Delicious Sausage & Rice Casserole: Savory, cheesy, and comforting. Recipe inside.

Sausage and Rice CasserolePhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Sausage and Rice Casserole is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This one-pot wonder combines savory sausage, tender rice, and colorful vegetables, all baked together in a creamy, cheesy sauce.

Get the Recipe Details: Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe

Ingredients

• Pork sausage: 1 pound
• Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
• Celery: 2 stalks, diced
• Red bell pepper: 1, diced
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Long-grain white rice: 1 cup, uncooked
• Cream of celery soup: 1 can (10.5 ounces)
• Low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups
• Dried thyme: 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional)
• Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh parsley: 1/4 cup, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces. Transfer the cooked sausage to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the onion, celery, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the cream of celery soup and chicken broth until smooth. Stir in the uncooked rice, thyme, red pepper flakes (if using), cooked sausage, and sautéed vegetables. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Assemble the casserole: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil.
6. Bake: Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven and bake for 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
7. Add the cheese: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

Conclusion

Sausage and Rice Casserole is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings comfort and warmth to any meal. The combination of savory sausage, tender rice, and melted cheese creates a rich and flavorful experience that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This easy-to-make casserole is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.