Indulge in the comforting flavors of a classic dish with a twist – Cheesy Sausage and Rice Casserole. Bursting with savory smoked sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and gooey cheddar cheese, this one-pot wonder is a surefire hit for family dinners or potluck gatherings. Simple to prepare yet brimming with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your meal rotation. Follow along as we dive into the easy steps to create this mouthwatering dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into ¼-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups instant white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth, heated
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded (divided)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté Sausage: Add sausage slices to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté until soft and aromatic.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Add instant white rice, heated chicken broth, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with optional red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Bake: Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top of the mixture. Cover with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Final Touch: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the cheesy sausage and rice casserole with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.
Tips:
- Customize the recipe by using your favorite type of sausage or adding additional vegetables such as mushrooms or spinach.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Make this dish ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for convenient meal prep.
Conclusion: In just under an hour, you can treat yourself and your loved ones to the irresistible flavors of Cheesy Sausage and Rice Casserole. With its hearty ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe delivers satisfaction with every bite. Try it today and savor the cheesy goodness!