Let me share with you one of my all-time favorite comforting dishes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—the Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe. This hearty casserole combines savory Italian sausage with colorful bell peppers, aromatic herbs, and cheesy goodness all baked together with fluffy rice. It’s the perfect one-dish meal that’s easy enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for company. Once you try it, you’ll see why this recipe holds a special place in my kitchen and heart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and fresh ingredients is the first step to making this Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe fabulous. Each item plays a vital role, building layers of flavor, texture, and inviting color that make this dish a standout meal.
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage: Delivers rich, savory depth and a bit of spice to the casserole.
- 1 large onion (diced): Adds sweetness and a classic aromatic base for the dish.
- 1 green bell pepper (diced): Brings crunch and a fresh pop of color.
- 1 red bell pepper (diced): Offers sweetness and vibrant contrast to the green pepper.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a warm, fragrant flavor that wakes up the whole recipe.
- 2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked): Acts as the hearty, fluffy foundation soaking up all the delicious liquids.
- 4 1/2 cups chicken broth: Cooks the rice perfectly and enriches the casserole with savory moisture.
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes (undrained): Adds tangy brightness and a juicy component that balances richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Introduces classic Italian herb flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Enhances the overall aroma and light herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings all the flavors together in harmony.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Provides a subtle smokiness and gentle warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Offers just the right amount of kick without overpowering.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a luscious, creamy topping that everyone loves.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish to brighten the dish visually and in flavor.
How to Make Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground Italian sausage along with the diced onion and bell peppers. Break the sausage apart as you cook to ensure even browning. After about 8 to 10 minutes, the sausage should be fully browned, and the vegetables soft and fragrant. This step is crucial for building the deep, savory base that carries the casserole’s flavor.
Step 2: Add Garlic for Aroma
Once the sausage and veggies are ready, stir in the minced garlic and cook it just for a minute until you can smell that wonderful garlicky fragrance wafting through your kitchen. This adds a fresh burst of flavor that complements the richness of the sausage perfectly.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
Transfer your sausage and vegetable mixture into a large mixing bowl. Now add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes along with their juice, and all the dried herbs and spices including oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to combine. This mixture brings together every flavor element and sets the stage for baking.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Pour the combined mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover it lightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a 375°F oven for 45 minutes. Covering the dish locks in moisture to cook the rice perfectly and lets all the flavors meld together beautifully inside the oven.
Step 5: Add the Cheese Topping
After 45 minutes, take the casserole out and remove the foil to give everything a good stir. Then, sprinkle the generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. This step transforms the dish as the cheese melts into a rich, gooey topping that makes it truly irresistible.
Step 6: Final Bake Uncovered
Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. This ensures a pleasing contrast of creamy cheese with the tender rice and savory sausage beneath.
Step 7: Rest and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5 minutes to settle. Just before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely fresh touch that enhances both appearance and flavor.
How to Serve Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a bright green pop of color and a subtle herbaceous freshness that lifts the richness of the sausage and cheese. If you like, a light drizzle of hot sauce or a few red pepper flakes can add an exciting kick.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted vegetables to add a fresh, crunchy contrast. Steamed broccoli or a medley of roasted root veggies work especially well alongside the creamy, cheesy main.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, scoop the casserole into individual ramekins and top each with a sprig of fresh parsley or even a small dollop of sour cream. You can also serve it alongside warm crusty bread or garlic bread for a heartier meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Sausage and Rice Casserole stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It tastes fantastic the next day as the flavors continue to deepen. Just reheat it gently to maintain the creamy texture without drying it out.
Freezing
This casserole also freezes beautifully. Place leftovers in a freezer-safe container or wrap the entire baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole loosely with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until heated through. For a quicker method, microwave individual portions on medium power, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage for this casserole?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage offers a classic flavor, you can experiment with spicy chorizo, turkey sausage for a lighter option, or even vegetarian sausage to suit your preferences and dietary needs.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
Yes, this Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you check that your sausage and broth do not contain any hidden gluten ingredients. Always double-check labels to be safe.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
You can substitute brown rice, but because it takes longer to cook, you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount. It’s best to pre-cook the brown rice before assembling the casserole to ensure it’s tender.
How spicy is this casserole?
The heat level depends mainly on the type of Italian sausage you use. Mild sausage yields a more gentle flavor, while hot sausage adds warmth. You can also increase spices like paprika or add red pepper flakes for more kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, keep it covered in the refrigerator, and bake it fresh when you’re ready. Just add the cheese topping before baking to ensure a melty, bubbly finish.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the best way possible. It’s comfort, convenience, and crowd-pleasing flavor all rolled into one satisfying dish. I truly hope you dive into making it soon and enjoy every cheesy, savory bite as much as I do!
Print
Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This hearty Sausage and Rice Casserole combines savory Italian sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and aromatic herbs with tender rice baked in a flavorful tomato and chicken broth base. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, it’s a comforting one-dish meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground Italian sausage
- 1 large onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Grains and Liquids
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 4 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
Seasonings and Cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook sausage and vegetables: Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, diced onion, and diced green and red bell peppers together, breaking up the sausage with a wooden spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and vegetables are softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked sausage and vegetable mixture with uncooked rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, dried oregano, dried basil, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Prepare for baking: Transfer the combined mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Lightly cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture during baking.
- Bake the casserole: Place the covered baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- Add cheese: Remove the casserole from the oven and uncover. Stir gently to mix the ingredients slightly, then evenly sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Finish baking: Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole stand for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired before serving.
Notes
- Using undrained diced tomatoes adds moisture and flavor to the dish.
- Feel free to substitute Italian sausage with turkey sausage for a leaner option.
- Covering the casserole during the initial bake prevents the rice from drying out.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving helps it set for easier slicing and serving.
- To make it spicier, add crushed red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage.
