Country Sausage Casserole
A hearty country sausage casserole packed with flavorful sausage, green peppers, celery, and mushrooms, combined with rice and seasoned broth for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage, green pepper, celery, and onion in a skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Mix the Lipton chicken noodle soup mix and uncooked Minute rice in 4 1/2 cups boiling water.
- Combine the browned sausage mixture with the soup and rice mixture.
- Transfer to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Country Sausage Casserole, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme and parsley. For a lighter version, substitute turkey sausage for country sausage. You can also use frozen mixed vegetables instead of fresh ones for convenience. If you're looking for a quicker option, pre-cooked rice can save time, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Country Sausage Casserole with a side of steamed green beans or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top can add richness. This dish pairs beautifully with a warm bread roll, making it a cozy dinner option, perfect for chilly evenings.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes until heated through. Ensure it's hot all the way to the center before serving.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Country Sausage Casserole contains roughly 1105 calories, with 36g protein, 226g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (72% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2752mg per serving (120% 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 use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian or breakfast sausage. Just be mindful of the spice level, as different sausages can vary in heat. If using a milder sausage, you might want to add spices or hot sauce to maintain flavor.
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole ahead of time, assemble it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it's going in cold. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or potlucks.
Is this casserole suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to cook, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. It will keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer.
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).