Sausage and Bean Casserole Recipe

If you crave a meal that’s hearty, rustic, and absolutely soul-soothing, this Sausage and Bean Casserole is going to hit all the right notes! Juicy sausages, smoky chorizo, creamy beans, and a rich tomato sauce simmer together until everything is meltingly tender—the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings or a laid-back family gathering.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Sausage and Bean Casserole is in its honest, easy-to-find ingredients—each one plays a starring role, from the smoky meatiness of chorizo to the creamy pinto beans. You don’t need anything fancy, just a handful of pantry and fridge staples that create pure comfort when simmered together.

• Pork Sausages (12): Choose a good-quality, neutral-flavored sausage for the ultimate meaty bite—Cumberland are fantastic. Avoid anything overly herby as it can overpower the sauce.
• Mini Cooking Chorizo (8): These bring a gorgeous smoky, paprika-rich depth. If mini chorizo are hard to come by, just cut a whole one into hearty chunks!
• Peeled Plum Tomatoes (2x400g cans): These dice up beautifully right in the can and become the backbone of your casserole sauce.
• Pinto Beans (2x400g cans): Creamy and mild, they soak up all those savory flavors—substitute butter beans or cannellini if you like.
• Beef Stock (1 cup/250ml) + Cornstarch: A splash of beef stock, thickened ever-so-slightly, helps the sauce become beautifully luscious.
• Red Wine (1/2 cup/125ml): Adds body and richness; a little goes a long way, but it’s worth it!
• Worcestershire Sauce (3 tbsp): For a tangy, umami boost—don’t skip it!
• Tomato Puree (2 heaped tbsp): Tomato paste brings a serious punch of flavor and helps deepen the sauce’s color and taste.
• Red Peppers (2): These soften and sweeten as they simmer, adding wonderful color and veggie goodness.
• Garlic (2 cloves): Savory, aromatic, and absolutely essential for flavor base.
• Large Onion (1): When sautéed, it forms a sweet, savory foundation for the sauce.
• BBQ Sauce (1 tbsp): For a subtle smoky-sweet undertone that ties everything together—trust me, it works!
• Smoked Paprika (1 tsp): This complements the chorizo’s flavor, infusing even more warmth and depth.
• Bay Leaves (2) & Rosemary (1 sprig): These infuse the casserole with gentle herbal notes as it bubbles away.
• Salt & Pepper, to taste: Essential for highlighting all those rich, savory flavors.
• Olive Oil, as needed: For browning and sauteing—it all starts here!

Variations

One of the best things about Sausage and Bean Casserole is how incredibly versatile it is. Whether you’re looking to suit different diets or just use up what’s already in your kitchen, there are loads of ways to tweak this recipe so it fits your table perfectly.

• Switch Up the Beans: Cannellini, butterbeans, or even kidney beans work wonderfully if pinto beans aren’t on hand.
• Spice Lover’s Kick: Add a chopped chili or a dash of chili flakes to the sauce for extra heat and a bolder flavor.
• Go Vegetarian: Omit the sausages and chorizo, then use veggie sausages and add smoked tofu or a handful more beans for a meatless, equally hearty twist.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in diced carrots, celery, or even a handful of spinach at the end for an added veggie boost.
• Use Different Sausages: Try chicken, turkey, or even spicy Italian sausages if that’s what you love or have on hand.

How to Make Sausage and Bean Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Sausages and Chorizo

Start by heating a generous splash of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high. Add the pork sausages, letting them sizzle and take on a deep golden color—don’t rush this part! Once they’re starting to brown, add in the mini chorizo and keep turning until everything has a gloriously caramelized exterior. Remove them to a plate for now; don’t worry, they’ll finish cooking in the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Lower the heat a tad, then use the delicious leftover fat to soften your onions, red peppers, and garlic. Let them cook until they’re softened, sweet, and just caramelized—this creates a super-flavorful base that’s key to the whole dish.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Stir in the tomato puree and let it cook for a minute, which intensifies the tomato flavor. Deglaze with red wine, scraping any tasty brown bits off the bottom, and let it reduce for a few minutes. Pour in your beef stock (with cornstarch for thickening), then pour in the diced tomatoes (juice and all), Worcestershire sauce, BBQ sauce, smoked paprika, bay leaves, rosemary, plus salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir.

Step 4: Simmer the Casserole

Return the sausages and chorizo to the pot, nestling them down into that gorgeous sauce. Cover with a lid, lower the heat, and now—let it gently bubble away for 1 hour 30 minutes. This long, slow simmer is absolutely vital, as it develops incredible flavor and ensures every ingredient is melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 5: Add Beans & Finish

Once the timer hits 90 minutes, remove the lid and stir in your drained beans. Allow everything to simmer, uncovered, for about another 10 minutes so the sauce thickens and hugs every bite. Fish out the bay leaves and rosemary stalk, then you’re ready to dish up!

How to Serve Sausage and Bean Casserole

Garnishes

This hearty casserole is extra-wonderful when finished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of green. A dusting of cracked black pepper or a few chili flakes can also brighten things up. For a real treat, shave over a bit of parmesan or drizzle with fruity olive oil right before serving.

Side Dishes

Nothing beats serving Sausage and Bean Casserole with an indulgent mound of creamy mashed potatoes—especially if you fortify them with a generous swirl of mustard! Thick slices of rustic bread (think crusty sourdough) work beautifully to mop up the sauce, but fluffy white rice or even buttered polenta make fabulous alternatives.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elevated presentation, try ladling individual portions into wide bowls and topping each with a halved sausage and a little fresh herb. Serve in your favorite Dutch oven or cast-iron skillet at the table for that classic, rustic vibe. Or, tuck into small oven-safe dishes and broil with a light cheese crust for mini, bubbling gratins!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Sausage and Bean Casserole is a total gift—you’ll often find the flavors deepen overnight. Simply let the casserole cool, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The texture stays perfect, and the beans get even tastier!

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Just divide into freezer-safe containers, let cool completely, and freeze for up to 3 months. Defrost thoroughly in the fridge before reheating for the best consistency and flavor.

Reheating

To reheat, place portions in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock if the sauce seems very thick. Warm gently, stirring now and then, until piping hot. For single servings, the microwave also does the trick nicely—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring between each.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dinner that’s as cozy and welcoming as a hug from an old friend, Sausage and Bean Casserole is your answer. Trust me—once you’ve had a bowl, you’ll want to make it again and again. I can’t wait for you to experience the comfort and flavor in every bite!

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