Description
A hearty and flavorful Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole featuring savory sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a blend of cheeses baked to perfection. This easy-to-make dish combines cooked pasta with a rich tomato and sausage sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1½ pounds Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, sliced or removed from casing)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 medium red onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (drained)
- 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
Other Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked pasta (penne or ziti)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Brown Sausage: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and transfer to a plate; set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Using the same skillet, add the sliced red, yellow, and green bell peppers along with the sliced red onion. Sauté them over medium heat until tender, approximately 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, cooking for an additional minute to release the flavors.
- Prepare Sauce Mixture: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes and marinara or pasta sauce into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to combine the flavors well.
- Combine with Pasta and Sausage: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, browned sausage, and the pepper and tomato sauce mixture. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
- Assemble the Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly. Transfer the pasta mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the surface.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Italian sausage and pepper casserole.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and baked later when ready.
- For a low-carb alternative, substitute the pasta with roasted cauliflower or zucchini.
- Use turkey or chicken sausage as a leaner option.
