Sausage And Wild Rice Casserole
A hearty casserole combining savory sausage, wild rice, and mushrooms, enhanced with fragrant herbs and a creamy sauce. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish offers robust flavors and a comforting texture, topped with toasted almonds for a delightful crunch and visual appeal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sauté sausage and break into small pieces.
- Sauté mushrooms and chopped onion in the sausage fat.
- Combine the cooked sausage, mushrooms, and onions.
- Mix flour and cream together until smooth and free of lumps.
- Add the flour and cream mixture to the sausage mixture, then pour in the undiluted chicken broth and cook until thickened.
- Add the cooked wild rice, season with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and marjoram, and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a buttered casserole dish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 to 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle toasted almonds on top before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding more cream or a splash of chicken stock if the casserole seems too thick. You can substitute the wild rice with brown rice or quinoa for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a bit of heat, add diced jalapeños along with the onions, or serve with a side of Appetizer Chicken Wings for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A side of garlic bread can also complement the dish well. For a heartier option, serve alongside Chicken And Dumpling Soup or a comforting side of Cheese, Rice, Broccoli Casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, covering with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage And Wild Rice Casserole contains roughly 513 calories, with 16g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (124% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (105% of the Daily Value), and calcium (64% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 29g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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! You can use Italian sausage for a spicy kick, or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just ensure that the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to maintain the flavor.
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole a day ahead. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
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).