Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Sausage and Peppers Spaghetti Squash Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 90 reviews

  • Author: Patricia
  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Diet: Low Carb

Description

This Sausage and Peppers Spaghetti Squash Casserole is a hearty, flavorful, and low-carb dish that combines roasted spaghetti squash with savory Italian sausage and colorful bell peppers, all baked together with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. A perfect comfort meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with vibrant, Italian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Spaghetti Squash

  • 1 medium spaghetti squash
  • Olive oil, for cooking
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Sausage and Vegetable Mixture

  • 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Cheese Topping

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for roasting the spaghetti squash and later baking the casserole.
  2. Prepare the Spaghetti Squash: Slice the spaghetti squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Brush the inside with olive oil, then season generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Roast the Squash: Place the squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the flesh is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  4. Cook the Sausage: While the squash is roasting, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until it is fully browned and cooked through.
  5. Add Vegetables: Stir in the diced onion, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for around 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Continue cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
  6. Combine Ingredients: Pour the can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet and stir well to combine with the sausage and vegetables. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
  7. Scrape the Squash: Once roasted, carefully take the spaghetti squash halves out of the oven and use a fork to scrape the flesh into spaghetti-like strands, transferring them into a large mixing bowl.
  8. Mix It All Together: Add half of the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese into the bowl with the spaghetti squash strands. Pour in the sausage and pepper mixture as well, and mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
  9. Transfer to Casserole Dish: Grease a casserole dish, then pour the combined mixture into it, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top for a cheesy crust.
  10. Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole dish in the oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, golden, and bubbly.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious and comforting spaghetti squash casserole!

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, use spicy Italian sausage or increase the red pepper flakes.
  • You can prepare the spaghetti squash ahead by roasting it a day in advance.
  • Substitute mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
  • Feel free to add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Find it online: https://patriciarecipes.com/sausage-and-peppers-spaghetti-squash-casserole-recipe/