Aunt Fern'S Sausage Casserole
A hearty sausage casserole packed with green peppers, mushrooms, water chestnuts, and rice, baked to perfection—ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings craving comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sausage until browned; drain any excess fat.
- Add chopped green bell peppers, chopped onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, diced pimento, sliced water chestnuts, sliced mushrooms, and uncooked rice to the sausage. Mix well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch dish.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, uncover, and stir the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with fresh mushrooms and pepper strips.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, consider using spicy sausage for a kick. You can substitute the pork sausage with turkey sausage for a lighter option. If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, use a homemade white sauce or another cream soup. Fresh vegetables like zucchini or carrots can also be added for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness. It pairs beautifully with New Potatoes With Cheese for a heartier meal. Garnish with fresh mushrooms and pepper strips for a colorful presentation, and consider offering hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium power until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Fern'S Sausage Casserole contains roughly 349 calories, with 9g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 477mg per serving (21% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. After mixing the ingredients, cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
Can I freeze this casserole?
Absolutely! This casserole freezes well. Assemble it as directed, but do not bake. Instead, cover tightly and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as instructed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a different flavor or cannot find cream of mushroom soup, you can use cream of chicken soup or a homemade white sauce. For a vegetarian option, consider using a plant-based cream soup or a mixture of vegetable broth with a thickening agent like cornstarch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).