Chicken Noodle Sausage Casserole
A hearty casserole combining sausage, rice, vegetables, and savory seasonings, topped with almonds. Perfect for comforting family dinners and those craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute sausage, chopped celery, chopped onion, and green pepper until cooked.
- Mix the sautéed ingredients with dry chicken noodle soup and half of the water.
- Add rice and mushrooms to the mixture and combine well.
- Transfer to a baking dish, top with slivered almonds.
- Bake for 45 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the bulk sausage with a spicy Italian sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter option. You can also use leftover cooked chicken instead of sausage. If you prefer a creamier texture, stir in a can of cream of mushroom soup before baking. Adding frozen peas or corn can enhance the dish's color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is perfect for a hearty family meal and pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a side of roasted potatoes for a complete dinner. For a comforting dessert, follow with a slice of Dream Whip Pie to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken Noodle Sausage Casserole contains roughly 990 calories, with 46g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 65g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (93% of the Daily Value), vitamin D (90% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1651mg per serving (72% 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 up to the baking step, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed, adding extra time if needed to ensure it's heated through.
What can I substitute for rice in this recipe?
You can replace the rice with quinoa or couscous for a different texture and flavor. If you're looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower rice works well too. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for quicker-cooking grains.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for a plant-based sausage or a mix of sautéed mushrooms and lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor, and ensure your chicken noodle soup mix is vegetable-based. This will keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
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).