Baked Red Rice
A hearty baked red rice dish with smoky sausage, sweet bell peppers, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Optionally saute onion and bell pepper in bacon grease until tender.
- Combine tomato paste, water, bacon grease, onion, and bell pepper in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Remove from heat; stir in uncooked rice and sausage.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish, cover, and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
- Remove from oven, stir the rice mixture, cover again, and bake for another 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked sausage instead of regular sausage. You can also substitute the Uncle Ben rice with any long-grain rice if needed. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of water. Adding spices like paprika or cayenne can enhance the dish's warmth.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Red Rice pairs beautifully with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate. For a heartier option, you can serve it with a slice of cornbread or a side of Erwtensoep (Dutch Pea Soup) to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out, and heat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just make sure to cover it well.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Red Rice contains roughly 25 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 506mg per serving (22% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven. This helps ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of bacon grease?
If you don't have bacon grease, you can use olive oil or butter as a substitute. While the flavor will differ slightly, these alternatives will still provide a nice base for sautéing the vegetables.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, to make this recipe gluten-free, ensure that the sausage you use is labeled gluten-free and substitute the rice with a gluten-free rice option. Most long-grain rice varieties are naturally gluten-free, making this an easy modification.
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).