Savory Sausage Casserole
Savory Sausage Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of pork sausage with the texture of rice and the savory essence of chicken noodle soup. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this dish is sure to please a crowd with its satisfying taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break apart the sausage and brown it in an ungreased skillet, pouring off any excess fat as it accumulates.
- Remove from the burner.
- Mix together the sausage, rice, soup, onion, and celery; place in a 2-quart casserole.
- Refrigerate.
- When ready to bake, mix soy sauce with water and add this to the casserole.
- Mix all gently.
- Cover and bake at 350° for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavor boost, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the sausage while browning. You can substitute the pork sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian dish, use a plant-based sausage and vegetable broth in place of water. Also, feel free to mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
This savory sausage casserole makes a hearty main dish and pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside Barbecued Lima Beans for a comforting and satisfying dinner. A slice of crusty bread can also complement this dish nicely, perfect for soaking up the delicious flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions until heated through or place the casserole back in the oven at 350°F until warmed. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 2 months; just be sure to thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Savory Sausage Casserole contains roughly 625 calories, with 22g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value) and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2755mg per serving (120% 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 prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole in advance by assembling all the ingredients and storing it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to mix in the soy sauce and water right before baking. This allows the flavors to meld while keeping the rice from becoming too soft.
What can I substitute for dehydrated chicken noodle soup?
If you don’t have dehydrated chicken noodle soup, you can use a store-bought cream soup or a homemade broth with noodles. Just be aware that the texture may vary slightly, so adjust the liquid accordingly to ensure the rice cooks properly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider mixing in a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when you combine the ingredients. You could also use spicy sausage instead of regular pork sausage to give this casserole an extra kick.
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).