If you are looking for a comforting, hearty, and easy-to-make meal, then the Mary Berry Sausage & Red Pepper Casserole is the perfect dish for you. This dish is a classic British-style casserole that combines juicy sausages, sweet red peppers, and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a meal that is warming without being heavy, gently savory with a touch of natural sweetness, and ideal for family dinners or make-ahead meals.
Why This Recipe is So Popular
Over the years, Mary Berry has become a household name in British kitchens. Known for her approachable recipes and expert cooking tips, she makes even the most intimidating meals accessible. The Sausage & Red Pepper Casserole is one of her standout recipes because it’s simple, flavorful, and doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Many home cooks, including myself, have found this dish a lifesaver on busy weeknights. Once, I tried making it for a family gathering, and it was a huge hit — everyone kept asking for the recipe!
This recipe uses everyday ingredients and relies on basic cooking techniques, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. Plus, it comes together in about an hour, which is perfect for those evenings when you want a home-cooked meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make the Mary Berry Sausage & Red Pepper Casserole, you will need:
- Sausages – 8 (pork or chicken sausages work well)
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Onion – 1 large, sliced
- Red peppers – 2, deseeded and sliced
- Garlic cloves – 2, crushed
- Plain flour – 1 tablespoon
- Tomato purée – 1 tablespoon
- Chopped tomatoes – 1 × 400 g tin
- Chicken stock – 300 ml
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavors. The sausages add richness and savoriness, while the red peppers bring a natural sweetness that complements the tomato sauce beautifully.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Cooking this Mary Berry Casserole is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s a detailed step-by-step guide to help you master the dish.
1. Browning the Sausages
Start by heating olive oil in a large casserole pan. Add the sausages and cook until they are nicely browned all over. This step is crucial because browning enhances the flavor and ensures that your sausages remain juicy. Once browned, remove the sausages and set them aside.
2. Cooking the Vegetables
In the same pan, add sliced onions and red peppers. Cook them gently over medium heat until softened. This slow cooking brings out their natural sweetness and creates a rich base for the sauce. Adding garlic at this stage will give the dish a lovely aromatic depth. Cook the crushed garlic briefly until fragrant.
3. Building the Sauce
Sprinkle plain flour over the vegetables and stir well. This helps thicken the sauce later on. Then, add tomato purée, chopped tomatoes, and chicken stock, followed by paprika. Stir everything together until smooth. The sauce should start to thicken as it cooks.
4. Combining Sausages and Sauce
Return the browned sausages to the pan, ensuring they are fully covered by the sauce. This allows them to continue cooking slowly, absorbing the flavors of the sauce.
5. Simmering Gently
Cover the pan and let the casserole simmer gently for 30–35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the sauce thickens naturally, and the sausages become tender and flavorful. For a thicker sauce, you can simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes.
6. Seasoning and Serving
Taste the casserole and add salt and black pepper as needed. Serve your Mary Berry Sausage & Red Pepper Casserole with mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or crusty bread. A side of green beans or a simple salad adds freshness and balances the rich flavors.
Tips for the Perfect Casserole
- Brown the sausages properly – This adds flavor and keeps them juicy.
- Cook gently – Slow simmering prevents splitting and maintains texture.
- Taste before serving – Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Rest briefly – Allowing the casserole to rest for a few minutes helps flavors settle.
- Use a heavy pan – Ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
Healthier Version
For a lighter version, consider using lean sausages or chicken sausages and reduce the oil slightly. You can also increase the number of peppers or add extra tomatoes to bulk up the dish without adding heaviness.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Yellow or orange peppers can replace red peppers for a slightly different flavor.
- Smoked paprika adds depth and warmth.
- Vegetable stock can be used instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Creative Twists
- Add beans – Cannellini or butter beans make the casserole even more filling.
- Herb finish – Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme before serving.
- Spicy kick – A pinch of chili flakes adds heat.
- Creamy touch – Stir in a spoon of crème fraîche for richness.
- Oven-baked – Transfer the casserole to an ovenproof dish and bake for a slightly different texture.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration – Keep covered for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Portion and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm gently on the hob over low heat, adding a splash of stock if needed.
Nutritional Information
Per serving, this dish contains approximately 480 kcal, 22 g carbohydrates, 32 g fat, 24 g protein, and 8 g sugar. This makes it a balanced, satisfying meal suitable for both adults and children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do sausages split or dry out?
Sausages often split if cooked too quickly over high heat. Browning gently and simmering slowly keeps them juicy.
Should sausages be fully cooked before adding to the casserole?
No, light browning is enough. The casserole sauce finishes the cooking, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
How can I thicken the sauce?
Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes or ensure you coat the vegetables with flour before adding liquids.
Can this casserole be made ahead?
Absolutely! The flavors actually improve after resting for a day.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed potatoes – Classic pairing that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Steamed rice – Perfect for a lighter option.
- Crusty bread – Ideal for dipping.
- Green beans or salad – Adds freshness and balance.
Anecdote
I remember the first time I tried this recipe; it was a rainy Sunday afternoon. The smell of sausages browning in the pan mixed with sweet peppers and garlic filled the kitchen, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. When my family gathered around the table, everyone’s eyes lit up. Even the picky eaters went back for seconds. That’s when I realized that a simple, well-made casserole can turn an ordinary day into something memorable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
The Mary Berry Sausage & Red Pepper Casserole is more than just a meal; it’s comfort in a pan. It’s easy enough for busy weeknights, impressive enough for family gatherings, and flexible enough to accommodate dietary tweaks. With its rich sauce, tender sausages, and gentle sweetness from peppers, this casserole embodies everything great about home cooking.
For more on Mary Berry’s cooking tips, you can explore her collection of recipes and expert advice that make home cooking simpler and more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, the Mary Berry Sausage & Red Pepper Casserole is a recipe worth trying. It combines classic British flavors with modern convenience, making it a reliable dish that pleases both children and adults alike. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that will likely become a favorite in your household.
