Wild Rice Sausage Bake
A hearty baked dish combining tender wild rice, savory sausage, mushrooms, and creamy onion sauce, perfect for comforting family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the wild rice according to the package directions, then drain.
- Cook the pork sausage until done, breaking it apart with a fork as it cooks, then drain well on paper towels.
- Simmer chopped onion in 2 tablespoons of butter until soft.
- Stir in flour until bubbly, then gradually stir in milk, salt, and pepper until thickened.
- Sauté fresh mushrooms in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Lightly toss the cooked rice, sausage, mushroom sauté, and the milk mixture together.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using a mix of wild and brown rice for a heartier texture. If you prefer a lighter option, swap the pork sausage for turkey sausage. You can also add your favorite herbs like thyme or sage to enhance the dish. Remember to keep an eye on the baking time; if the top gets too brown, cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
This Wild Rice Sausage Bake is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It’s also great as a hearty side dish for gatherings, complementing other American recipes like Grandma E'S Famous Sloppy Joes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wild Rice Sausage Bake contains roughly 30 calories, with 1g protein, 3g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 504mg per serving (22% 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 wild rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice for wild rice; however, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook. You may also want to increase the liquid slightly to accommodate the longer cooking process.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the pork sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely. Enhance the dish with additional vegetables or beans for protein. Using vegetable broth instead of milk will also keep it vegetarian while adding flavor.
How can I make this dish ahead of time?
To prepare this dish in advance, assemble it in the casserole dish without baking. Cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. 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).