Name: Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole: A Must-Try Delight! Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
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

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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.

The image shows a clear glass dish filled with a baked casserole that has three visible layers. The bottom layer is a thick, rich red sauce with small pieces of vegetables. The middle layer consists of chunky yellow and red bell peppers, along with browned meatballs scattered evenly. The top layer is a golden melted cheese covering the dish, slightly browned in spots, and sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs for garnish. The dish is placed on a white marbled surface near a stove. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
Step 3: Add the sliced bell peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
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.
Step 5: Transfer the sausage and vegetable mixture to a casserole dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
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

A glass baking dish filled with a colorful baked casserole sits on a white marbled surface. The casserole has multiple layers visible through the sides: at the bottom is a rich, thick red tomato sauce, followed by chunks of browned meat and vibrant pieces of red, yellow, and orange bell peppers. The top layer is covered in melted, golden-brown cheese with small browned spots and sprinkled with green herbs. The cheese looks gooey and slightly crispy on the edges, and the casserole has a hearty, homemade appearance. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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.