Simple Sausage Casserole Recipe

This Simple Sausage Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of sausages with the warmth of Mediterranean spices and the freshness of vegetables. It’s a perfect blend of savory and slightly spicy elements, making it a delightful meal for any occasion. The casserole’s cultural significance lies in its ability to bring people together, much like traditional family gatherings where everyone shares a warm, satisfying meal. The combination of sausages, beans, and vegetables creates a filling and nutritious meal that is both easy to prepare and enjoyable to eat.

Ingredients

• 600 g (1.3 lb) sausages (pork or your choice), cut into 1-inch pieces
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 large brown/yellow onion, cut in half and finely sliced into half moons
• 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 400 g (14 oz) tomato passata
• 250 ml (1 cup) water
• ½ teaspoon dried red chilli pepper flakes (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 large zucchini/courgette, cut into 1 cm slices (⅓″) wide
• 1 large red capsicum/bell pepper, cut into 1 cm (⅓”) squares
• 400 g (14 oz) tinned cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. : Preheat your oven to 180°C (355°F).
2. Brown the Sausages: In a large, heavy-based Dutch Oven or oven-safe saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cut sausages and lightly brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the sausages from the pan and set aside.
3. Cook the Onion and Garlic: Turn the heat down to low and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the pan. Add the onion and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the garlic and cook for a further minute, stirring to prevent burning.
4. Return Sausages and Add Flavors: Return the sausages to the pan. Add the tomato passata, water, rosemary, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add Vegetables: Add the zucchini and capsicum to the pan. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Finish with Beans: Stir in the cannellini beans.
7. Bake: Cover the dish with the lid and place it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.

Top Tips

• Use Quality Sausages: Choose sausages with a good balance of flavor and texture.
• Adjust Spice Level: Tailor the amount of red pepper flakes to your desired level of spiciness.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh rosemary adds a distinct flavor; use it if possible.
• Don’t Overcook: Ensure the vegetables retain some crunch.
• Serve with Bread: Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
• Experiment with Beans: Try using different types of beans for varying textures.

Variations

• Spicy Sausage Casserole: Add diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Italian-Style: Use Italian sausages and add some chopped olives.
• Veggie-Packed: Add more vegetables like carrots or mushrooms.
• White Bean Version: Use cannellini beans and add some chopped spinach.
• Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs and diced bell peppers for a breakfast casserole.
• Smoky Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky depth.

Nutritional Guide

Additional nutritional notes: This casserole is rich in protein from the sausages and beans, making it a satisfying meal. The vegetables add fiber and vitamins, while the olive oil contributes healthy fats. It’s a balanced meal suitable for a variety of dietary needs, though it can be adjusted to suit specific preferences by altering the type of sausages or adding more vegetables.