Italian Sausage Pepper Bake

This Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole is the perfect weeknight dinner when you want something hearty yet simple to prepare. It brings together savory sausage, sweet peppers, and tender potatoes or pasta baked beneath a blanket of melty cheese. This dish feels like a warm hug after a busy day and always pleases both family and friends.

I first made this casserole when I had leftover sausages and peppers from the weekend. It quickly became a favorite because of how everything melds together with delicious, cheesy goodness.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: provides rich, meaty flavor choose good quality sausage for the best taste and texture
• Bell peppers: add sweetness and color try to pick firm peppers with vibrant hues that will hold up in baking
• Large onion: gives a mild sharpness that softens when sautéed look for onions that are heavy and dry
• Baby potatoes: offer a creamy bite roasting them brings out a natural sweetness or swap for pasta for a quicker option
• Marinara sauce: ties everything together select one with fresh tomato flavor or make your own if you have time
• Shredded mozzarella: melts beautifully for creamy pockets of cheese go for whole milk mozzarella for richness
• Grated parmesan: adds sharpness and a nutty note freshly grated is always better than prepackaged powder
• Olive oil: for sautéing and roasting choose extra virgin for flavor and health benefits
• Dried oregano: brings a classic Italian herb aroma check the freshness on the jar for best results
• Salt and pepper: to taste enhance all the flavors naturally
• Fresh parsley: for garnish adds a pop of freshness and color

Instructions

Build The Potato Base if using potatoes:

Roast halved baby potatoes tossed in olive oil oregano salt and pepper at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes until golden and tender. This step ensures the potatoes cook through and develop a caramelized flavor. Skip if using pasta instead.

Brown The Sausage:

Cook the sliced or crumbled Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set aside. Browning the sausage adds depth and texture to the casserole.

Sauté The Vegetables:

In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook over medium heat until softened and slightly caramelized about 8 to 10 minutes. This builds a sweet and savory base for the dish.

Layer The Casserole:

In a 9 by 13 inch baking dish place the roasted potatoes or cooked pasta as the bottom layer. Add the cooked sausage over that. Follow with the sautéed peppers and onions spread evenly.

Add The Sauce And Cheese:

Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the layered ingredients and toss lightly to combine flavors. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan generously on top. The cheese melts to create a rich bubbly crust.

Bake Covered, Then Uncovered:

Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Rest And Serve:

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes out of the oven so the flavors settle. Garnish with fresh parsley for brightness before serving.

I love the mix of textures here the crispy roasted potatoes or tender pasta combined with the rich sausage and sweet peppers always brings back memories of cozy family dinners around the table. The parsley on top adds a fresh finish that never goes unnoticed.

Storage Tips

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions covered in the microwave or oven to maintain moisture.

Ingredient Swaps

Swap Italian sausage for spicy chorizo or ground turkey for a leaner option. Use zucchini or mushrooms in place of peppers to change up the veggie profile. If you prefer gluten-free pasta, rice noodles work well too.

Serving Ideas

Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for balance. A side of garlic bread or crusty rolls will help mop up the sauce. Top with extra parmesan or chili flakes if you like extra kick.

This casserole is a comforting favorite with a perfect blend of flavors and textures that make weeknight dinners special every time.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ Can I use pasta instead of potatoes?

Yes, cooked pasta can be used as a base instead of roasted baby potatoes for a different texture and flavor.

→ What type of Italian sausage works best?

Both sweet or spicy Italian sausage work well; choose based on your preferred flavor profile.

→ How should I prepare the peppers and onions?

Slice the bell peppers and onions, then sauté them in the skillet until tender and slightly caramelized.

→ Is it better to slice or crumble the sausage?

Either works fine, but slicing gives a chunkier bite while crumbling spreads the flavor evenly.

→ Can this dish be prepared in advance?

Yes, you can assemble it ahead of time and refrigerate before baking to save time on serving day.