Sausage Cheddar Rice Casserole
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever feel like you're stuck in a dinner rut? Honestly, who hasn't? This sausage rice casserole is about to become your new best mate.
It is easy and a great way to use up that leftover rice! Think cheesy, savoury deliciousness in every bite.
Brief Overview
The cheesy sausage rice casserole is proper comfort food. Its got American roots, but tastes like a cheeky British twist with cheese.
It is an easy sausage rice casserole recipe , perfect for beginners. It takes about 55 minutes, and serves 6 hungry folks.
Main Benefits
One pan sausage rice casserole is packed with protein to keep you going! It's ideal for a cold evening or a casual get-together.
This recipe is special because it's so versatile, you can even add different vegetables.
Ready to Roll? Let's Talk Ingredients
Time to dive into what you'll need. For this delicious baked sausage rice casserole , you will need the following: 1 pound (450g) of your favourite Italian sausage for that lovely savoury depth, 3 cups of already cooked rice for carby goodness (plus it means less work), and 2 cups (8 ounces) of good old shredded cheddar cheese for that comforting gooeyness we all know and love.
Don't get me started on the aromatics like onions, garlic, and bell peppers. It brings the whole dish together. We will throw in some herbs and spices, too! You can use salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
For extra depth of flavour, try adding smoked paprika or even some red pepper flakes to your sausage. It will add a perfect touch of spice.
You can use it for your own amazing Smoked Sausage Recipes as well!
Getting Started With Sausage
First, preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C). Yes, that's right. Preheat the oven. While it's heating up, grab your largest skillet.
Then, prepare to brown that sausage like a pro! If you're using Italian Sausage Recipes be sure to remove the casings first.
It makes browning much easier, trust me.
Browning the sausage is key to developing all the flavors. Get that sausage nicely browned before doing anything else. I cannot stress this enough.
Creamy Dreamy Goodness
After the sausage is cooked, you will add the onions and peppers to that glorious sausage-y pan. Sauté for about 5 minutes.
You know?, until they're soft and starting to smell amazing. This is where the magic happens. It gives this creamy sausage rice casserole that little something special.
And for those keen on experimenting, this dish opens doors to countless sausage recipes for dinner , tailored to your taste.
What makes this creamy and cheesy wonder the most amazing sausage dinner ever, it is ease of cooking!
Ingredients & Equipment: The Sausage Rice Casserole Lowdown
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need for this sausage rice casserole . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward. We are making the easy sausage rice casserole recipe .
Main Ingredients for Your Sausage Masterpiece
Okay, here’s the list. These measurements are what I use, but feel free to tweak them. It's your kitchen, after all!
- 1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml) - This gives the sausage a nice sizzle.
- 1 pound (450g) Italian sausage, removed from casings. Go for sweet or hot - your call. For some sausage recipes for dinner this is key.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup/150g). Don't skimp on this, it adds sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon/5g). Garlic makes everything better.
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup/150g). Adds a little sweetness and colour.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (5ml). A must have in most Italian sausage recipes .
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (2.5ml). This adds a nice smoky depth to your smoked sausage recipes .
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) (1.25ml). If you're feeling brave!
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (30g). Thickens the sauce nicely.
- 3 cups chicken broth ( 720ml ). Low sodium is always a good idea.
- 1 cup heavy cream ( 240ml ). This is what makes the creamy sausage rice casserole .
- 3 cups cooked long grain rice (about 1 cup uncooked) ( 600g ). Cook it beforehand, alright?
- 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese ( 225g ). The sharper, the better, honestly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste. Seasoning is everything.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish. Makes it look fancy.
Sausage Quality: For the sausage, go for something that smells fresh and has a good colour. Avoid anything that looks pale or feels slimy.
Trust your gut on this one! A good sausage makes the casserole a really great sausage dinner
Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up
Italian seasoning and smoked paprika are a killer combo. You know? If you're out of Italian seasoning, use a mix of oregano, basil, and thyme.
You can add other vegetables if you want a sausage rice casserole with vegetables .
Essential Equipment: Keep it Simple
You'll need:
- A large skillet or Dutch oven. For browning the sausage.
- A 9x13 inch baking dish. For that perfectly baked sausage rice casserole finish.
- A wooden spoon or spatula. For stirring, of course.
Don't stress if you don't have a Dutch oven. A large skillet works just as well. You can even make this into a one pan sausage rice casserole .
Honestly, This cheesy sausage rice casserole is pure comfort food.
Sausage & Cheddar Rice Casserole: Your New Comfort Food Hero
Honestly, you guys, this sausage rice casserole is a game changer. It's total comfort food, but easy enough for a weeknight.
It's like mac 'n' cheese grew up and went to a fancy dinner, if you catch my drift. Think savory sausage, fluffy rice, and gooey cheddar a proper hug in a dish! Perfect for those looking for Sausage Recipes For Dinner .
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission
Alright, first things first. Let’s get organised. Chop your onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Take the Italian sausage out of its casing it’s much easier to brown that way.
Measure out all your spices and cheese. Essential mise en place! This saves so much time. Quick tip: pre-shredded cheese is fine.
step-by-step: From Skillet to Supper
- Preheat your oven to 375° F ( 190° C) . Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Brown 1 pound (450g) of sausage in a large skillet with 1 tbsp olive oil. Break it up, drain off the grease. You want a good color on the sausage.
- Sauté 1 chopped onion and 1 chopped bell pepper for about 5 minutes. Add 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika. Cook for another minute.
- Make the sauce by sprinkling 1/4 cup of flour over the mixture. Cook for a minute, then gradually whisk in 3 cups of chicken broth. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Simmer for 3- 5 minutes, until it thickens.
- Combine everything! Remove from heat, stir in 3 cups of cooked rice and 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bake in the prepared dish for 20- 25 minutes , or until golden brown and bubbly.
Pro Tips: Casserole Confidence
Don't skip browning that sausage! It adds so much flavour. Trust me, it is essential for sausage dinner . Also, avoid overbaking.
It will dry out the casserole. Nobody likes a dry casserole. For cheesy sausage rice casserole , use a good quality cheddar.
This easy sausage rice casserole recipe will soon become a family favorite. Looking to make it a one pan sausage rice casserole ? Use an oven safe skillet!
Elevate Your Sausage Rice Casserole
This sausage rice casserole with vegetables is great as is, but feel free to add other veg. It can be baked sausage rice casserole or a slow cooker version.
For smoked sausage recipes , try swapping the Italian sausage for smoked sausage. Want a creamy sausage rice casserole ? Add an extra splash of cream! So many ways to make it your own.
It's definitely a winner!
Recipe Notes for the Best Sausage Rice Casserole Ever
Alright, so you're ready to make this amazing sausage rice casserole , eh? Before you dive in, let's chat about some crucial bits and bobs to guarantee it turns out bangin' .
Honestly, these tips are what elevate this easy sausage rice casserole recipe from good to bloody brilliant . We're talking proper comfort food levels here.
Think sausage dinner perfection!
Serving Suggestions: Presentation is Key, Mate!
Listen, first impressions matter, even with a cheesy sausage rice casserole . For plating, think rustic charm. A dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley do wonders.
Got some spring onions? Chop 'em up and scatter them on top.
Pair this bad boy with a crisp green salad. The acidity cuts through the richness. Some steamed broccoli or green beans also work wonders.
A nice pint of lager wouldn't go amiss either!
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
Right, so you've got leftovers. Lucky you! This creamy sausage rice casserole keeps well.
Pop it in an airtight container and shove it in the fridge. It'll happily sit there for up to 3 days.
Reheat it in the microwave or oven until piping hot. For freezing, portion it out first. It lasts for about a month in the freezer.
Just defrost it fully before reheating. Make sure it is piping hot ( at least 165° F/ 74° C ).
Variations: Make it Your Own, You Know?
Wanna switch things up? No worries!
For a vegetarian version, swap the sausage for some yummy veggies like mushrooms and courgette. Fry them up with some herbs and Bob's your uncle! If you're feeling a bit fancy, try using Italian sausage recipes with different herbs.
To keep it lighter, use brown rice.
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
Okay, so this baked sausage rice casserole is proper tasty, and it's got some good stuff in it too. You get protein from the sausage and dairy, and fibre from the veggies.
The estimated nutrition is around 520 calories, 25g protein, 35g fat, and 30g carbohydrates per serving. Of course, using lean smoked sausage recipes and brown rice can lower the fat and calorie count.
It's sausage rice casserole with vegetables , so it's practically a health food!
So there you have it! This one pan sausage rice casserole is about to become a firm favourite. Happy cooking, and don't be afraid to experiment.
You’ll be amazed at the tasty sausage recipes for dinner you will create!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make sausage rice casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Sausage rice casserole is a great make-ahead dish. Assemble the casserole as instructed, but don't bake it. Cover it tightly with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, then bake as directed, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if needed, ensuring it's heated through.
How do I store leftover sausage rice casserole?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. A splash of milk or broth can help to rehydrate it if it seems a bit dry after refrigerating.
Think of it as a delicious Boxing Day treat!
What kind of sausage works best in sausage rice casserole?
Italian sausage (sweet or hot) is a classic choice and adds fantastic flavour. However, you can also use other types of sausage like breakfast sausage or even chorizo for a bit of a kick. Just make sure to remove the casings and brown it well before adding it to the casserole.
It's your casserole, so make it your own, mate!
Can I freeze sausage rice casserole?
Yes, you can freeze it! For best results, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil, or placing it in a freezer safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, adding extra baking time if needed.
Is there a healthier version of this sausage rice casserole recipe?
You bet! To make it healthier, use lean sausage, brown rice instead of white, and substitute the heavy cream with half and-half or milk. You can also add more vegetables like chopped broccoli or spinach to boost the nutritional value. Remember, it's all about balance, innit?
What can I add to my sausage rice casserole for a bit of a twist?
Fancy jazzing up your sausage rice casserole? Consider adding some sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of different herbs like thyme or rosemary. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also deepen the flavour, or a few shots of hot sauce can add a kick!
Don't be afraid to experiment and put your own stamp on it.
Sausage Cheddar Rice Casserole
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 520 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 35g |
| Fiber | 30g |
