Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole – A Flavor-Packed Comfort Classic

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This Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is a comforting, hearty dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Juicy Italian sausages, sweet and smoky bell peppers, and rich marinara sauce come together in a cheesy, baked masterpiece that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family meal. Whether you serve it with crusty bread, pasta, or a simple salad, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Bold Italian Flavors – The combination of browned sausage, bell peppers, onions, and Italian herbs makes every bite irresistible.
  • Easy One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup with all ingredients coming together in a single baking dish.
  • Cheesy Perfection – A golden, bubbling layer of mozzarella and Parmesan adds a rich, melty finish.
  • Meal Prep Friendly – Great for leftovers and easy to reheat!

Ingredients

For the Casserole:

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, sliced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

For Garnish:

  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage & Peppers
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the sausage slices for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and slightly crispy. Remove from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers for 3-5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently.

Step 2: Assemble the Casserole
Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, marinara sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper into the skillet with the onions and peppers. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and arrange the browned sausage slices evenly throughout. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.

Step 3: Bake & Serve
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

This hearty casserole pairs well with:

  • Crusty Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.
  • Pasta – Serve over cooked spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni for a complete Italian meal.
  • Side Salad – A fresh arugula or Caesar salad balances out the richness.
  • Mashed Potatoes – Creamy potatoes make a comforting side dish.

Pro Tips for the Best Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole

  • Use Fresh Sausages – Opt for high-quality Italian sausage for the best flavor.
  • Roast the Peppers – For extra depth, roast the bell peppers in the oven before adding them to the casserole.
  • Spicy or Mild? – Choose mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference.
  • Add a Kick – A pinch of red pepper flakes will enhance the heat.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.

FAQs

Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes! Chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausages work well as substitutes.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach make great additions.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Conclusion

This Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is a true crowd-pleaser, packed with bold flavors and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. Try it tonight and experience the perfect combination of sausage, peppers, and melty cheese!

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