Sausage and Rice Casserole is a comforting dish that brings together smoky chicken sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and hearty brown rice in a rich, zesty tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this one-pot wonder delivers incredible flavor with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re hosting friends or just feeding the family, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Casserole
- How to Make Sausage And Rice Casserole
- Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Step 3: Combine Rice and Liquids
- Step 4: Finish Cooking
- How to Serve Sausage And Rice Casserole
- With Fresh Herbs
- Accompanied by Salad
- As Leftovers
- Served with Bread
- How to Perfect Sausage And Rice Casserole
- Best Side Dishes for Sausage And Rice Casserole
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Sausage And Rice Casserole
- Reheating Sausage And Rice Casserole
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Sausage And Rice Casserole?
- Can I customize my Sausage And Rice Casserole?
- How do I know when my casserole is done?
- Can I use regular rice instead of instant?
- Is this recipe healthy?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish cooks in just one pot, saving you time on both cooking and cleanup.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of smoky sausage and fresh vegetables creates a symphony of flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal any day of the week.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber from the sausage and brown rice, this casserole is a healthy choice for dinner.
- Family-Friendly: A delicious way to get everyone to eat their veggies without complaints!
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into making your Sausage and Rice Casserole, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Nonstick skillet with a tight-fitting lid
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Nonstick skillet: Prevents food from sticking, making it easier to cook and clean up afterward.
- Sharp knife: Ensures quick and safe chopping of vegetables for even cooking.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 12 ounces cooked Italian chicken sausage links (not breakfast sausage), cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1 red bell pepper, cored and 1/2-inch diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 orange or yellow bell pepper, cored and 1/2-inch diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 small or 1/2 large yellow onion, 1/4-inch diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 cup instant brown rice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 15-ounce can fire-roasted tomatoes in their juices
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional for serving)
How to Make Sausage And Rice Casserole
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sausage slices to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 to 8 minutes total.
- Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Blot with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Wipe the skillet with a paper towel until mostly clean.
- Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the bell peppers, onion, basil, salt, and pepper. Cook until the onion softens and starts to brown, about 3 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Liquids
- Stir in the instant brown rice, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook until fragrant for about 30 seconds.
- Pour in the chicken broth and fire-roasted tomatoes along with their juices. Stir well to combine.
- Bring everything to a boil. Stir again before covering the skillet. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 4: Finish Cooking
- Add the reserved sausage slices back into the skillet. Stir until evenly distributed throughout.
- Re-cover the skillet and remove it from heat. Allow it to stand for an additional 5 minutes until most liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving warm.
Enjoy your delicious Sausage And Rice Casserole!
How to Serve Sausage And Rice Casserole
Sausage and Rice Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions that complement this hearty meal perfectly.
With Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Basil leaves: Top with fresh basil for an aromatic touch that enhances the Italian flavors.
Accompanied by Salad
- Garden salad: A simple green salad with dressing balances the richness of the casserole.
- Caesar salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons make a delightful contrast.
As Leftovers
- Reheated with cheese: Add grated cheese on top and broil until bubbly for a delicious twist.
- In a wrap: Use leftovers to create a tasty wrap with tortillas and fresh veggies.
Served with Bread
- Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky flavors pair wonderfully with the casserole.
- Crusty baguette: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
How to Perfect Sausage And Rice Casserole
To achieve the best results with your Sausage and Rice Casserole, consider these helpful tips to enhance flavor and texture.
- Use high-quality sausage: Choosing good-quality Italian sausage elevates the overall taste of your casserole.
- Prep ingredients ahead: Chopping vegetables beforehand saves time and makes the cooking process smoother.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t hesitate to tweak salt, pepper, or spices according to your preferences for a personalized flavor.
- Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for several minutes after cooking helps all flavors meld together beautifully.
- Experiment with vegetables: Adding different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms can give more nutrition and variety.
- Store properly for leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy reheating.
Best Side Dishes for Sausage And Rice Casserole
Sausage and Rice Casserole makes a filling meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:
- Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and pairs well without overpowering flavors.
- Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their crispy texture offers a delightful contrast to the creamy casserole.
- Corn on the cob: Sweet corn provides a pop of sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer crunch and freshness, cutting through the richness of the dish.
- Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes bring comfort and richness, making for a hearty combination.
- Grilled asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus gives a smoky flavor complementing the sausage beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your sausage and rice casserole, it’s easy to make simple mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Using the wrong type of sausage: Always choose Italian chicken sausage for the best flavor. Avoid breakfast sausage as it alters the taste.
- Not cooking the sausage properly: Ensure the sausage is browned correctly before removing it. This adds depth to the dish.
- Ignoring the cooking times for rice: Instant brown rice cooks differently than regular rice. Stick to instant brown rice for this recipe to ensure perfect results.
- Overcooking or undercooking veggies: Pay attention to the texture of your vegetables. They should be softened but not mushy when added to the casserole.
- Skipping spices: Don’t overlook herbs like basil and red pepper flakes. They enhance the flavor significantly, so use them generously.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Sausage And Rice Casserole
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Sausage And Rice Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making sausage and rice casserole.
What is Sausage And Rice Casserole?
Sausage and rice casserole is a hearty one-pot meal featuring Italian chicken sausage, bell peppers, brown rice, and zesty tomatoes. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for family dinners.
Can I customize my Sausage And Rice Casserole?
Absolutely! You can add different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms or swap in your favorite type of sausage for varied flavors.
How do I know when my casserole is done?
The casserole is finished when most of the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Let it rest covered off heat for a few minutes before serving.
Can I use regular rice instead of instant?
While it’s possible, regular rice requires longer cooking times. If using regular rice, cook it separately according to package instructions and combine with other ingredients at the end.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes! This casserole provides lean protein from chicken sausage and fiber from brown rice and vegetables, making it a nutritious option for dinner.
Final Thoughts
Sausage and rice casserole is an appealing dish that combines convenience with delightful flavors. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients based on what you have on hand. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
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Sausage And Rice Casserole
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Sausage and Rice Casserole is the ultimate one-pot meal that combines smoky Italian chicken sausage, fresh bell peppers, and hearty brown rice in a zesty fire-roasted tomato sauce. This comforting dish is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, providing a delicious way to enjoy a well-rounded dinner with minimal cleanup. With its rich flavors and vibrant colors, this casserole is sure to impress your family and friends alike, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces cooked Italian chicken sausage
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 yellow bell pepper
- 1 yellow onion
- 1 cup instant brown rice
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) fire-roasted tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional for serving)
Instructions
- In a nonstick skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage slices for about 5-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté diced bell peppers and onion in the same skillet until softened (about 3 minutes). Add garlic, rice, spices, and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Stir in chicken broth and fire-roasted tomatoes; bring to a boil. Cover and simmer on low for 5 minutes.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, stir well, cover again, and let rest off heat for another 5 minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
