This savory sausage and rice casserole is a delectable one-pot meal brimming with flavors. The succulent chicken sausages, tender rice, and crisp veggies are baked to perfection in a rich chicken broth. This comforting dish is not only easy to make but also packed with nutritious ingredients, making it an ideal choice for quick dinners or hearty lunches.
The key ingredients for this recipe are chicken sausages, short grain rice, and fresh corn. Chicken sausages might not always be readily available in your kitchen, but they're a great source of protein and lend a unique flavor to the dish. Short grain rice is preferable for this recipe as it absorbs the broth well and gives a creamy texture. Fresh corn is another ingredient you might need to pick up from the supermarket. It adds a sweet crunch to the casserole.
Ingredients for Savory Sausage and Rice Casserole
Chicken sausages: They are the main protein source in this dish and provide a hearty, satisfying bite.
Extra virgin olive oil: Used for sautéing the veggies and sausages and adds a layer of flavor.
Red onion: It gives a sweet and mild flavor which forms the base for the casserole.
Garlic: It imparts a robust, aromatic flavor to the dish.
Orange bell pepper: Adds a slight sweetness and crunch to the casserole.
Short grain rice: It absorbs the chicken broth well, providing a creamy and tender texture to the dish.
Chicken broth: It serves as a flavorful liquid base for cooking the rice and sausages.
Salt and pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance the other flavors in the dish.
Fresh corn: Adds a burst of sweetness and enhances the overall texture of the casserole.
Cilantro leaves: Used for garnishing the dish, adding a fresh and herby note.
One reader, Gwenore Blackmon says:
This savory sausage and rice casserole recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the dish is so easy to make. The combination of sausage, rice, and vegetables is simply delicious. It's become a family favorite in our household. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required
How to brown sausages: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausages and cook, turning occasionally, until browned for about 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer the browned sausages to a plate.
How to cook the rice and sausage casserole: After browning the sausages, add the remaining olive oil to the skillet along with the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally until the onion is translucent for about 3 minutes. Then, stir in the rice and chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and bring the liquid to a boil. Add the corn, cover, and bake until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid for about 25 minutes.
How to let the casserole rest: After baking, let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
How to serve the casserole: Top the casserole with fresh cilantro leaves before serving to add a burst of fresh flavor.
How To Make Sausage and Rice Casserole
Prepare a hearty dinner for your family with this sausage rice casserole made with seasonal veggies, sausage, and rice cooked together in one tasty meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbchicken sausagesfully cooked
- 2tbspextra virgin olive oil
- 1red onionsmall, thinly sliced
- 2tspgarlicminced
- 1orange bell pepperlarge, or red bell pepper, ribs, and seeds removed, cut into 1/4-inch slices
- 1½cupsshort grain rice
- 3cupschicken broth
- kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
- 2earsfresh cornsmall, husks and silks removed, cut into 1-in. rounds
- cilantro leavesfor serving
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Pierce sausage all over with the tip of a paring knife.
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In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook, turning occasionally, until browned for about 3 to 5 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
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Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to a skillet along with onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally until onion is translucent for about 3 minutes.
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Season with salt and pepper. Stir in rice, then stock; season again with salt and pepper.
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Return sausage to pan and bring the liquid to a boil. Add corn, cover, and bake until rice is tender and has absorbed all liquid for about 25 minutes.
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Let rest 10 minutes before serving. Top with cilantro leaves.
Nutrition
- Calories: 449.35kcal
- Fat: 28.15g
- Saturated Fat: 6.09g
- Trans Fat: 0.17g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.95g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.78g
- Carbohydrates: 25.18g
- Fiber: 3.09g
- Sugar: 9.27g
- Protein: 24.74g
- Cholesterol: 114.26mg
- Sodium: 1127.30mg
- Calcium: 110.48mg
- Potassium: 707.95mg
- Iron: 2.42mg
- Vitamin A: 67.37µg
- Vitamin C: 45.68mg
Technique Tip for Making a Delicious Sausage and Rice Casserole
When preparing the chicken sausages, make sure to pierce them all over with the tip of a paring knife. This allows the heat to penetrate the sausages more evenly, ensuring they cook thoroughly and evenly. Additionally, it helps to release the juices and flavors of the sausage into the pan, which will then be absorbed by the rice and vegetables, enhancing the overall flavor of the casserole.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Sausage and Rice Casserole
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and prepare the sausage the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
One-pot wonder: Use a large skillet or a Dutch oven to cook the entire dish in one pot, minimizing cleanup and saving time.
Use pre-cooked sausage: Consider using pre-cooked sausages to cut down on cooking time and simplify the recipe.
Instant rice: Substitute instant rice for short grain rice to significantly reduce the cooking time and simplify the process.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and freeze the leftovers for a quick and convenient meal on a busy day.
Efficient chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop the vegetables, saving time and effort in the preparation process.
Substitute Ingredients For Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe
chicken sausages - Substitute with vegetarian sausages: Vegetarian sausages can provide a similar texture and flavor profile to chicken sausages, making them a suitable substitute for a vegetarian option.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mild flavor and a high smoke point, making it a suitable substitute for extra virgin olive oil in this recipe.
red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions can be used as a substitute for red onions, providing a slightly milder flavor while still adding depth to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for fresh garlic, providing a similar flavor without the need for mincing or chopping.
orange bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell peppers can be used as a substitute for orange bell peppers, offering a similar sweet and mild flavor to the dish.
short grain rice - Substitute with arborio rice: Arborio rice can be used as a substitute for short grain rice, providing a similar creamy texture when cooked.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the casserole while catering to vegetarian preferences.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt can be used as a substitute for kosher salt, providing a similar level of salinity to the dish.
fresh corn - Substitute with frozen corn: Frozen corn can be used as a substitute for fresh corn, offering convenience and a consistent texture in the casserole.
cilantro leaves - Substitute with flat-leaf parsley: Flat-leaf parsley can be used as a substitute for cilantro, providing a fresh herbaceous flavor to the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Sausage and Rice Casserole
- Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning ingredients.
- Paring knife: A small, sharp knife used for peeling, trimming, and slicing fruits and vegetables.
- Olive oil: A versatile cooking oil used for sautéing, frying, and dressing salads.
- Baking dish: A deep, oven-safe dish used for baking casseroles and other dishes in the oven.
- Cutting board: A sturdy surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
- Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting and flipping foods.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
- Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring and mixing ingredients.
- Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing.
How To Store and Freeze Your Casserole
Let the casserole cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the dish soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled casserole to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the casserole. Wrap the baking dish securely with plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the dish with the name and date, and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat the refrigerated casserole, cover it with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. Remove the foil during the last 5-10 minutes of baking to crisp up the top, if desired.
If reheating a frozen casserole, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Cover with foil and bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 30-40 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking to crisp up the top, if desired.
Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions of the casserole in the microwave. Place a serving on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.
To maintain the best quality and texture of the rice and sausage, consume the reheated casserole within 2-3 days of refrigeration or thawing.
How To Reheat Leftovers
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover savory sausage and rice casserole to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through. This method helps maintain the casserole's texture and prevents it from drying out.
For a quicker option, use the microwave. Place a portion of the casserole in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated to your desired temperature. The damp paper towel helps keep the rice moist during reheating.
If you have a bit more time, reheat the casserole on the stovetop. Transfer the leftovers to a large skillet or saucepan and add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten the rice. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the casserole is warmed through and the liquid is absorbed. This method allows you to adjust the consistency of the dish as needed.
For a crispy twist, transform your leftover casserole into sausage and rice fritters. Mix the leftovers with an egg and some breadcrumbs, form into patties, and fry in a pan with a bit of olive oil until golden brown on both sides. Serve with a side salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a whole new meal.
If you have a steam oven or a steamer basket, you can also reheat the casserole using moist heat. Place the leftovers in a heat-safe dish and steam for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. This gentle reheating method helps preserve the flavors and textures of the sausage, rice, and vegetables.
Random Fact About Sausage and Rice Casseroles
The savory sausage and rice casserole recipe is a versatile dish that can be customized with different types of sausages and vegetables, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Is This Sausage and Rice Casserole Economical for Home Cooking?
The cost-effectiveness of this savory sausage and rice casserole recipe is quite high. The ingredients, such as chicken sausages, bell pepper, and short grain rice, are generally affordable and readily available. The dish provides a hearty and satisfying meal for a family of four at an approximate cost of $15. The flavors and textures of the dish make it a comforting and enjoyable option for a weeknight dinner. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, simplicity, and delicious outcome.
Is This Sausage and Rice Casserole Healthy or Unhealthy?
This savory sausage and rice casserole recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients such as:
- Chicken sausages, which are a good source of protein
- Vegetables like red onion, garlic, bell pepper, and corn, providing vitamins and fiber
- Short grain rice, offering complex carbohydrates
- Chicken broth, adding flavor and some additional protein
However, there are also some less healthy elements:
- The sausages may be high in sodium and saturated fat, depending on the brand and type used
- The recipe calls for added salt, which could contribute to excessive sodium intake
- The use of olive oil, while a healthier fat option, still adds to the overall calorie count
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for low-sodium, lean chicken sausages to reduce the intake of salt and saturated fat
- Reduce the amount of added salt or omit it altogether, relying on the natural flavors of the ingredients and the broth
- Increase the proportion of vegetables to rice and sausage, boosting the fiber and nutrient content while reducing the calorie density
- Use a lower-sodium chicken broth or substitute with vegetable broth for a similar flavor profile
- Experiment with whole grain rice varieties, such as brown or wild rice, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish
- Garnish with a generous amount of fresh cilantro to add a burst of flavor and visual appeal without additional calories
Editor's Thoughts on This Savory Casserole
This savory sausage and rice casserole recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The chicken sausages add a hearty and savory element, while the bell pepper and corn bring a touch of sweetness and crunch. The use of chicken broth infuses the rice with rich flavor, and the cilantro leaves provide a fresh and aromatic finish. The dish is well-balanced and comforting, making it a perfect choice for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The cooking method ensures that the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a satisfying and delicious casserole.
Enhance Your Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, ensuring a satisfying meal for any occasion. The use of high-quality chicken sausages and short grain rice guarantees a rich and savory taste, while the addition of fresh corn and bell pepper provides a delightful crunch and sweetness. The incorporation of cilantro leaves adds a refreshing herbal note, enhancing the overall dish. With the careful balance of ingredients and precise cooking instructions, this savory sausage and rice casserole promises a delightful dining experience, earning the trust of any discerning home cook.
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