Go Back
+ servings
Slow-Cooked Sausage and Vegetable Casserole

Comforting Slow-Cooked Sausage and Vegetable Casserole Bliss

A hearty Slow-Cooked Sausage and Vegetable Casserole that combines savory sausage with fresh vegetables for a comforting meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Enhances browning and adds richness; substitute with any neutral oil.
  • 1 pound Italian Sausage Provides depth and backbone flavor to the dish; can substitute with chicken, turkey, or spicy chorizo.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds sweetness and a base flavor; shallots can be used if preferred.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Enhances overall flavor profile; fresh is recommended, but garlic powder can suffice in a pinch.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 medium Carrots Adds sweetness and texture; substitute with parsnips for a different flavor.
  • 2 cups Potatoes Provides heartiness and serves as a base for the meal; sweet potatoes can be a tasty alternative.
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Contributes sweetness and color; any color is suitable, though poblano can be used for extra heat.
  • 1 medium Zucchini Adds moisture and a mild flavor; swap with yellow squash or omit if necessary.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes Adds acidity and moisture; use fresh tomatoes if preferred, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
  • 1 cup Frozen Peas Introduces sweetness and color; can be omitted if unavailable.
For Flavoring
  • 4 cups Vegetable Broth Adds depth of flavor; chicken broth can be used for a non-vegetarian version.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Provides classic Italian flavor; fresh herbs can enhance aroma significantly.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Provides classic Italian flavor; fresh herbs can enhance aroma significantly.
  • to taste Salt Essential seasonings for balancing flavors; adjust according to taste.
  • to taste Pepper Essential seasonings for balancing flavors; adjust according to taste.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Adds freshness to the presentation; optional, but enhances visual appeal.

Equipment

  • skillet
  • Slow Cooker

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes. Add the sausage, ensuring the oil coats the bottom of the pan for proper browning.
  2. Add your Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Brown the sausage for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and cooked through. Transfer browned sausage into your slow cooker.
  3. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. Transfer this mixture to the slow cooker, mixing it with the browned sausage.
  4. Combine chopped carrots, diced potatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini in the slow cooker. Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
  5. Gently stir all ingredients in the slow cooker until evenly combined. Set to low and cover. Cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
  6. About 15 minutes before serving, lift the lid and stir in frozen peas. Keep the cooker covered to maintain warmth while everything melds together.
  7. When ready, stir the casserole, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 150IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 4mg

Notes

For best results, avoid lifting the lid too often while cooking.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!