Rice Sausage Chicken Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory sausage, rice, vegetables, and flavorful chicken noodle soup, perfect for comforting family dinners and versatile enough to suit various tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground sausage with finely chopped green pepper, diced onion, and cut-up celery until the mixture is clear, not browned.
- Add uncooked rice to the sausage and vegetable mixture.
- Simmer the mixture very slowly for one hour, stirring often.
- Prepare the soup by cooking the Lipton chicken noodle soup in water for 10 minutes.
- Gradually add the cooked soup to the meat and rice mixture, stirring continuously.
- Add water chestnuts to the mixture.
- Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
- If the casserole appears dry, add some clear chicken broth from a can or from baked chicken.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sausage mixture. If you prefer a healthier version, substitute the ground sausage with turkey sausage or use brown rice instead of white. For a bit of crunch, mix in some chopped water chestnuts along with the rice. This dish is versatile; you can also incorporate vegetables like carrots or peas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Rice Sausage Chicken Casserole warm, perhaps with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh garden salad for added crunch. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top just before serving can add richness. This dish is hearty enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with a light dessert like Strawberry Frozen Yogurt Pie.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, place the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help restore moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rice Sausage Chicken Casserole contains roughly 318 calories, with 21g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (180% of the Daily Value), and iron (97% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 486mg per serving (21% 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 in this casserole?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as turkey sausage or even a vegetarian sausage. Just keep in mind that different sausages may alter the flavor profile of the dish, so choose one that complements your taste.
How can I make this casserole ahead of time?
To prepare this casserole in advance, you can assemble it up to the baking step and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and cook as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole is filling on its own, but you can enhance your meal with sides like steamed vegetables, a crisp salad, or garlic bread. For a complete dinner, consider pairing with a light appetizer or a refreshing dessert like Tasty Lamb Shanks.
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).