Description
A cozy and hearty casserole that combines Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a tomato base, making it a perfect dish for family gatherings and weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds Italian sausage links (Sweet or hot pork for best flavor.)
- 3 pieces Bell peppers (A mix of red, yellow, and green, sliced thick.)
- 1 large Onion (Cut into wedges.)
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1.5 cups Crushed tomatoes or marinara (For the saucy base.)
- 2 to 3 cloves Garlic (Minced.)
- 1 to 1.5 cups Shredded mozzarella or provolone (For topping the casserole.)
- a pinch Red pepper flakes (Optional for heat.)
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease a 9×13 baking dish or use a deep sheet pan.
- Slice the bell peppers and onion. Toss them with olive oil, salt, Italian seasoning, and black pepper.
- Score the sausage links a couple of times to prevent splitting but keep them whole for juiciness.
- Optional: Brown sausages in a skillet for 2 to 3 minutes per side to seal in juices.
Baking
- Layer the peppers and onions in the dish. Nestle the sausages on top.
- Add crushed tomatoes or marinara around the edges. Sprinkle minced garlic and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Bake for 20 minutes. Flip sausages and bake another 10 to 15 minutes until sausages reach 165°F (74°C) and vegetables are tender.
- Top with shredded cheese and bake for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until bubbly and golden. Rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
This casserole can be personalized with cheese variations and hearty add-ins like pasta or potatoes. Keeps well in the fridge for 4 days, or freeze without the cheese topping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian