Hawaiian Rice Casserole
A hearty Hawaiian-inspired rice casserole combining savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and flavorful broth, perfect for family dinners and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage lightly and break it apart.
- Pour off grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan.
- Saute chopped green pepper, onion, and celery in the remaining 2 tablespoons of grease.
- Add the cooked rice, dry chicken noodle soup, boiling water, and drained mushrooms to the vegetables and sausage.
- Mix well and transfer to a casserole or 9 x 13-inch pan.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding crushed red pepper flakes to the dish. If you don't have dry chicken noodle soup, you can substitute with chicken broth and a bit of seasoning. Fresh vegetables like zucchini can also be included for extra nutrition, similar to how they feature in Zucchini Ham Casserole. Make sure to stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Serving Suggestions
This Hawaiian Rice Casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. You might also serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic bread. For a fun twist, try serving it with a side of Zesty Cracker Snacks for some added crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Rice Casserole contains roughly 1013 calories, with 35g protein, 123g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (71% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1399mg per serving (61% 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 it a day in advance. Simply assemble the casserole, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to bake, remove the wrap and follow the usual baking instructions, adding a few extra minutes to ensure it's heated through.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be a healthier alternative and adds a nutty flavor to the casserole. Just ensure that the brown rice is fully cooked before mixing it with the other ingredients, as it requires a longer cooking time than white rice.
What can I use instead of pork sausage?
If you prefer a different protein, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for the pork sausage. For a vegetarian option, try using plant-based sausage or a combination of beans and lentils, which would still provide a hearty texture and flavor.
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).