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

Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or even entertaining guests. Combining savory Italian sausage with tender bell peppers, sweet onions, and a rich tomato base, this casserole is topped with melted mozzarella cheese that adds the perfect gooey finish. It’s an easy, one-dish meal that delivers bold Italian flavors with minimal effort. Whether served on its own or with pasta or crusty bread, this casserole is guaranteed to become a favorite in your dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
• 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

Optional garnish: fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.

Preparation Method

1. Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks to ensure it cooks evenly. Once done, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving a little of the rendered fat in the pan for sautéing the vegetables.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and sliced bell peppers to the same skillet. Sauté for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are slightly softened but still retain a little crunch. The sautéing process enhances the natural sweetness of the peppers and onion, adding depth to the casserole.

4. Combine with Tomato Base

Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps the flavors meld and creates a savory tomato sauce that complements the sausage and peppers perfectly.

5. Assemble the Casserole

Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine everything evenly. Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

6. Bake

Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top. For an extra golden crust, you can broil for an additional 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

7. Serve

Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve the casserole on its own, or with pasta, rice, or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole

• Choose your sausage wisely: Mild or spicy Italian sausage works; pick your favorite depending on your heat preference.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables: Sauté them just until softened to retain some texture and flavor.
• Use fresh mozzarella for extra creaminess: Pre-shredded cheese works, but fresh mozzarella gives a gooier, more indulgent finish.
• Make ahead: You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake just before serving.
• Add extra flavor: A splash of red wine or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds a subtle depth and complexity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes! Provolone, fontina, or even cheddar can work, but mozzarella provides the classic gooey, melty texture that complements Italian sausage.

Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or cooked lentils and skip the meat for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I freeze it?
Yes, the casserole freezes well. Assemble it without baking, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding extra baking time as needed.

What can I serve with this casserole?
Serve with cooked pasta, garlic bread, or a simple green salad. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make it spicier?
Use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato mixture for extra heat.

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Conclusion

Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole is a simple, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the classic flavors of Italy to your table. With tender sausage, sweet bell peppers, aromatic onions, and gooey melted mozzarella, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering, this casserole is both comforting and impressive. With minimal prep and a single baking step, you can enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that’s full of flavor and texture.