Do Share Recipe

I’ve always loved cozy, one-pot meals, and this Easy Sausage Casserole Recipe quickly became my go-to comfort food. The combination of savory sausages, smoky paprika, and tender vegetables makes it irresistible. Every time I make it, my kitchen fills with a warm, inviting aroma that promises a hearty meal. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner yet special enough for family gatherings.

I love how it’s filling, flavorful, and easy to adapt to what I have in the fridge. You can also enjoy similar indulgent desserts like Fruity Pebbles Cheesecake Tacos Recipe for a sweet finish after a hearty meal.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious sausage casserole, along with some tips I’ve picked up from experience:

2 tbsp olive or rapeseed oil – for browning and adding richness.
1 onion, finely chopped – adds natural sweetness and depth.
2 medium sticks celery, finely chopped – for crunch and subtle flavor.
1 yellow pepper, chopped – brightens the dish and adds sweetness.
1 red pepper, chopped – balances color and taste.
6 cooking chorizo sausages (about 400g) – choose high-quality chorizo for smoky flavor.
6 pork sausages (about 400g) – I prefer sausages with natural casings for texture.
3 fat garlic cloves, chopped – fresh garlic works best, don’t use pre-minced.
1 ½ tsp sweet smoked paprika – essential for that signature smoky note.
½ tsp ground cumin – adds subtle warmth.
1 tbsp dried thyme – balances the richness of the sausages.
125ml white wine – enhances flavor; you can use stock if preferred.
2 x 400g cans cherry or chopped tomatoes – use quality canned tomatoes for better taste.
2 sprigs fresh thyme – for aromatic freshness.
1 chicken stock cube – adds depth and rounds out the flavors.
1 x 400g can aduki beans, drained and rinsed – swaps easily for cannellini or butter beans.
1 bunch chives, snipped (optional) – adds color and a mild oniony finish.

Note: Serves 4–6 people.

Variations

I love experimenting with casseroles, and here are a few twists I’ve tried:

Dairy-free: Serve with a dairy-free mash or crusty bread instead of cheese toppings.
Extra spice: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a hot paprika to give it a kick.
Vegetarian option: Replace sausages with smoked tofu or plant-based sausages.
Flavor boost: Toss in some roasted sweet potato or mushrooms for extra depth.

Cooking Time

I’ve timed this recipe perfectly so it’s easy to fit into any schedule:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Equipment You Need

Here’s what I use every time I make this casserole:

Large ovenproof casserole dish – for one-pot cooking and easy transfer to the oven.
Wooden spoon – to sauté vegetables without scratching the dish.
Chef’s knife – for chopping vegetables and sausages neatly.
Can opener – for tomatoes and beans.
Measuring spoons & cup – ensures accurate seasoning and liquid balance.

How to Make Easy Sausage Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Sausages and Vegetables

Start by slicing the sausages and chopping all your vegetables. This makes cooking smooth and stress-free. I like to keep ingredients organized in small bowls.

Step 2: Brown the Sausages

Heat oil in your casserole dish, then fry the sausages until golden. This locks in flavor and creates a savory base. Don’t rush this step—it makes a big difference.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Add onions, celery, peppers, and garlic to the pan. Cook until softened, letting the natural sweetness come through. I usually stir gently so nothing sticks or burns.

Step 4: Add Spices and Herbs

Sprinkle in paprika, cumin, and dried thyme. Stir for a minute to release the aromas. Fresh thyme sprigs go in next for a fragrant layer.

Step 5: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in white wine and let it reduce slightly. Then add canned tomatoes, chicken stock cube, and beans. Give everything a good mix.

Step 6: Bake in the Oven

Cover your casserole and bake at 180°C (350°F) for around 45 minutes to 1 hour. The sausages should be cooked through, and the sauce thickened.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Snip over fresh chives if desired. I love how it adds a pop of color and freshness to this hearty dish. Serve straight from the oven for maximum comfort.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

From my experience, small tweaks make a big difference:

I like to brown sausages in batches to avoid overcrowding—they crisp better this way.
Let the casserole rest 5 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce naturally.
Taste and adjust seasoning before baking for perfect flavor balance.
For a richer flavor, I sometimes add a splash of balsamic vinegar near the end. You can also pair this meal with lighter desserts like Strawberry Oreo Cheesecake Cup for an easy treat that complements the savory flavors.

How to Serve Easy Sausage Casserole

This casserole is versatile in how you serve it. I usually:

Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
Garnish with fresh herbs like chives or parsley for a vibrant look.
Serve in warm bowls to keep the meal cozy and comforting.

Nutritional Information

Here’s what you can expect per serving (approximate, based on 6 servings):

Calories: 641 kcal – hearty and filling, perfect for dinner.
Protein: 28 g – thanks to the sausages and beans.
Carbohydrates: 23 g – mostly from vegetables and beans.
Fat: 43 g – rich and satisfying, especially from sausages.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing

This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. I usually store it in an airtight container.

Freezing

It freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. I recommend freezing in individual portions for easy defrosting.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until piping hot. I like to cover it with foil to prevent drying out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this sausage casserole has become my favorite comfort meal:

Easy preparation: Minimal chopping and one-pot cooking make it stress-free.
Hearty and filling: Packed with protein, beans, and veggies for a complete meal.
Versatile: Works with different sausages, vegetables, or even vegetarian swaps.
Flavorful: Smoky paprika and fresh herbs create a rich, layered taste.
Family-friendly: Everyone loves it—kids and adults alike, perfect for busy evenings.

This easy sausage casserole is exactly the kind of dish I reach for when I want warmth, flavor, and comfort on the table. Every bite feels like a hug, and the leftovers (if there are any!) taste even better the next day.

Ben Carraoli