 reviews

This Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish combining savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese and baked to perfection. It’s an easy-to-make dinner that brings comforting Italian flavors to your table.

• Author: Logan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meat & Vegetables

• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

Tomato Base

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole evenly.
2. Cook Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until it is browned and cooked through, breaking it up as it cooks.
3. Sauté Vegetables: Add the sliced red and green bell peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage and sauté until the vegetables become tender and fragrant.
4. Add Tomato and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the skillet mixture, combining everything thoroughly.
5. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the sausage and vegetable mixture into a casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Then top the mixture with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese to create a delicious cheesy crust.
6. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set and prevent burning.

Notes

• You can substitute mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
• For a lower-fat option, use turkey Italian sausage and reduced-fat mozzarella cheese.
• Add extra Italian herbs like basil or oregano for more flavor.
• This casserole pairs well with crusty bread or over pasta.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Italian sausage casserole, sausage and peppers, baked sausage dish, easy Italian dinner, cheesy sausage bake