Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. I often prep it in the morning before the girls wake up, then finish it right before dinner. Assemble the skillet mixture, store it covered in the fridge, and bake it straight from the fridge when ready. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it is chilled.

Can I use ground beef instead of Italian sausage?

You can, but the flavor will change. Italian sausage brings herbs and fat that make the dish rich. If you use ground beef, add a teaspoon of Italian seasoning and a bit of olive oil to mimic the sausage flavors.

How can I make it milder for children?

Choose sweet Italian sausage and leave out any red pepper flakes. You can also reduce the garlic if your kids find it strong. The peppers add natural sweetness, which usually helps picky eaters.

Is this recipe freezer friendly?

Yes. Cool the casserole, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and use within three months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I add pasta to make it heartier?

Absolutely. Mix in cooked pasta before transferring to the casserole dish. Short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni work well and soak up the sauce.

Easy Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole 2026 Cook That Dish

Name: Italian Sausage & Pepper Casserole: A Must-Try Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound Italian sausage; 2 bell peppers (one red and one green), sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Description

A comforting and easy casserole featuring Italian sausage, bell peppers, and melted cheese, perfect for family gatherings.

Ingredients

1 pound Italian sausage
2 bell peppers (one red and one green), sliced
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain some fat if necessary, but leave enough for flavor.
Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens gently.
Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For a lighter version, choose turkey sausage and low-fat mozzarella. Use fresh basil for added garden brightness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian