Bean and Sausage Bake is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any occasion. This hearty casserole combines the flavors of beans, sausage, and vegetables in a savory sauce, resulting in a mouthwatering meal that the whole family will love.
Whether you are hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a comforting weeknight dinner idea, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients
For this Bean and Sausage Bake recipe, you will need the following ingredients:.
- 1 pound of sausage, preferably Italian or smoked sausage
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cans of beans, such as cannellini or navy beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 cup of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare the Bean and Sausage Bake:.
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Sauté the sausage
In a large skillet, sauté the sausage over medium heat until browned. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Combine the ingredients
Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet, along with the drained beans, diced tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Season and simmer
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Transfer to a baking dish
Transfer the sausage and bean mixture to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking.
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Step 7: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the dish is heated through.
Step 8: Serve and enjoy
Remove the Bean and Sausage Bake from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese, if desired. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad.
Variations
There are endless possibilities for customizing this Bean and Sausage Bake recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations to consider:.
1. Vegetarian Version
If you prefer a vegetarian dish, simply omit the sausage and substitute it with additional vegetables or vegetarian sausage alternatives.
2. Spice it up
If you enjoy spicy flavors, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sausage and bean mixture for an extra kick.
3. Cheesy Topping
For a cheesy twist, sprinkle grated cheese on top of the casserole during the last few minutes of baking. Allow the cheese to melt and turn golden brown.
4. Herb Variations
Feel free to experiment with different herbs to enhance the flavor of the dish. Try adding fresh rosemary, basil, or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Conclusion
Bean and Sausage Bake is a versatile and satisfying dish that is easy to prepare and guaranteed to please. With its hearty combination of beans, sausage, and vegetables, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Whether you follow the recipe as-is or add your own personal touch, this delicious dish is sure to become a family favorite.
