Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole

Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole

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If you’re looking for a dish that combines bold Italian flavors with easy, comforting ingredients, this Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is just what you need. It’s packed with juicy sausage, colorful bell peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with gooey, melted cheese.

This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or family gatherings. It’s a satisfying dish on its own but also pairs wonderfully with pasta, crusty bread, or a crisp green salad. Plus, it’s simple to customize! Whether you like it mild or spicy, with extra veggies or a low-carb twist, this recipe can be adapted to fit your tastes.

Read on to learn how to make this flavorful, easy, and crowd-pleasing casserole.

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 3 bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, and green for color)

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes

  • 1 cup marinara sauce

  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1: Prepare the Sausage

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  3. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. This should take about 5–7 minutes.

  4. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.

2: Cook the Vegetables

  1. In the same skillet, add 1 more tablespoon of olive oil.

  2. Sauté the diced onions for 2 minutes until slightly softened.

  3. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3–4 minutes, until tender.

  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

3: Combine the Ingredients

  1. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix everything together.

  2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).

  3. Let everything simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

4: Assemble and Bake

  1. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

  2. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.

  3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.

  2. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, then serve warm.

Storage & Freezing Instructions

Refrigeration:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

  • To reheat, microwave individual portions for 1–2 minutes, or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.

Freezing:

  • Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.

  • Transfer to a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

  • Freeze for up to 3 months.

  • When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is versatile and pairs beautifully with many sides:

Classic Pairings:

  • Garlic Bread – The perfect side to soak up the rich sauce.

  • Pasta – Serve over cooked spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni.

  • Rice or Quinoa – Adds a hearty, filling base to the dish.

Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly Options:

  • Cauliflower Rice – A great alternative for those watching their carbs.

  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – Light and fresh but still satisfying.

Refreshing Sides:

  • Crisp Green Salad – A simple salad with balsamic vinaigrette complements the rich flavors.

  • Steamed Vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add freshness.

Variations & Customizations

Make It Spicier:

  • Use hot Italian sausage and add extra red pepper flakes.

  • Mix in chopped jalapeños for even more heat.

Healthier:

  • Use chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork sausage.

  • Swap regular cheese for a low-fat mozzarella option.

Vegetarian:

  • Replace sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles or mushrooms.

Conclusion

This Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is a perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and hearty flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and incredibly satisfying.

Try this recipe today, and bring the comforting flavors of Italy to your dinner table!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes! You can substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option without sacrificing flavor.

2. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

3. How do I make this dish spicier?

Use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes to add more heat.

4. What cheese works best for this casserole?

Mozzarella and Parmesan are great choices, but you can also try provolone or fontina for extra richness.

5. Can I make this casserole low-carb?

Yes! Skip the marinara sauce and serve it as a sausage and pepper skillet meal.

Enjoy your Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole—a simple yet irresistible dish!

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