As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting casserole to lift your spirits. And what better way to satisfy those cozy cravings than with a hearty Italian sausage dish? The combination of savory sausage, rich pasta, and melty cheese is a match made in heaven, and we’ve got 20 mouthwatering recipes to prove it.
From classic combinations like Tuscan White Bean and Italian Sausage Casserole to creative twists like Smoked Mozzarella and Italian Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups, our list has something for every sausage lover. Whether you’re a fan of creamy pasta bakes or crunchy vegetable stews, we’ve got the perfect recipe to warm your belly and your heart.
In this article, we’ll be diving into the world of Italian sausage casseroles, exploring everything from classic comfort food to more adventurous flavor combinations. So grab a cup of coffee, get cozy, and let’s dive in!
Tuscan White Bean and Italian Sausage Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of Italy with the simplicity of a weeknight dinner. A medley of cannellini beans, Italian sausage, and tomatoes come together in a satisfying and flavorful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, onion, and cannellini beans; cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Pasta Bake
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the savory goodness of Italian sausage with the creaminess of a rich sauce, all wrapped up in a satisfying casserole. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add garlic and spinach to the skillet; cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and heavy cream in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with cheddar cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Tortellini Casserole
Get ready to enjoy a satisfyingly cheesy casserole filled with Italian sausage and tender tortellini. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
5. Add cooked sausage and tortellini to the bowl; mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage and Pepperoni Layered Bake
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines spicy Italian sausage with melted pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and crunchy breadcrumbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 8 oz pepperoni slices
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and bell peppers to the skillet; cook until tender.
4. In a separate baking dish, arrange half of the pepperoni slices.
5. Top with the sausage mixture, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Repeat layers: remaining pepperoni, sausage mixture, and cheese.
7. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and drizzle with olive oil.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Herbed Italian Sausage and Mushroom Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the earthiness of mushrooms and a hint of herbs. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, rigatoni)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and mushrooms to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in garlic, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, oregano, and thyme.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Italian Sausage and Potato Bake
Savor the flavors of Italy with this hearty, comforting casserole that combines sweet potatoes, savory Italian sausage, and a rich garlic parmesan sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Place sausages on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cook for 10-12 minutes or until browned.
4. In a separate pan, heat remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked sausage, sweet potatoes, garlic mixture, Parmesan cheese, and oregano in a large casserole dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are tender and top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Italian Sausage Risotto Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Gradually add warmed broth, stirring until absorbed before adding more. Repeat process until all broth used.
6. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Crusty Bread-Topped Italian Sausage and Vegetable Stew
Warm up on a chilly evening with this hearty, flavorful stew topped with crusty bread and filled with sautéed vegetables and savory Italian sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4-6 slices crusty bread, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add bell peppers and zucchinis; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a simmer.
6. Serve stew hot, topped with crusty bread slices.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Italian Sausage and Three-Cheese Baked Ziti
A hearty and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, melted cheese, and tender ziti. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup crumbled ricotta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Combine cooked sausage, marinara sauce, and cooked ziti pasta in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Top with mozzarella, Parmesan, and ricotta cheese. Drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Italian Sausage Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory goodness of Italian sausage. Perfect for a comforting dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, roasted and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add roasted red peppers and cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Combine cooked sausage, pepper mixture, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Mediterranean Italian Sausage and Olive Bake
This hearty dish combines the flavors of Italy with the warmth of the Mediterranean, perfect for a cozy night in. Succulent sausage, sweet olives, and tangy tomatoes come together in a rich and satisfying casserole.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Italian sausage links
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage links according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add sliced olives and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
5. Add canned tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage, tomato mixture, and parsley. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Mozzarella and Italian Sausage Lasagna Roll-Ups
Elevate your lasagna game with these creamy, savory roll-ups featuring smoked mozzarella and Italian sausage. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a show-stopping main course.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup smoked mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. To assemble roll-ups, spread a thin layer of ricotta mixture on each noodle, followed by a slice of smoked mozzarella and some cooked sausage.
6. Roll up tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Italian Sausage and Polenta Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of spicy Italian sausage, creamy polenta, and flavorful vegetables. It’s an easy one-pot meal that’s ready in under an hour!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet or hot Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup polenta cornmeal
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Add chicken broth, polenta cornmeal, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and basil. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes or until the polenta is creamy and the sausage is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Italian Sausage Strata
This strata is a perfect combination of sweet caramelized onions, spicy Italian sausage, and crispy bread, all in one delicious dish. It’s ideal for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the sliced onions to the skillet and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally.
4. In a large bowl, combine the bread, cooked sausage mixture, garlic, and cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and add the bread mixture.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Italian Sausage and Butternut Squash Bake
This hearty, one-pot dish combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage and caramelized butternut squash with a tangy balsamic glaze. Perfect for a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the cubed butternut squash, chicken broth, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the pot and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the lid and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the squash is tender and the glaze has thickened.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pesto Italian Sausage and Farro Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, featuring the bold flavors of Italy. This dish combines juicy sausage, nutty farro, and creamy pesto with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked farro
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. In a separate pot, combine cooked farro and pesto; stir to combine.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of farro mixture, followed by a layer of sausage, and top with mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat layers two more times, ending with cheese on top.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Slow-Cooker Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Casserole
Elevate your slow-cooker game with this satisfying casserole featuring Italian sausage and creamy cannellini beans, perfect for a chilly evening or busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. Italian sausage links
– 1 can (15 oz.) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Place sausage links in the slow cooker.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, red wine (if using), and dried oregano.
3. Stir in cannellini beans.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
6. Remove sausage from slow cooker; slice into coins.
7. Transfer bean mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with sliced sausage and mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Roasted Garlic Italian Sausage and Kale Bake
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines the richness of roasted garlic with spicy Italian sausage and nutritious kale, perfect for a cozy dinner or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 heads of kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, peeled and roasted (see notes)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, cook the Italian sausages over medium-high heat, browning on all sides.
3. Remove the sausages and add the sliced onion; cook until softened.
4. Add the chopped kale, roasted garlic, chicken broth, and olive oil to the pot.
5. Return the sausages to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the sausage is cooked through and the kale is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste; serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Roasting Garlic: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place garlic cloves on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with olive oil, and fold the foil to create a packet. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until soft and mashed.
Triple-Meat Italian Sausage and Tomato Basil Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Italian sausage, tomatoes, and basil for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb triple-meat Italian sausage (pepperoni, salami, and ham), casings removed
– 2 large cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. In a separate dish, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Assemble casserole by layering cooked sausage mixture, then cheese mixture, in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta-Stuffed Italian Sausage and Eggplant Bake
A twist on traditional eggplant parmesan, this recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a creamy surprise. Rich ricotta cheese is stuffed inside savory Italian sausage, then baked with sliced eggplant and melted mozzarella for a satisfying casserole.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 12 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Stuff each sausage with about 2 tablespoons of ricotta cheese.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausages over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Transfer sausages to a baking dish and top with sliced eggplant.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 delicious Italian sausage casserole recipes, perfect for a comforting meal. From classic combinations like pasta bake and lasagna roll-ups to creative twists featuring sun-dried tomatoes and smoked mozzarella, there’s something for every taste. Hearty, satisfying, and easy to make, these casseroles are sure to become new family favorites.
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