Edna Smythe'S Cajun Rice
A hearty Cajun rice casserole featuring spicy sausage, vegetables, and creamy soups, perfect for comforting family dinners with bold flavor and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Crumble and cook the regular and hot pan sausage; drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery to the sausage and let simmer until vegetables are tender.
- Add uncooked rice to the mixture and mix well.
- Stir in both cans of cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soups until all ingredients are combined.
- Add salt to taste.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using smoked sausage instead of regular and hot pan sausage. You can also substitute jasmine or basmati rice for a different texture. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, try using a plant-based sausage and vegetable broth in place of the soups for a lighter twist. Adjust the spiciness by using more or less hot sausage based on your taste preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Edna Smythe's Cajun Rice with a side of cornbread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. It pairs beautifully with Cajun Shrimp Gumbo for a festive meal. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. For an extra kick, consider serving with hot sauce on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out, then cover and heat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. This dish also freezes well; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Edna Smythe'S Cajun Rice contains roughly 394 calories, with 9g protein, 56g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (113% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1227mg per serving (53% 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 brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice; however, it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the liquid and baking time accordingly, as brown rice typically takes about 45 minutes to cook thoroughly.
What can I substitute for the cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer not to use cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with a homemade creamy mushroom sauce or a can of vegetable soup. Alternatively, a white sauce thickened with mushrooms can also work well.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture a day in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and bake it just before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or family gatherings.
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).