As the weather starts to cool down, our cravings for hearty, comforting dishes tend to heat up. And what better way to warm up than with a creamy, cheesy Italian sausage casserole? These 20 recipes are sure to become new family favorites, with a mix of classic comfort food flavors and creative twists on traditional dishes.
From classic pasta bakes to stuffed shells and layered lasagnas, these casseroles are the perfect solution for a quick and easy dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. And with the rich flavor of Italian sausage as the star of the show, you can’t go wrong. So grab your apron and get ready to dig in – we’re about to take comfort food to the next level!
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Potato Casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, potatoes, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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, about 5 minutes.
3. Add potatoes, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the potato mixture. Top with half of the mozzarella cheese.
5. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until potatoes are tender and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage and Pasta Bake
A hearty, one-dish wonder that combines the bold flavors of spicy Italian sausage with al dente pasta and a crispy breadcrumb topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 12 oz pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. Remove sausage from casings and cook in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add marinara sauce to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and mozzarella cheese; season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs.
7. Drizzle olive oil over the top and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Tuscan Sausage and White Bean Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy white beans, and tender pasta in a satisfying and comforting dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as bow tie or macaroni)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 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 a spoon, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cannellini beans, pasta, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking time: 25-30 minutes
Italian Sausage and Spinach Stuffed Shells Casserole
A creative twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe, this casserole combines the flavors of Italian sausage, spinach, and ricotta cheese for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until wilted.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, marinara sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. Stuff each pasta shell with the sausage mixture and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until shells are lightly browned and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Italian Sausage and Rice Bake
This hearty, one-pot dish combines flavorful Italian sausage with aromatic garlic, savory parmesan cheese, and creamy cooked rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a separate pot, combine rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. In a large baking dish, combine cooked sausage mixture, cooked rice, and parmesan cheese. Toss gently to combine.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Italian Sausage Casserole
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the savory taste of Italian sausage. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
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 chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, diced tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Three-Cheese Italian Sausage Lasagna Casserole
A hearty and satisfying casserole that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, melted cheese, and pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
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 and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
3. In separate pot, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce on the bottom. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.
5. Spread the ricotta cheese mixture (Italian sausage, onion, garlic) over the noodles, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Repeat steps 4-5, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and topping with remaining mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Pasta Bake
Roasted Red Pepper and Sausage Pasta Bake: A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines sweet roasted red peppers with savory sausage and pasta, topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
5. Roast red peppers in oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered. Peel off skin and chop into pieces.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, roasted red peppers, and marinara sauce. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Zucchini and Italian Sausage Layered Casserole
A flavorful and nutritious casserole that combines the sweetness of zucchini with the savory taste of Italian sausage. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
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. In a separate skillet, sauté zucchini, onion, and garlic until tender.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers: tomato sauce, sausage mixture, zucchini mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat for two more layers.
5. Top with final layer of mozzarella cheese and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Italian Sausage and Mushroom Bake
A hearty, flavorful casserole that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the earthiness of mushrooms and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the 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 pan, sauté the mushrooms and garlic in olive oil until tender.
4. Combine the cooked sausage and mushroom mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper over the top, followed by the mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Italian Sausage with Mozzarella and Marinara
Elevate your dinner game with this simple and satisfying recipe, featuring baked Italian sausage paired with creamy mozzarella and rich marinara sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup marinara sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the Italian sausages on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each sausage.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the sausages and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through.
6. While the sausages are cooking, place a tablespoon of marinara sauce on top of each sausage.
7. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sausages and marinara sauce.
8. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rustic Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Casserole
Rustic Italian Sausage and Cannellini Bean Casserole: A hearty, comforting dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the simplicity of a one-dish meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in tomatoes, beans, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pesto Italian Sausage and Tortellini Bake
A flavorful and satisfying one-pot meal that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the creamy richness of pesto and cheese, all wrapped up in a deliciously easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 cup tortellini (cheese-filled or meat-filled)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 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 spoon as it cooks.
3. Add pesto to the skillet and stir to combine with the sausage.
4. Add tortellini to the skillet and toss to coat with the sausage-pesto mixture.
5. Transfer the skillet contents to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with mozzarella cheese, then sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Italian Sausage Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the savory flavor of Italian sausage. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 Italian sausages (sweet or hot), casings removed
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 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.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
4. Add sliced onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese; mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Artichoke and Italian Sausage Creamy Bake
A hearty and flavorful casserole that combines the sweetness of artichokes with the savory goodness of Italian sausage. This comforting dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 4 Italian sausages, casings removed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook Italian sausages in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as they cook, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage, artichoke hearts, onion, and garlic.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and a pinch of salt.
5. Pour cream mixture over sausage mixture; stir to combine.
6. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
One-Pan Italian Sausage and Orzo Casserole
A hearty, flavorful casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This recipe combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with the creamy richness of orzo pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup orzo pasta
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook orzo 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. Add diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stir in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and orzo pasta. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Italian Sausage Layers
Elevate your classic eggplant parmesan recipe by adding layers of flavorful Italian sausage for a hearty and satisfying dish. This twist on the Italian-American staple is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Fry eggplant slices in olive oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
3. Cook Italian sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until no longer pink, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Assemble the casserole by layering eggplant slices, Italian sausage mixture, marinara sauce, and cheese (in that order).
5. Top with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Italian Sausage and Veggie Bake
This hearty dish combines sweet Italian sausage with a tangy balsamic glaze, perfectly balanced by the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 zucchinis, sliced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced onion, garlic, bell peppers, zucchinis, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the Italian sausages on top of the vegetables.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the sausages.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the sausages are cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ricotta-Stuffed Italian Sausage Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Italy with a twist: creamy ricotta cheese stuffed inside juicy sausage links. Perfect for a family dinner or potluck, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook sausage links according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parsley, and beaten egg; mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked sausage link with the ricotta mixture.
5. In a large skillet, heat marinara sauce over medium-high heat. Add stuffed sausage links and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
6. Meanwhile, cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
7. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of marinara sauce, followed by stuffed sausage links, and finally lasagna noodles. Repeat this process one more time.
8. Top with remaining marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese; cover with aluminum foil.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Slow-Cooked Italian Sausage and Polenta Casserole
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of rich flavors, tender sausage, and creamy polenta. Simmer all day for an effortless, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup polenta
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking into pieces as it cooks, until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. In a slow cooker, combine cooked sausage, chicken broth, water, polenta, onion, garlic, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Top casserole with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake in the preheated oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, until melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Summary
Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 creamy sausage casserole recipes! From classic combinations to creative twists, each dish combines juicy Italian sausage with comforting ingredients like pasta, potatoes, and cheese. Savor the bold flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, and caramelized onions, or try new pairings like artichoke hearts and pesto. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty lasagna or a quick one-pan meal, these recipes offer something for everyone to enjoy. Let the comforting aromas transport you to Italy with every bite!
