Bake-A-Rice
Bake-A-Rice is a hearty and flavorful casserole combining sausage, rice, and vegetables with a savory broth. Perfect for family dinners, it features tender sausage, crunchy water chestnuts, and vibrant peppers, baked to perfection. A comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and full of bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the sausage, then drain the excess fat.
- Bring 4 1/2 cups of boiling water to a boil, add the dry chicken noodle soup mix and raw rice, and cook for 7 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and green pepper to the cooked sausage.
- Combine the cooked sausage and vegetables with the rice mixture and place in a baking dish.
- Top with water chestnuts, then cover and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using Italian sausage or adding garlic while cooking the sausage. If you don't have chicken noodle soup mix, a combination of chicken broth and seasonings can work as a substitute. You can also use brown rice instead of raw rice, but adjust cooking time according to package instructions. For a vegetarian option, replace sausage with plant-based sausage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Bake-A-Rice with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Easy Skillet Chicken or can be enjoyed on its own as a hearty dish. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for added color and flavor. This dish is also great for potlucks or family gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Bake-A-Rice contains roughly 653 calories, with 61g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (358% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (218% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1051mg per serving (46% 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 use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute with turkey sausage or a vegetarian option if you prefer. Just ensure that the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the dish. Adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the flavors of your chosen sausage.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage. You could also use spicy sausage varieties or serve with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish up to a day in advance, just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven, and you may need to increase the baking time slightly.
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).