Italian Sausage Bake

by

Introduction:
Italian Sausage Bake is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together the rich taste of Italian sausage with a medley of vegetables and a cheesy topping. This comforting casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. With minimal preparation and a baking time that allows you to relax while it cooks, this dish is both convenient and delicious.

Ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 green bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Addition:

  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Prepare the Sausage and Vegetables:

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  • Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula.
  • Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  • Add the chopped bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Cook until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

3. Combine Ingredients:

  • In a large baking dish, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and cherry tomatoes.
  • Pour the marinara sauce over the mixture and stir to combine.
  • Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

4. Add the Cheese:

  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.

5. Bake:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
  • Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • For extra flavor, use a combination of mild and spicy Italian sausage.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, eggplant, or spinach to the casserole.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the marinara sauce slightly on the stove before adding it to the casserole.

Nutritional Estimate:
(Per Serving, based on 6 servings)

  • Calories: 450
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 6g
  • Protein: 25g

Recommendation:
This Italian Sausage Bake pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread. For a complete meal, serve it with a glass of red wine such as Chianti or Sangiovese. This dish is not only delicious but also versatile, making it a great addition to your recipe collection for any occasion. Enjoy the savory and satisfying flavors of this Italian-inspired casserole!

Leave a Comment