Microwave Red Rice
A hearty microwave-cooked rice dish with smoky sausage, vegetables, and rich tomato flavor, perfect for quick meals and satisfying comfort food.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute onions, shallots, parsley, bell pepper, and sausage over stove a few minutes.
- Add tomato sauce, cream of mushroom soup, water (from soup and sauce), beef cube, and sugar.
- Bring everything to a boil.
- Add rice to the mixture.
- Remove from stove and cover with a lid.
- Microwave for 35 minutes at 50% power.
- Stir twice during cooking.
- Let stand for 15 minutes before serving, covered.
- Do not over microwave.
- Note that the dish may not look done initially.
- The longer it stands, the better it tastes, as it finishes cooking while standing.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning in the sauté step. You can substitute the smoked sausage with turkey sausage or even a plant-based variety for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier dish, add diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes. Make sure to check the rice for doneness as cooking times may vary based on your microwave's wattage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with a side of cornbread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with American recipes like Corn Beef Hash And Potatoes or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish. Garnish with additional parsley for a fresh touch. This dish also makes for a great potluck option, as it can be easily transported and served.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, microwave in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water to keep the rice moist during reheating. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Microwave Red Rice contains roughly 2132 calories, with 79g protein, 171g carbohydrates, and 138g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (259% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (187% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 880mg per serving (38% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, so you may want to increase the microwave time to around 45-50 minutes. Additionally, ensure you have enough liquid, as brown rice absorbs more moisture.
What can I use instead of cream of mushroom soup?
If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute it with cream of celery or even a homemade white sauce. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cream soup or blend silken tofu with some vegetable broth and seasonings to achieve a similar consistency.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, replace the smoked sausage with a meat alternative like tempeh or a veggie sausage. You can also add more vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the flavor. Ensure that your soup and broth are also vegetarian-friendly.
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).