Grilled Sausage Casserole Recipe: A Simple and Flavorful One-Dish Meal
When time is tight, and you need to get a delicious dinner on the table with minimal effort, this Grilled Sausage Casserole is the perfect solution. Whether you’re using your outdoor grill or the oven, this one-dish meal is so simple to assemble, yet full of flavor. You can make it in a flash, and the best part is that it doesn’t require constant attention. It’s the ultimate meal for those busy days when dinner seems impossible to plan ahead.
Perfect for a summer evening when you want to keep the house cool by using the grill, or for a quick and easy family dinner any time of year, this hearty casserole combines smoked sausage, fresh vegetables, and herbs. The result is a savory, satisfying dish that’s equally delicious served with rice or pasta.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Smoked sausage | 1 | Sliced into bite-sized pieces |
| Eggplant | 1 | Cleaned and cut into chunks |
| Green zucchini | 1/2 | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Yellow zucchini | 2 | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Russet potatoes | 1 | Scrubbed (or peeled) and cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Fresh parsley | 1 | Chopped for garnish |
| Coarse salt | 6-8 | To taste |
| Pepper | 1/4 | To taste |
| Garlic powder | 1 | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 932.4 kcal |
| Fat | 68 g |
| Saturated fat | 23.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 164.5 mg |
| Sodium | 2307.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 39 g |
| Dietary fiber | 5.4 g |
| Sugars | 3.4 g |
| Protein | 40.3 g |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Grill or Oven
Start by preheating your grill. If you are using a charcoal grill, get the coals ready; if you’re using a gas grill, set it to medium heat. Alternatively, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the grill or oven is heating, you can prep your ingredients.
Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients
Scrub the potatoes well (or peel them if you prefer), then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Clean and slice the zucchini and eggplant into chunks that are just larger than bite-sized. This will help them cook evenly. Cut the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces as well.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
In a large metal 9×13 baking pan (a disposable aluminum pan works great for grilling), lightly coat the bottom with shortening or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Start by layering the potatoes at the bottom of the pan. Then add the zucchini, eggplant, and sausage on top. It might look like a big mound, but don’t worry—it’ll cook down and blend beautifully.
Step 4: Season and Cover
Sprinkle the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and fresh parsley over the top. The seasoning will infuse into the vegetables and sausage as they cook. Once everything is seasoned, cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. Use a fork to poke a couple of small holes in the top of the foil to allow steam to escape while it cooks.
Step 5: Cook on the Grill or in the Oven
Place the pan on the grill (or in the oven) and let it cook for 20-30 minutes. The exact time will depend on your grill’s heat or your oven’s temperature, so check for doneness after 20 minutes. You’ll want the potatoes to be fork-tender and the sausage to be browned and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Once the casserole is done, remove it from the grill or oven. Let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of rice or pasta to round out the meal. The combination of smoky sausage, tender vegetables, and savory seasoning will have your family asking for seconds.
Tips & Variations
- Grill Tips: If you prefer grilling, use a sturdy metal pan for better heat distribution, or even wrap the ingredients in heavy-duty foil and cook it directly on the grill for a slightly smoky flavor.
- Sausage Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage, such as spicy chorizo, chicken sausage, or even vegetarian sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or onions for more color and flavor.
- Cheese Lover’s Twist: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a melty, gooey finish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity. With only a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, it’s perfect for busy nights.
- Versatile: You can switch out the vegetables and sausage to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
- Flavorful: The combination of smoked sausage, fresh vegetables, and simple seasonings creates a rich, savory dish that’s bound to satisfy.
- Grill or Oven-Friendly: Whether you’re firing up the grill or cooking indoors, this casserole works for any cooking method.
Final Thoughts
This Grilled Sausage Casserole is a true lifesaver when you’re in a rush but still want a home-cooked meal that the whole family will enjoy. The prep is minimal, and the end result is a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. Make it your go-to recipe for those days when dinner is the last thing on your mind!
