Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large skillet, cook the ground Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
Add the sliced bell peppers and mushrooms to the skillet and sauté until they are tender, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes, if using. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
Divide the sausage and vegetable mixture evenly among four oven-safe bowls.
Top each bowl with an equal amount of shredded mozzarella cheese and sliced black olives.
Place the bowls on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil leaves. Serve warm.

Variations & Tips

For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative or simply add more of your favorite vegetables, like zucchini or spinach. If you prefer a bit more spice, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mix. For a different flavor profile, try using different cheeses such as cheddar or provolone. You can also experiment with different herbs, like oregano or thyme, to suit your taste.