This Cheesy Sausage and Rice Casserole is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Packed with smoky sausage, creamy rice, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s a one-dish wonder that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Serve it as a main dish or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 1 hour
Total Time
- 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings
- 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage, chopped onion, and green bell pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is lightly browned.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth and fully combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Casserole
- Stir the uncooked rice and the cooked sausage mixture into the sauce mixture. Mix until everything is evenly coated.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes .
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes , or until the cheese is bubbly, golden, and the rice is tender and cooked through.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
- Let the casserole cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the dish to set.
- Serve warm and enjoy this cheesy, savory comfort food with family and friends!
Pro Tips
- Rice Variations: Use long-grain white rice or jasmine rice for best results. Avoid instant rice, as it may cook too quickly and become mushy.
- Add Veggies: Include diced carrots, peas, or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 5–10 minutes to the cooking time if starting cold.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Sausage and Rice Casserole is a crowd-pleasing dish that combines smoky sausage, creamy rice, and melty cheese into one delicious bite. It’s easy to prepare, uses pantry staples, and bakes up beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a potluck, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Ready to whip up this comforting, cheesy casserole? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a hearty, flavorful dish—it’s pure comfort food magic!
