Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole

Ever had a dish that brings the essence of an Italian feast straight to your table?

There’s something incredibly special about Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole. It’s quick, one-pan goodness that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and wraps you in cozy vibes. Perfect for those busy weeknights or when you just want to impress without all the fuss!

Why make this recipe

Why should you whip up this flavorful casserole? For starters, it’s a one-pan wonder — less time cleaning up means more time enjoying. Plus, it’s totally family-friendly; I mean, who can resist cheesy, saucy goodness? 😍 And let’s be real, you won’t break the bank here; just simple, affordable ingredients!

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 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

Directions

So, ready to dive into this deliciousness? Just follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to make Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole (Overview)

Creating this Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole is like piecing together a delicious puzzle. First, you sauté the sausage until it’s perfectly browned (seriously, the smell alone will get your family rallying around the kitchen!). Next, toss in the colorful bell peppers and onion — it’s like adding a pop of color to your dinner plate.

Don’t skip toasting the garlic; it’s where the magic happens! Then mix in those juicy diced tomatoes and sauce, giving it all a good stir to marry those flavors. Top it with mozzarella because, well, who doesn’t love gooey cheese? Pop it in the oven till it gets all bubbly and golden. Heaven on a plate, my friend!

How to serve Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole

Serve this casserole straight from the oven, and watch your guests’ eyes light up! The vibrant colors of the bell peppers and oozing mozzarella create a feast for the eyes. Pair it with some crusty bread for dipping or a fresh green salad for a perfect balance. Imagine biting into that warm, flavorful blend — it’s like a hug for your taste buds! 🍽️

How to store Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This casserole keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just store it in an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, feel free! It’ll last about 2-3 months in the freezer. To reheat, pop it back in the oven or microwave until it’s warmed through and the cheese is melty again.

Tips to make Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole

Want to elevate your casserole game? Here are some insider tips:

• Use spicy sausage for a kick!
• Swap out the mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.
• Add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for some extra heat!
• Don’t rush the sautéing; let those veggies caramelize to enhance their sweetness.
• You can even throw in some spinach or mushrooms for added texture and nutrients.

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Swap out the Italian sausage for chicken sausage or keep it plant-based with vegan sausage! You can also add some Italian herbs to complement the flavor or toss in a dash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist. The possibilities are endless!

FAQs

Can I use other types of sausage?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare everything up to baking, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. Just add a little extra baking time.

Can I freeze it?
For sure! Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe dish. Reheat when you’re ready to dig in!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole

A one-pan Italian dish filled with Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and melted mozzarella, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage Choose mild or spicy based on preference
• 2 pieces bell peppers, sliced (red and green) Adds color and flavor
• 1 piece onion, chopped Any variety is fine
• 3 cloves garlic, minced For extra flavor
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes Add extra juice for moisture
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce For a rich sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning For classic Italian flavor
• to taste none Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese Can substitute with provolone or fontina

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
3. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
7. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For variations, try chicken sausage or plant-based options. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days or can be frozen for 2-3 months.