Easy Italian Sausage Casserole
A hearty, cheesy Italian sausage casserole packed with green beans, olives, and flavorful cheeses, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook sausage and chopped onion in a 10-inch skillet, stirring frequently, until the sausage is browned; drain excess fat.
- Rinse the frozen Italian green beans with cold water to separate them.
- Stir in uncooked macaroni, Zesty Italian sauce mix, green beans, hot water, sliced ripe olives, and garlic powder into the skillet.
- Heat the mixture to boiling over medium-high heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Cover and let stand for 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like basil and oregano. If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for hot Italian sausage. For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of water. To enhance the dish, you can also throw in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms, inspired by Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, serve with a side of Marcella's Mushrooms. A glass of red wine would also elevate the dining experience, making it a perfect weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, you can reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy Italian Sausage Casserole contains roughly 549 calories, with 30g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 29g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (60% of the Daily Value), calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1060mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used instead of frozen. Just be sure to trim and cut them to a similar size as the frozen beans, and adjust the cooking time slightly as fresh beans may require a few extra minutes to become tender.
What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use provolone or even feta for a different flavor profile. Cheddar cheese can also work, but it will change the overall taste of the dish. Just ensure the cheese melts well for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you're ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).