It was one of those chilly evenings when all I wanted was something warm, comforting, and full of flavor. I looked in the fridge and saw Italian sausage and a rainbow of bell peppers just waiting to be turned into something special. That’s when the idea of a rustic, bubbling casserole came to life.
The smell that filled the kitchen as it baked was incredible—savory sausage, sweet roasted peppers, and a hint of garlic and herbs. By the time it came out of the oven, the cheese was perfectly melted, and the edges were golden and bubbly. I served it with some crusty bread and a glass of red wine, and let’s just say, there were no leftovers.
Short Description
This Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is a hearty, flavorful bake made with savory sausage, tender bell peppers, onions, and gooey cheese. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal perfect for any night of the week.
Key Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Tools Needed
- Large skillet
- Casserole dish (9×13 inch)
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your casserole dish.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Remove sausage and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté the onions and peppers until tender, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed veggies, drained tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well.
Step 5: Assemble the Casserole
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan.
Step 6: Bake
Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
Step 7: Rest and Serve
Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving. It gives the flavors time to settle—and it makes it easier to slice!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Italian Flavors – Sausage, peppers, tomatoes, and herbs are a classic combo.
- One-Pan Meal – Everything comes together in one dish for easy cleanup.
- Customizable – Add pasta, rice, or potatoes to bulk it up.
- Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day!
Tips & Variations
- Add Pasta – Stir in cooked pasta before baking for a complete meal.
- Go Spicy – Use hot Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Cheesy Twist – Try provolone or fontina for extra melty goodness.
- Vegetarian Option – Swap sausage for plant-based crumbles.
Storage Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Absolutely! Just slice it up and add it with the peppers and onions.
What kind of peppers work best?
Bell peppers of any color work great—use a mix for extra flavor and color.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day ahead and store in the fridge until ready to bake.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole has become one of those go-to recipes when I want a crowd-pleasing, comforting dinner without a lot of fuss. It’s rustic, hearty, and bursting with flavor—and the best part? It’s just as delicious the next day (if you have any left). Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend, this dish always hits the spot.