Sausage Pilaf
A hearty sausage pilaf with tender rice and vegetables, topped with crispy bread crumbs, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the sausage in a skillet and drain excess fat.
- Add chopped celery, onion, and green pepper; cook until tender, not browned.
- Stir in chopped pimiento, cream of mushroom soup, milk, uncooked rice, salt, and poultry seasoning.
- Pour the mixture into an ungreased casserole dish.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 50 minutes, stirring occasionally with a fork.
- Combine bread crumbs and melted butter; sprinkle evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes until topping is golden.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using turkey sausage instead of pork. You can also swap out the cream of mushroom soup for a homemade version or a different cream soup, like chicken. If you prefer more vegetables, add some peas or carrots. Remember to rinse the rice if it’s not pre-washed to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffier grains.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Sausage Pilaf hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a side of Gourmet String Beans for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside a simple green salad or crusty bread. This dish is great for family dinners or potlucks, ensuring everyone leaves satisfied.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sausage Pilaf contains roughly 493 calories, with 14g protein, 83g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (144% of the Daily Value), calcium (60% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1748mg per serving (76% 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, you can substitute brown rice for white rice; however, you will need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid. Brown rice generally requires more time to cook, so add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time and check for doneness.
Is there a vegetarian alternative for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of milk for added flavor and stick with the same vegetable mix for a hearty vegetarian option.
Can I freeze the Sausage Pilaf?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as instructed.
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).