Spicy Sausage Casserole
A hearty and flavorful spicy sausage casserole with cheesy topping, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, combining savory sausage, vegetables, and pasta with a touch of heat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sausage in a skillet, then pour off the fat.
- Reduce heat; add chopped green pepper, chopped onion, uncooked macaroni, canned tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
- Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Spoon the mixture into a buttered 2-quart casserole dish.
- Sprinkle Cheddar cheese over the top.
- Place under the broiler until the cheese melts.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using spicy Italian sausage instead of regular sausage. You can substitute the macaroni with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or rotini. If you're looking to lighten the dish, opt for a lower-fat cheese or a dairy-free alternative. Adding a splash of hot sauce can also enhance the spice level. This casserole is similar to other comforting American recipes, making it a versatile dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this spicy sausage casserole with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to balance the richness. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten the dish. This hearty meal pairs beautifully with Layer Bars for dessert, creating a satisfying end to your dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, but be sure to cover them to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Sausage Casserole contains roughly 186 calories, with 9g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (244% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2423mg per serving (105% 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 make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it's heated through.
What can I use instead of canned tomatoes?
If you prefer fresh tomatoes, you can use about 4 cups of diced tomatoes. Just keep in mind that you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they break down properly.
Is it possible to freeze the casserole?
Absolutely! After cooking, allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake until hot.
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).