Description
Stuffed Banana Peppers with Hot Sausage are a spicy, cheesy comfort dish perfect as a flavorful Italian appetizer or a satisfying main. These oven-baked peppers are filled with zesty hot sausage, nestled in tomato sauce, and topped with melty mozzarella for a crowd-pleasing experience.
Ingredients
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8 banana peppers (approx. 500 g)
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1 lb (450 g) spicy Italian sausage, ground
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½ cup (60 g) mozzarella cheese
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½ cup (120 ml) tomato sauce
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2 tbsp (30 ml) water
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Wearing gloves, cut off the tops of the banana peppers and remove seeds and ribs as preferred.
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Divide the sausage into 8 equal portions and stuff each pepper.
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In a baking dish, mix half the tomato sauce with water. Lay peppers on top.
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Pour remaining sauce over the peppers. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
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Remove foil, check tenderness, and sprinkle mozzarella over each pepper.
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Broil until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
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Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Remove seeds for milder spice or leave some in for heat.
Gloves help avoid skin irritation from peppers.
Parmesan or provolone can be added for extra cheesiness.
Prep ahead and refrigerate overnight if needed.
Great with garlic bread, salad, or mashed potatoes.
Store leftovers up to 3 days in the fridge; reheat in oven or microwave.
Freezer-friendly after baking and cooling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes (plus 5–7 minutes broiling)
- Category: Appetizer, Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian