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rustic italian sausage casserole

Rustic Italian Sausage Casserole

This hearty Italian sausage casserole combines savory sausage with tender potatoes, bell peppers, and rich crushed tomatoes for the ultimate comfort food. Perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, this rustic dish delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs Italian sausage hot or mild
  • 4 potatoes cut in chunks
  • 1 green bell pepper seeded and sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Brown the Italian sausage in a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, breaking it into pieces as it cooks.
  3. Transfer the browned sausage to a 9x13 inch baking dish.
  4. Layer the potato chunks, bell pepper slices, diced onion, and minced garlic over the sausage.
  5. Pour the crushed tomatoes evenly over all ingredients.
  6. Sprinkle with dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 50 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
  8. Remove foil and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes to allow top to brown slightly

Notes

Cut potatoes into uniform 1-2 inch chunks for even cooking
Can substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes for added sweetness
Add red pepper flakes for extra heat or fresh herbs like oregano or thyme
Make ahead by assembling the casserole and refrigerating up to 24 hours before baking
Leftovers keep well for 3-4 days in the refrigerator and can be reheated in the oven
Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal
Turkey or chicken sausage can be substituted for a lighter version