The Best Air Fryer Veggie Sausage Casserole Recipe
This Air Fryer Veggie Sausage Casserole is a wholesome, hearty dish that combines rich flavors with the convenience of air frying. The vegetarian sausages paired with borlotti or cannellini beans create a satisfying base for a comforting meal.
Roasted red peppers add a sweet smokiness, while a splash of red wine vinegar and Worcestershire sauce (or its vegetarian alternative) bring balance and depth to the sauce. It’s a perfect recipe for those seeking a quick, flavorful, and plant-based dinner option.
With minimal prep and hands-off cooking, this casserole comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prepping. A dash of dried herbs and a grinding of black pepper finish it off, creating a dish that’s both savory and aromatic.
Air Fryer Veggie Sausage Casserole – Ingredients
The vegetarian sausages bring a satisfying, meaty texture, anchoring the casserole with hearty flavors.
Roasted red peppers, with their smoky sweetness, infuse the dish with depth, while the borlotti or cannellini beans offer a creamy base, adding richness and balance.
Chopped tomatoes provide a fresh, tangy contrast to the savory elements, and a hint of red wine vinegar brightens the sauce, harmonizing all the flavors together.
Air Fryer Veggie Sausage Casserole
This hearty, air-fried veggie sausage casserole is an easy and comforting meal packed with plant-based goodness. With roasted red peppers, borlotti or cannellini beans, and savory vegetarian sausages, it’s a wholesome dish that’s sure to satisfy. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this delicious recipe!
Recipe Tips
- Customize Your Sausages: The beauty of this casserole is its flexibility. While vegetarian sausages work wonderfully, feel free to experiment with different types like plant-based chorizo or lentil sausages to bring unique flavors to the dish. Just make sure the sausages are air-fried until crisp for that added texture.
- Thicken the Sauce to Your Liking: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply cook the casserole for a bit longer in the air fryer or use a spoon to gently mash some of the beans. The beans will break down and naturally thicken the sauce. This creates a richer, more comforting consistency.
- Fresh Herbs for Extra Flavor: While dried herbs work well, you can enhance the flavor of this dish by adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley before serving. Fresh herbs not only add color but also bring a burst of freshness that complements the hearty sausages and rich sauce.
What to Serve with Recipe
- Crispy Garlic Bread: This veggie sausage casserole pairs beautifully with warm, crispy garlic bread. The crunch and buttery flavor of the bread make it the perfect companion to soak up any extra sauce, making every bite even more satisfying.
- Steamed Vegetables: If you’re looking for a lighter side, serve your casserole with steamed broccoli, green beans, or carrots. The slight bitterness of the broccoli or the sweetness of carrots contrasts nicely with the savory casserole, balancing the meal with added nutrients.
- A Simple Salad: A crisp salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing touch to this dish. The brightness of the salad cuts through the richness of the casserole, providing a perfect contrast and making it a complete meal.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of beans? Yes! While borlotti or cannellini beans are ideal, you can swap them with other beans like kidney beans or chickpeas. Just ensure they’re well-drained and rinsed to avoid excess liquid in the casserole.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare this casserole up to a day ahead. Simply follow the recipe and store the casserole in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it in the air fryer or oven until heated through. It’s a great meal for meal prepping!
- What if I don’t have an air fryer? If you don’t have an air fryer, no worries! You can make this casserole in the oven. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and follow the same cooking times, adjusting as needed. The casserole will still come out wonderfully hearty and delicious.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, this casserole can be made gluten-free if you use gluten-free vegetarian sausages. Just ensure all ingredients, including the Worcestershire sauce, are gluten-free and you’re good to go!
Air Fryer Veggie Sausage Casserole
Ingredients
- 4-6 vegetarian sausages
- 1 red onion finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oil
- 400 g can chopped tomatoes
- 3 roasted red peppers from a jar sliced
- 400 g can borlotti or cannellini beans
- 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar
- A dash of Worcestershire sauce or vegetarian alternative
- 1 teaspoon mixed dried herbs
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the air fryer to 180°C. Place the vegetarian sausages in the air fryer basket and cook for 5 minutes. While the sausages are cooking, toss the chopped onion in oil and add it to the air fryer. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Next, combine all the ingredients in either a heatproof dish or, if you prefer, directly in the air fryer basket. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 20 minutes, ensuring the sausages are fully cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Serve with a fresh grinding of black pepper for added flavor.
