Italian Sausage and Pepper Casserole

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove the Italian sausage from its casing and crumble it into the skillet. Cook the sausage until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into smaller pieces as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in the diced tomatoes, including the liquid, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.

Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Transfer to a Baking Dish:
Transfer the sausage and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.

If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top for a cheesy finish.

5. Bake the Casserole:
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese (if used) is melted and golden.

6. Serve:
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or over cooked pasta for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips