Salmon Rice Casserole
A creamy salmon rice casserole layered with savory cheese sauce, olives, and tender rice, perfect for a comforting family dinner with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine milk, pimento cheese, salt, and pepper in a double boiler and heat until well blended and smooth to make the cheese sauce.
- Put a layer of cooked rice in a well-greased baking dish.
- Arrange layers of flaked salmon, sliced olives, and cheese sauce on top of the rice.
- Repeat the layering process, ending with a layer of cheese sauce on top.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using cream instead of milk. You can substitute pimento cheese with a sharp cheddar or a blend of cream cheese and diced pimentos for a similar flavor. Adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or onion powder can enhance the dish's flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of spice, try adding a dash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. It pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables, making it a balanced meal. For an extra touch, consider serving it alongside some crusty bread or the light and refreshing Light Crab Spread as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Salmon Rice Casserole contains roughly 889 calories, with 33g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), iron (31% of the Daily Value), and calcium (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 fresh salmon instead of flaked salmon?
Yes, fresh salmon can be used in this recipe. Just cook and flake the salmon before adding it to the casserole. This will provide a fresher taste and may enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it doesn't contain any gluten-based ingredients. Just ensure that the pimento cheese you use is gluten-free, and you'll have a delicious gluten-free casserole.
What can I serve with this casserole?
This casserole pairs nicely with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it with some garlic bread or a light appetizer like Festive Fish Fillets to complement the flavors.
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).