Hearty Sausage Casserole

This hearty sausage casserole brings warmth and comfort to every bite with its rich blend of vegetables and flavorful sausage. It has become one of our family staples especially during cooler seasons when something hearty and nutritious is needed. The way the flavors meld together always reminds me how cozy food can truly transform a mealtime.

Ingredients

• Onion: chopped for a sweet base flavor as it softens
• Garlic: crushed to boost the depth of flavor
• Butternut squash: cubed for a natural creamy texture and sweetness
• Low calorie sausages: Italian turkey preferred for balanced richness
• Red and green peppers: sliced for color and mild sweetness
• Courgette: zucchini adds moisture and gentle bite
• Frozen peas: quick to use and add a pop of freshness
• Tomato paste: to concentrate richness and bind flavors
• Mixed herbs: to introduce a subtle earthy blend
• Balsamic vinegar: to balance the dish with a hint of tang
• Tabasco sauce: for a touch of heat
• Chicken or vegetable stock: ensures moisture and flavor carrying
• Cannellini beans: creamy texture and plant-based protein
• Low calorie spray oil: for healthier sautéing
• Salt and black pepper: to fine tune seasoning
• Fresh parsley: to finish with brightness and freshness

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Sausages:

Spray a large casserole dish with oil and heat over medium. Add sausages and brown gently on all sides until just colored. Remove and set aside. This step locks in flavor and keeps them firm during simmering

Soften the Onion:

Spray the same pan again and add the chopped onion. Cook over medium low for about two minutes until the pieces begin to turn translucent. This builds the base flavor

Deglaze the Pan:

Pour in the balsamic vinegar and a splash of the stock. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up the caramelized bits stuck to the bottom. This adds savory depth

Layer the Vegetables:

Add the butternut squash peppers garlic herbs tomato paste and tabasco. Stir everything together then pour in the rest of the stock and the canned beans with their juice. The liquid will help the ingredients mingle evenly

Simmer with the Sausages:

Return the browned sausages to the pan. Lower the heat cover the dish and let it simmer gently for forty minutes. The flavors deepen and everything softens perfectly

Finish with Tender Veg:

In the final five minutes add the frozen peas and sliced courgette. Let them soften just enough to keep some texture while taking on the sauce’s flavor

Season and Serve:

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley just before serving to add a fresh final note

Storage Tips

Let the casserole cool completely before storing

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days

Freezes well for up to one month and reheats best on the stovetop over low heat

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I love using the Italian turkey sausages here because their seasoning complements the vegetables so well. The first time I made this it filled the house with the kind of aroma that had everyone asking what time dinner would be

Ingredient Substitutions

Use any mild white beans like navy or butter beans if cannellini are unavailable

If you don’t have butternut squash try sweet potatoes or carrots in similar sized cubes

Regular pork sausages work too just balance the fat level with less oil in the pan

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the sauce

Mashed potatoes or fluffy rice can turn it into a heartier dinner

A crisp green salad on the side adds refreshing contrast

Cultural Note

Casseroles like this one have deep roots in British and European home cooking. They’re built for economy using simple ingredients in a one pot style that feels timeless

Frequently Asked Questions About Recipes

→ What's the best type of sausage to use?

For lower calories, turkey or chicken sausages are ideal. Italian-style varieties offer great flavor, but any quality sausage works well.

→ My casserole seems too watery - what can I do?

Simmer uncovered for the final 10–15 minutes to reduce liquid. Mashing a few beans can also help thicken the sauce.

→ Can I use a slow cooker for this dish?

Yes, brown sausages first, then cook all ingredients on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add peas and courgette near the end.

→ What can I serve with this casserole?

Enjoy it on its own or pair with crusty bread, rice, mashed potatoes, or a light salad for a complete meal.

→ How do I prevent sausages from splitting?

Brown sausages gently without piercing them. Ensure frozen sausages are fully thawed before cooking to prevent splitting.

→ Can I use fresh beans instead of canned?

Yes, soak dried beans overnight and cook until tender before adding. This adds time but works well in the recipe.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, but always check sausage and stock labels for hidden gluten ingredients like breadcrumbs or additives.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase tabasco sauce, add fresh chili, or use spicy sausage. Red pepper flakes or cayenne also boost heat.

→ The butternut squash isn’t cooking through—what should I do?

Ensure it's cut into small cubes. Continue simmering with the lid on until the squash is tender all the way through.