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When it comes to hearty, satisfying meals that bring bold flavor without complicated steps, Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole stands out as a timeless favorite. This oven-baked dish combines savory Italian sausage, tender bell peppers, aromatic garlic, and rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s the kind of meal that feels comforting yet impressive, perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or meal prep.
What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility. It works beautifully as a standalone dish, pairs effortlessly with pasta or bread, and can be customized to suit different dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or planning leftovers, this casserole delivers both flavor and convenience.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients you can find at any grocery store
- Rich Italian flavors with minimal prep time
- High-protein, filling, and satisfying
- Perfect for meal prep and make-ahead dinners
- Customizable for low-carb, gluten-free, or lighter diets
- Ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or freezer meals
This casserole checks all the boxes for an easy homemade dinner that tastes like it simmered all day.
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Ingredients Breakdown
• Italian Sausage – The heart of the recipe, Italian sausage delivers bold seasoning and rich flavor without needing extra spices. Choose mild or spicy based on preference.
• Bell Peppers – A mix of red and green peppers adds sweetness, color, and texture. Red peppers bring natural sweetness, while green peppers add slight bitterness for balance.
• Onion – Chopped onion deepens the savory flavor and blends smoothly into the tomato base.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic intensity and pairs perfectly with the sausage.
• Diced Tomatoes – Provide texture and acidity, keeping the casserole from feeling heavy.
• Tomato Sauce – Creates a rich, cohesive base that ties all the ingredients together.
• Italian Seasoning – A classic blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds authentic Italian flavor.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully into a golden, bubbly topping that makes the casserole irresistible.
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Tips and Tricks
- Brown the sausage well to develop deeper flavor before adding vegetables
- Slice peppers evenly so they cook at the same rate
- Drain excess grease from sausage to avoid a greasy casserole
- Use freshly shredded mozzarella for better melting
- Let the casserole rest before serving so it sets properly
These small steps make a noticeable difference in both flavor and texture.
Variations and Customizations
This recipe is highly adaptable and easy to modify.
Protein Options
- Use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter version
- Try plant-based sausage for a vegetarian-friendly option
Low-Carb Version
- Skip pasta pairings and serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice
Extra Vegetables
- Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition
- Stir in olives for a briny Mediterranean twist
Cheese Variations
- Substitute provolone for a sharper flavor
- Mix mozzarella with Parmesan for added depth
Pairing Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a variety of sides:
- Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread
- Steamed rice or buttered egg noodles
- Pasta such as penne or rigatoni
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables or sautéed greens
These pairings help turn the casserole into a complete, balanced meal.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze fully cooled casserole for up to 2 months
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions
This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.
Popular Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, it is naturally gluten-free. Always double-check sausage labels.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you may need to add extra sauce or simmer longer to achieve the same consistency.
How do I prevent watery casserole?
Cook vegetables thoroughly before baking and avoid adding excess liquid.
Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet over medium heat, cook Italian sausage until fully browned, breaking it into crumbles.
- Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 3–5 minutes.
- Transfer the sausage mixture to a greased oven-safe casserole dish and spread evenly.
- Top with shredded mozzarella cheese. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Turkey sausage works well for a lighter dish
- This casserole pairs perfectly with pasta or bread
- Ideal for meal prep and reheating
- Flavor improves even more the next day
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