Sausage And Rice Breakfast Casserole
A hearty breakfast casserole combining seasoned sausage, fluffy rice, melted Velveeta, and savory mushrooms, baked to perfection. This dish offers a comforting, cheesy flavor with a hint of mustard and pepper, making it ideal for weekend brunches or family gatherings that crave warm, satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage in a skillet until crumbled and cooked through. Drain off the grease and set aside.
- Saute the chopped onion in butter until tender.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, beaten eggs, milk, 1 cup of shredded Velveeta, dry mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked sausage, sauteed onion, and green pepper to the mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a greased 9 x 13-inch casserole dish.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 30 to 40 minutes.
- Top with the remaining 1 cup of shredded Velveeta and return to the oven until melted.
- Allow the dish to set for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding diced bell peppers to the mix. You can substitute the Velveeta with any creamy cheese, or use a dairy-free option for a lighter version. If you want a crunch, top the casserole with breadcrumbs before baking. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time like a Breakfast Sausage Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs well with a fresh fruit salad or a side of avocado for a balanced breakfast. Consider serving it with hot sauce for an extra kick. For a complete brunch, complement it with the No Bake Peanut Butter Pie for dessert or a refreshing drink like iced coffee to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until warmed through. If reheating the entire casserole, cover it with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage And Rice Breakfast Casserole contains roughly 731 calories, with 20g protein, 136g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (124% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (68% of the Daily Value), and iron (54% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1134mg 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 brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be used as a healthier alternative to white rice. Just ensure it's fully cooked before adding it to the mixture, as it may require a longer cooking time.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free version. Also, ensure that the cream of mushroom soup is vegetarian if you prefer.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use gluten-free cream of mushroom soup and ensure that your sausage is gluten-free. Additionally, check that the cheese you use does not contain gluten.
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).