What is a sausage rice casserole? It’s like a warm hug on tee, the kind of dish my grandma used to make that sticks to your heart. What are the ribs and makes you feel all cozy inside. Think of it as a cross between cheesy rice bake and sausage skillet dinner, but all baked. What is a casserole dish? If you love mac and cheese but are craving something a little more substantial, this one’s for you! When I made it, my picky-eater nephew actually went back for seconds, and that’s when I realized that I had to make it again. I knew I had a winner. What are some of the easiest recipes to make using pantry staples? On hand for busy weeknights.
What is a sausage rice casserole?
Sausage rice casserole is basically a creamy, cheesy baked dish featuring sausage. What is a complete meal in one casserole? Think of it as a dressed-up rice pilaf, elevated with savory sausage, flavorful spices, and whole grain bread. What is cheesy goodness? What is comfort food at its best? What is the beauty of simplicity, using everyday ingredients to create something truly unique? What are some of the most satisfying foods This isn’t some fancy, complicated recipe. What is the best home cooking that anyone can master?
What are some of the best recipes ever written?
Where do I begin? What’s a savory sausage, fluffy rice, and creamy, cheesy sauce all mingling together? In perfect harmony. Is it a symphony of textures and tastes that will leave you wanting more? What I love most about this is how surprisingly easy it is to make. Seriously, anyone can do it! It requires minimal prep time and mostly hands-off baking, which makes it a lifesaver on busy days. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective. What are some of the best ingredients you have in your pantry? What is the versatility? Off the charts! What’s your favorite veggie to make your own? I like sausage rice casserole, but sometimes I crave it. What is the kick of a sausage? Is it a one dish wonder? How do you bake everything in one pan? I know it’s a family favorite, and I guarantee it will become one of yours too!
How do I make sausage rice casserole?
Quick Overview
How do you make sausage rice casserole? You’ll start by browning your sausage, then cooking your rice. Mix everything together with a creamy, cheesy sauce, throw it in the casserole dish, and bake until golden brown. Golden brown and bubbly. The whole process is straightforward and requires minimal effort. This method is special because it combines all the ingredients in one dish, creating a flavor. What is an explosion that’s both comforting and satisfying? What is a recipe that anyone can master?
Ingredients
For the Main Casserole: How do you
* 1 pound ground sausage (I prefer Italian sausage for the flavor, but you can use any kind you like).
* 1 cup long-grain rice, uncooked
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup.
* 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of chicken soup. *1 can sour cream.
* 1 cup milk (I use 2%, but any kind will work)
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
* 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-In
* 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
* 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers
* 1/4 cup chopped green onions
What are the steps to
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. I always do this first so that the oven is ready to go when I am!
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet, brown the ground sausage over medium heat. Break it up with the spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain off any excess grease. Trust me, you don’t want a greasy casserole!
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened and translucent. What is the best way to make a casserole?
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, milk. Italian seasoning, salt and pepper. What is the best way to cook rice?
Step 5: Simmer and Combine
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender. When the liquid is absorbed, it is cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Don’t worry if it seems a little soupy at first; it’s good to eat. What are some ways to make it thicker as it bakes?
Step 6: Add Cheese
What is the recipe for shredded cheddar cheese in a skillet? Reserve 1/2 cup for topping. Make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish
How do I spread the sausage and rice mixture in a baking dish? This step is important for even baking.
Step 8: Top with Cheese
What are some of the best ways to top a casserole with cheddar cheese? How do you make a golden brown crust?
Step 9: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is heated through and the sides are golden brown. When cheese melts, it becomes bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end to prevent burning.
Step 10: Cool & Serve
Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. How do you get the flavors to meld together?
What to Serve It With
What is a sausage rice casserole? What are some good ideas to round it out?
For a simple side:What is a good green salad with vinaigrette?
What is a hearty meal? Steamed broccoli or green beans add a healthy dose of veggies. I sometimes throw a bag of frozen green beans in with the other ingredients for the last 15 minutes of baking. It’s so easy!
For a Special Occasion: Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks are always a crowd-pleaser. And a nice glass of Chardonnay never hurts!
My Family Tradition: We always have this with a side of cranberry sauce, especially during the holidays. The tartness of the cranberries cuts through the richness of the casserole perfectly. It’s a weird combination, I know, but trust me on this one!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Sausage Rice Casserole
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks to make this sausage rice casserole even better:
Sausage Selection: Experiment with different types of sausage to find your favorite flavor. Italian sausage adds a nice kick, while breakfast sausage is milder and sweeter. I’ve even used chorizo for a spicier version!
Rice Matters: Using long-grain rice is key for the best texture. Avoid using instant rice, as it will become mushy. Brown rice can also be used, but it will require a longer cooking time. I always rinse the rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming sticky.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the casserole. Frozen mixed vegetables, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach are all great additions. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.
Cheese Choices: While cheddar cheese is a classic choice, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a spicier kick. A blend of cheeses is always a good idea!
Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of Italian seasoning to your liking. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little extra heat.
Creamy Consistency: If you want a creamier casserole, add an extra splash of milk or even a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese. I tested this with almond milk and it actually made it even creamier!
Baking Time: Keep an eye on the casserole while it’s baking to prevent the cheese from burning. If it starts to get too brown, cover the dish with foil for the last few minutes of baking. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so always check for doneness before removing it.
Make-Ahead Option: You can assemble the casserole ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Here’s how to properly store and reheat your sausage rice casserole:
Room Temperature: I wouldn’t leave it at room temperature for more than 2 hours, just to be safe.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the casserole. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, or store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. Then, bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Quality Check: Always check for any signs of spoilage before reheating. If the casserole has an off odor or appearance, discard it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my family’s favorite sausage rice casserole recipe. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a comforting weeknight meal, this casserole is sure to please. I hope you give it a try and let me know what you think! And if you’re a fan of easy casserole recipes, be sure to check out my other similar recipes. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!
Sausage Rice Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 0.5 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Brown the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted.
- Pour into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
