Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This Italian Sausage Casserole is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Packed with juicy Italian sausage, tender vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It's a fantastic example of delicious dishes that don't require hours in the kitchen. Perfect for a healthy meal, this recipe is also easily adaptable to your preferences – making it one of the best recipes for both beginners and experienced cooks. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your choice!)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
-
Brown the Sausage: Remove the sausage from its casings if necessary. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess grease. This step builds the flavor base of your casserole.
-
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
-
Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. This slow simmer is key to developing a rich and flavorful sauce.
-
Assemble the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and the sausage sauce. Stir gently to combine.
-
Bake & Cheese: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
-
Bake to Perfection: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the casserole is heated through.
-
Garnish & Serve: Let the casserole stand for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh basil leaves (optional) and serving. Enjoy your homemade deliciousness!
Tips & Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for extra heat.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage crumbles.
- Use different cheese: Experiment with other cheeses like provolone or ricotta.
- Meal prep friendly: This casserole is great for meal prepping. Make it ahead of time and reheat for a quick and easy dinner.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Italian Sausage Casserole is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas that are both satisfying and easy on the weeknight schedule. This recipe is ideal for those who enjoy homemade cooking and appreciate flavorful, healthy meals without sacrificing taste. It’s a recipe that will undoubtedly become a staple in your meal rotation!