Sausage and Rice Casserole

8 servings Prep: 15 m Cook: 1 h 5 m Total: 1 h 20 m Beginner
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This dish is similar to dirty rice (rice dressing) and is a favorite of our family every holiday. Hot sausage, the holy trinity, and creamy soups baked together with rice make a comforting one-dish meal.

Ingredients

8 servings
  • 1 roll hot sausage
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 clove of garlic minced
  • 1 can cream of mushroom
  • 2 cans cream of chicken soup
  • 1 can water
  • 1 cup raw rice or 3 cups cooked

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
  2. Brown sausage in a large pot, breaking it up as it cooks, about 8-10 minutes. Add vegetables (onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic) and sauté until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add soups and water; mix well. Stir in 1 cup uncooked rice or 3 cups cooked rice.
  4. Transfer to a large casserole size pan. Cover with foil and cook in 350 degree oven for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
  5. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes to brown the top.

Common Problems and Solutions

Q: Should I use raw or cooked rice?

A: Either works! Raw rice gives you a true one-pot meal (add 1 cup raw), while cooked rice (3 cups) speeds up the process and is great for using leftovers.

Q: Can I make this ahead?

A: Yes, assemble completely and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add 10-15 minutes to the covered baking time if starting from cold.

Tips and Techniques

If using raw rice, make sure there’s enough liquid to cook it properly—the rice should be just covered with the soup mixture. Stirring occasionally during baking ensures even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • hot sausage: mild sausage or breakfast sausage
  • cream of mushroom and cream of chicken soup: any combination of cream soups

Equipment Needed

  • large pot
  • large casserole dish
  • aluminum foil