Print

Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

This Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is a savory, cheesy delight, featuring flavorful Italian sausage, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and garlic, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make

Ingredients

Scale
  1. For the Casserole:

    • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference)
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
    • 2 bell peppers, sliced (red and green work well)
    • 1 large onion, sliced
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with Italian seasoning, or regular if you prefer)
    • 1/2 cup marinara sauce (optional, for extra depth)
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

    For the Optional Topping:

    1. Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Cook the Sausage: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
  • Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet with the peppers and onions. Stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce (if using), oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
  • Assemble the Casserole: Transfer the sausage and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  • Bake the Casserole: Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the top is golden brown.

 

  • Serve & Garnish: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for added freshness and flavor.

Notes

  • If you prefer a spicier dish, use spicy Italian sausage or add extra red pepper flakes.
  • To make it lower-carb, serve without the marinara sauce or over a bed of cauliflower rice.

 

  • This casserole can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition