Stuffed Banana Peppers with Italian Sausage

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Stuffed Banana Peppers with Italian Sausage.

1. Step 1

   Begin by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C).

2. Step 2

   Next, prepare the banana peppers by slicing off their tops and carefully removing the seeds and ribs.

3. Step 3

   Give them a quick rinse, then chop the edible parts of the tops and set them aside for later use.

4. Step 4

   In a large pot, bring salted water to a rolling boil and gently add the banana peppers.

5. Step 5

   Allow them to simmer for about 5 minutes, just until they soften slightly while retaining their firmness.

6. Step 6

   Drain the peppers and set them aside to cool.

7. Step 7

   In a medium skillet, melt butter over medium heat, then toss in the reserved chopped pepper tops, onion, and celery.

8. Step 8

   Sauté these aromatic vegetables for 3 to 5 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.

9. Step 9

   Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and minced garlic, seasoning the mixture with 1 ½ teaspoons of salt, basil, oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.

10. Step 10

    Let this delightful concoction simmer uncovered for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

11. Step 11

    In a large bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, egg, Worcestershire sauce, the remaining teaspoon of salt, and the remaining ¼ teaspoon of black pepper.

12. Step 12

    Fold in both hot and mild Italian sausages, bread crumbs, and 1 cup of the simmered tomato sauce mixture until everything is harmoniously blended.

13. Step 13

    Using a piping bag or sausage stuffer, lovingly fill each banana pepper with the savory sausage mixture.

14. Step 14

    Arrange the stuffed peppers in a 3-quart casserole dish and generously pour the remaining tomato sauce mixture over the top.

15. Step 15

    Bake uncovered in your preheated oven for about 1 hour, or until the sauce is bubbling and the sausage is thoroughly cooked.

16. Step 16

    To ensure perfection, check that an instant-read thermometer inserted into the filling reads at least 160°F (72°C).

17. Step 17

    Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this dish that brings a taste of home to your table.