Rice N Sausage Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory sausage, creamy soups, and tender rice, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile enough to suit any taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage in a skillet and drain any excess fat.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage, rice, cream of mushroom soup, and cream of chicken soup.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing some chopped onions or bell peppers with the sausage. If you're out of cream of mushroom or chicken soup, you can use a homemade version or substitute with any creamy soup you have on hand. To make it a bit healthier, replace white rice with brown rice or quinoa. This dish also works well with smoked sausage for a deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the casserole with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Mary Ellen's Chicken Casserole for a comforting dinner spread. You can also top it with shredded cheese during the last few minutes of baking for a cheesy finish, or sprinkle fresh herbs like parsley for added freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick reheating, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice N Sausage Casserole contains roughly 489 calories, with 15g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (30% of the Daily Value) and iron (21% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1489mg per serving (65% 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?
Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Each type will lend a unique flavor to the casserole, so choose one that matches your dietary preferences or taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to your Rice N Sausage Casserole, consider using spicy sausage or adding crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. You can also mix in diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick that complements the creamy soups.
Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients, cover the dish tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just pop it in the oven, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold from the fridge.
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).