Hawaiian Rice
Hawaiian Rice is a hearty, savory casserole combining sausage, rice, and creamy chicken flavors. Its comforting taste and rich textures make it perfect for family dinners or potlucks, offering a satisfying blend of hearty ingredients and bold flavors inspired by tropical comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Brown the sausage in a skillet and transfer it to a baking dish.
- Add the chopped celery, chopped onion, cooked rice, chicken broth, water, and cream of chicken soup to the baking dish.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bake uncovered for 1 hour or until the rice is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked sausage or adding a teaspoon of garlic powder to the mixture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Additionally, feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hawaiian Rice as a standalone dish or alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. This dish pairs beautifully with Chicken With Rice (Arroz Con Pollo) for a comforting feast. For a complete spread, consider including a fruit salad or grilled vegetables as sides.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hawaiian Rice contains roughly 444 calories, with 10g protein, 68g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1137mg per serving (49% 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 rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute long-grain rice with jasmine or basmati rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio according to the type of rice used. Shorter cooking times may be required for these varieties.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! To add a kick, you can include diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper in the mixture. Alternatively, serve with hot sauce on the side for those who prefer to spice it up individually.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just assemble the ingredients in the baking dish, cover tightly, and bake when ready. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
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).