Hearty Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe

There's something magical about the way smoky sausage and tender rice come together in a casserole. This hearty dish takes inspiration from Louisiana's rich culinary heritage while keeping things simple enough for a weeknight dinner. The combination of spicy andouille sausage and aromatic rice, enriched with colorful vegetables and a creamy sauce, creates a meal that's both satisfying and memorable.

This recipe came about during one particularly cold winter when I was craving something that would warm both body and soul. While traditional rice casseroles often lean mild, this version kicks things up with bold Cajun seasonings and the deep flavors of andouille sausage. The result is a perfect balance between comfort food and exciting flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced into rounds
• 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can cream of mushroom soup
• 1 can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onion, celery, and bell pepper until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. In a large bowl, combine the uncooked rice, sautéed vegetables, browned sausage, chicken broth, cream of mushroom soup, diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning. Mix well.
5. Pour the mixture into your prepared baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. Remove from oven, uncover, and stir gently. Top with grated cheddar cheese and return to oven, uncovered, for an additional 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Pro Tips:

• For best results, choose andouille sausage for its authentic Cajun flavor. However, any smoked sausage will work well.
• Don't skip the resting time - it allows the casserole to set properly and makes serving easier.
• Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred heat level.

This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Leftovers will be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually develop further overnight, making day-two servings particularly delicious.

What makes this version special is how the rice absorbs all the wonderful flavors from the sausage and vegetables while cooking, creating layers of taste in every bite. The creamy sauce brings everything together, while the cheesy top adds that irresistible golden finish that makes casseroles so appealing.

Serve this hearty dish with a simple green salad on the side, and you've got a complete meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're feeding a hungry crowd or looking for comforting leftovers throughout the week, this Sausage and Rice Casserole delivers satisfaction in every serving.