Southern Red Rice Casserole
A hearty Southern casserole featuring smoky sausage, rice, and tomatoes, baked to perfection. Perfect for family dinners or comforting gatherings with bold, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sliced Rogerwood smoked sausage in bacon drippings.
- Combine the browned sausage with remaining ingredients, including crumbled fried bacon.
- Mix well and place in a casserole dish.
- Cover and bake in a 350°F oven for one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using andouille sausage instead of Rogerwood smoked sausage. You can substitute brown rice for a nuttier taste but adjust the cooking time accordingly. If you want a little heat, add diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the mix. This dish can also be made vegetarian by omitting the sausage and using vegetable broth instead of tomato juice.
Serving Suggestions
This Southern Red Rice Casserole is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or cornbread. For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a side of collard greens. It also makes a great side dish for barbecued meats or alongside Moma Gumbo for a flavorful Southern feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through, or reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated evenly. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Red Rice Casserole contains roughly 594 calories, with 11g protein, 87g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value) and protein (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 835mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use any smoked sausage you prefer, such as andouille or chorizo, which will add different flavors to the dish. Just ensure that the sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the casserole.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just assemble it, 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.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce into the mixture before baking. Adjust the amount based on your heat preference to achieve the desired spice level.
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).