Sausage and Rice Casserole

This easy sausage and rice casserole recipe is a nearly effortless way to get a healthy meal from the oven to the dinner table in no time. Using cooked sausages, fresh broccoli, and simple ingredients from the pantry, you can whip this up quickly and feed the entire family.

One of the things that I love about this recipe is that it’s easy to customize. Whether you’re missing one of the ingredients, or you want to be creative, there are plenty of swaps you can make.

To add some color or extra flavor I sometimes add chopped onion, green pepper, or red bell pepper. We also switch out the cheddar sometimes for other varieties like colby or parmesan cheese.

If you’re looking for an easy dish that the whole family will love, try making this savory sausage and rice.

Common Questions about Sausage and Rice Casserole

Can I put uncooked rice directly in the casserole? 

While you can do it this way (with the broth) we have not experimented with cooking time using that method. Additionally, you would want to monitor the casserole while baking to see if it needs to be stirred so that the rice cooks evenly.

Why didn’t the rice in my casserole cook all the way?

This happens when it has not cooked for a long enough period of time. This is less likely to occur when you cook it in the saucepan like this recipe recommends.

Why is my rice overcooked?

If there’s too much liquid for the rice to absorb it becomes mushy. Be precise when measuring liquids for casseroles with rice. 

Making Sausage and Rice Casserole Ahead of Time

You can slice the sausage and chop the broccoli ahead of time. You can also prepare the rice and broccoli ahead so that you can just place all of the ingredients in the dish when you’re ready to bake.

Storage

It’s easy to store this casserole — just cover the baking dish with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in the fridge once it’s reached room temperature. You can quickly reheat it the next day in the oven or the microwave.

Refrigerator: Store the casserole in its original dish or in another airtight container for 3-5 days.

Freezing: The rice in this dish may not retain its original texture after thawing. However, if you still want to freeze it you can do so in a freezer-safe container or a freezer bag for up to 3 months.

Tips For The Best Sausage and Rice Casserole

This is a pretty easy recipe but here are a few tips to make sure you make the most delicious casserole.

• Be sure not to overcook the rice and broccoli on the stovetop. Since it will have more time to cook in the oven, overcooking it could cause the ingredients to become mushy. 
• If there’s time, grate your own cheese. Freshly grated cheese has better flavor and a superior texture (over pre-packaged shredded cheese) when melted.
• Remember to not drain the tomatoes. The liquid from the canned tomatoes adds moisture and flavor.

Ingredients

With a simple list of ingredients, this meal is cost-effective and easy.

• Smoked sausage (cut into rounds)
• Chicken broth
• Long grain rice (white; uncooked)
• Garlic powder
• Salt
• Ground black pepper
• Broccoli florets
• Diced tomatoes (Italian-style; undrained)
• Sharp cheddar cheese (grated)

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need 

The best part of making a casserole is how few dishes need to be washed after dinner.

• Casserole dish
• Saucepan
• Large bowl
• Wooden spoon

How to Make Sausage and Rice Casserole

In the style of a classic casserole, this dish comes together quickly.

1. Slice the sausage into uniform-sized pieces. 
2. Pour the chicken broth into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Then, pour the uncooked white rice into the broth.
4. Turn the heat level to low and allow the broth and rice to simmer.
5. Once the rice has simmered for the recommended amount of time, add the broccoli and continue to cook. 
6. When the broccoli and rice are ready, remove the pan from the heat. 
7. Transfer the broccoli and rice mixture to a large bowl. 
8. Add the salt, pepper, and garlic powder and stir until completely combined.
9. Pour in the tomatoes and add the sausage.
10. Once mixed, pour the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish.
11. Add cheese to the top and cover with foil.
12. Bake the casserole most of the way before removing the foil to allow the cheese to melt.
13. When the casserole is bubbling, it is ready to be removed from the oven.
14. Serve warm with desired sides.

What to Serve With Rice and Sausage Casserole

This dish is a hearty main dish on its own but you can serve some side dishes as well.

• Salad – A simple green salad goes perfectly with this meal.
• Bread – In the last few minutes of baking the casserole, pop a baguette in the oven to warm and serve with the casserole.
• Soup – Cream soups like cream of mushroom soup or tomato-based soups like vegetable soup are both great sides to serve with sausage and rice.

Why You Should Make This Cheesy Sausage and Rice Recipe

Casseroles make for a perfect, quick-to-make meal especially since there’s so little cleanup.

• Easy – If you’re looking for an easy dinner for busy weeknights, you’ve found it! Plus, it reheats well so it’s great for making ahead or enjoying leftovers.
• Flavorful – With smoky sausage, rich broth, and garlic flavor this dish packs a punch of flavor. 
• Affordable – This dish is packed full of ingredients that are super affordable.
• Healthy – With protein, veggies, and rice this is one well-rounded meal.

Variations and Add-ins

This easy recipe can be dressed up with some simple additions or swaps.

• Heat – For some spiciness, try throwing in cayenne pepper or roasted red pepper flakes.
• Rice – Instead of white rice you could substitute brown rice, wild rice, or your favorite variety.
• Vegetables – Chop up bell peppers or fresh mushrooms or dice up a yellow onion or green onions to add in. You could also add sweet corn or yellow squash.
• Spices – Onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika are a few options to add layers of flavor.
• Broth – If you prefer you could substitute beef or vegetable broth for the chicken broth.
• Protein – You can substitute smoked chicken sausage or your favorite plant-based alternative. Or, omit the meat altogether, making it with only vegetables.
• Oil – Instead of cooking spray you can add some healthy fat by adding olive oil or another neutral oil.
• Tomato sauce – For a thicker sauce with more tomato flavor, omit the liquid from the diced tomatoes and add a small can of tomato sauce instead.

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