Okay, friend, let me tell you about my absolute go-to comfort food: sausage Rice Casserole. It’s like mac and cheese had a baby with a Spanish paella – warm, creamy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. I know casseroles can sometimes get a bad rap, but trust me, this one is different. We’re talking savory sausage, perfectly cooked rice, and a cheesy sauce that just hugs you from the inside out. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to throw together, making it a lifesaver on those busy weeknights when you just can’t face the thought of an elaborate dinner. It’s infinitely more satisfying than opening a can of soup, that’s for sure! My whole family begs for this sausage rice casserole!
What is a sausage rice casserole?
So, what exactly is sausage Rice Casserole? Think of it as a layered dish where cooked rice, browned sausage, vegetables, and a creamy, cheesy sauce all come together in beautiful harmony. It’s essentially a complete meal in one dish. The name pretty much says it all! It’s hearty, filling, and oh-so-delicious. It’s been a staple in my family for years, passed down from my grandma, who always knew how to make the most comforting meals with simple ingredients. I think its charm lies in its simplicity, and how easily adaptable it is. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or cheeses to create a dish that’s uniquely yours. You can use spicy sausage to give it a real kick, or keep it mild for the little ones. Whatever you do, it’s sure to be a hit.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Oh, where do I even begin? There are so many reasons to adore this recipe. First and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The savory sausage perfectly complements the creamy, cheesy sauce, and the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. Then there’s the simplicity. Seriously, this recipe is a breeze to make. Even on my busiest nights, I can whip this up without breaking a sweat. And let’s not forget the cost-efficiency. The ingredients are all relatively inexpensive, making this a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste. I love that! What I love most about this sausage rice Casserole Recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to your liking. Throw in some broccoli, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra veggies. Experiment with different cheeses to create a unique flavor profile. The possibilities are endless! Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding a family of four or hosting a potluck, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. It’s also a great way to use up leftover rice or cooked vegetables. It’s my personal recipe version that stands out, because it’s the one my kids request most. I’ve tried others, but nothing beats this. It’s just pure comfort food magic.
How do I make sausage rice casserole?
Quick Overview
Making this sausage rice casserole is easier than you might think. You’ll start by browning the sausage and cooking your rice. Then, you’ll whip up a creamy sauce, combine all the ingredients in a baking dish, and bake until bubbly and golden brown. That’s really it. The magic is how simple the steps are and how amazing the final result turns out! The best part is that this casserole is perfect for meal prepping. You can assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat, which is perfect for those days when you know you’ll be short on time.
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole:
* 1 pound ground sausage (I usually go for Italian sausage, but breakfast sausage works too)
* 2 cups cooked rice (long grain, brown, or your favorite – leftovers are perfect!
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 1 green bell pepper, chopped
* 2 cups milk (I’ve even used almond milk in a pinch, and it works great!
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup. * 1.
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of Chicken Soup.
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons butter, melted
How do I follow the
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter. How do you prevent a casserole from sticking to your hands? I always do this before I start anything else, so the oven is ready to go when I need it.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage & Veggies
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble and brown the sausage. Drain off any excess grease. Add onion and green bell pepper to a large skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. You want the onions to be translucent and the peppers slightly tender. This step is crucial for developing the savory flavor base of the casserole. Don’t skimp! Can you use pre-cooked sausage in this step as well, as long as you warm it through, and skip the skip step? What is browning it up?
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream of mushroom soup, and Cream Cheese. Set aside. What is black pepper powder? Make sure everything is well combined and smooth. What is the secret to a good casserole?
Step 4: Combine & Layer
Add the cooked sausage and vegetables to the bowl with the sauce. Stir in the cooked rice and 1 1/2 cups of cheddar cheese. Stir well. Mix everything together until well combined. What is the best way to spread the mixture in a baking dish? Sprinkle 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top. Drizzle the melted butter over the cheese. What is the best way to make a golden brown crust?
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the cheese is melted. How do I get a golden brown crust? Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to prevent the cheese from burning. If it starts to brown too quickly, you can loosely cover the dish with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Cool & Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will give it a chance to set up a bit and make it easier to slice. Serve warm and enjoy! I like to add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor and presentation, but it’s totally optional. This is also fantastic with a little bit of hot sauce or red pepper flakes sprinkled on top if you like to add some heat.
What should I serve it with?
This sausage rice casserole is delicious all on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of other dishes. I often serve it with a simple green salad to balance out the richness of the casserole. What are some good options for steamed broccoli? What is a good side dish to serve with garlic bread or crusty rolls? What is a great side dish for supper? Is it easy to transport and always a crowd pleaser? My family tradition is to always have this as one of the options for Christmas. Is it a crowd pleaser?
How do you make a Sausage Rice Casserole?
Okay, now for the insider secrets to making the *perfect* sausage rice casserole. First, don’t overcook the rice. You want it to be slightly undercooked, as it will continue to cook in the casserole. I always err on the side of caution and remove it from the heat just before it’s fully done. Secondly, don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses. Cheddar is a classic choice, but Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp provolone would also be delicious. I’ve even tried adding a little bit of Gruyere for a more sophisticated flavor. Another tip is to add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage while it’s browning for a little bit of heat. It adds a nice kick without being overpowering. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the sausage with vegetarian sausage crumbles or chopped mushrooms. Just make sure to cook them until softened before adding them to the casserole. And finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with the toppings. In addition to cheddar cheese, you can sprinkle on some breadcrumbs, chopped fresh herbs, or even a drizzle of hot sauce before baking. The key to a perfect casserole is to have fun and experiment with different flavors and textures until you find what you love. I once accidentally added two cans of cream of mushroom soup and it came out surprisingly great! So, don’t be afraid to experiment.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
If you have any leftover sausage rice casserole (which is a big “if” in my house!), you can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. To reheat, you can either microwave it for a few minutes until heated through, or bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes. If you’re reheating it in the oven, you may want to add a little bit of milk or broth to keep it from drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole for up to 2-3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. I’ve found that the texture can change a bit after freezing, but it still tastes delicious. I actually prepare and freeze individual portions for quick lunches. It works so well! The great thing about this recipe, is that you really can’t mess it up. It’s a very forgiving recipe that will almost always turn out well.
What are the most frequently asked questions on
Final Thoughts
What is the best sausage rice casserole recipe? What are some of the best recipes that everyone should have in their kitchen? Is it easy, delicious, versatile, and always a crowd-pleaser? What are some comforting recipes for a weeknight potluck? What are some good recipes for casserole? What are some of my favorite casserole recipes? What are some of the I have a chicken and rice casserole that’s very similar, but oh-so-different! What’s your take on cooking and how it turns out! What are some new ideas for a website?
Sausage Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage Mild or spicy, your preference
- 1.5 cups uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup
- 0.5 cup chopped onion
- 0.25 cup chopped green bell pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Brown sausage in a large skillet; drain off excess grease.
- Add onion and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, rice, chicken broth, and cream of mushroom soup. Stir well.
- Pour mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until rice is tender and cheese is melted and bubbly.
