When it comes to creating a dish that is both hearty and packed with flavor, this oven-baked sausage and vegetable casserole is a winner. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, offering a comforting blend of ingredients that will leave everyone satisfied. Here’s how you can make this delightful recipe.
Ingredients:
- 300 grams of sausage, sliced
- 2 bell peppers (one red, one yellow), chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
- 6 eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Begin by slicing 300 grams of sausage into thin pieces. The choice of sausage can vary based on your preference—anything from Italian sausage to chorizo works well.
- Chop the bell peppers, onion, and tomatoes. These vegetables will add vibrant color and fresh flavors to the casserole.
- Sauté the Sausage:
- In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage to the skillet and sauté until they are browned and slightly crispy. This step will help to enhance the sausage’s flavor and texture.
- Once the sausage is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the chopped bell peppers and continue to sauté for about 5 minutes until they are tender.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the vegetables are evenly cooked.
- Season the vegetables with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a medium bowl, crack six eggs and whisk them together until they are well beaten.
- Add one cup of milk to the eggs and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
- Season the egg mixture with one teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and one teaspoon of dried oregano. Whisk to combine all the seasonings thoroughly.
- Assemble the Casserole:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
- Grease a large baking dish with a small amount of olive oil or non-stick cooking spray.
- Spread the sautéed vegetables evenly on the bottom of the baking dish.
- Sprinkle the cooked sausage pieces over the vegetables, ensuring an even distribution.
- Add the Egg Mixture:
- Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables and sausage in the baking dish. Use a spatula to ensure that the egg mixture spreads evenly and covers all the ingredients.
- Sprinkle one cup of grated mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole. The cheese will melt and create a delicious, golden crust as it bakes.
- Bake the Casserole:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the eggs are fully set and the top is golden brown.
- To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the casserole. If it comes out clean, the casserole is ready.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and added flavor.
- Cut the casserole into squares or slices and serve warm.
Tips and Variations:
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables to this casserole, such as spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. This will increase the nutritional value and add more flavor and texture.
- Cheese Variations: If you prefer a different type of cheese, try cheddar, feta, or even a blend of cheeses. Each type will bring a unique flavor to the dish.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the vegetable mixture.
- Protein Options: While sausage adds a robust flavor, you can also use other proteins such as cooked bacon, ham, or even leftover cooked chicken.
Health Benefits:
- Sausage: Provides a good source of protein and is rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12 and iron.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, fiber, and antioxidants that promote overall health.
- Eggs: A great source of high-quality protein, eggs also contain essential nutrients such as vitamin D, choline, and selenium.
This oven-baked sausage and vegetable casserole is a versatile, flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, packed with nutritious ingredients, and perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this casserole is bound to impress. Enjoy
