Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This one-pan sausage and bean bake is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights. Using pantry staples like canned pork and beans elevates this simple recipe to a hearty and flavorful experience, ideal for a quick dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. This recipe is packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy and satisfying choice for the whole family. Let’s get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!), casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can pork and beans
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This preparation step ensures even cooking and easy cleanup.
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Brown the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step enhances the overall flavor profile of the recipe.
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Combine everything: In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked sausage and vegetables with the pork and beans, kidney beans, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure even distribution of flavors.
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Bake: Cover the baking dish and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the cover and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the top is lightly browned. The uncovered baking time allows the top to brown nicely, adding a pleasing visual element to the dish.
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Serve: Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese (optional) and fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious and easy meal!
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Dish:
- Spice it up: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add more veggies: Boost the nutritional value and add flavor by incorporating other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini.
- Use different beans: Experiment with other types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.
Variations:
- Chicken Sausage: Substitute Italian sausage with chicken sausage for a leaner option.
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage entirely and add a can of drained and rinsed chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This hearty and flavorful one-pan sausage and bean bake is a perfect example of delicious and easy recipes. It's a fantastic option for healthy meals and a go-to for quick dinner ideas, showcasing the best of homemade cooking without sacrificing taste or ease. Enjoy!