Description
Looking for a quick dinner idea that’s comforting, satisfying, and totally foolproof? This Sausage and Rice Casserole is the answer. A perfect mix of creamy rice, seasoned sausage, melty cheddar cheese, and savory spices makes this dish a family favorite — and it all bakes in one dish! It’s one of those easy recipes that work for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy weekend meals. Whether you’re after a hearty breakfast-for-dinner twist or reliable meal prep, this is one of those food ideas that just works. If you’re looking for a quick dinner, easy casserole, or new comfort food recipe, this one’s for you.
Ingredients
1 pound ground breakfast sausage
2 cups cooked white rice
1 small onion finely diced
1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
salt and black pepper to taste
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
chopped fresh parsley for garnish
1/2 cup frozen peas or corn
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
1. Cook the sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. If using onions, add them here and cook until softened. Drain excess grease.
2. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, sausage mixture, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, half the cheese, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well.
4. Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish and smooth the top.
5. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top evenly.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Garnish with diced red bell pepper and chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Make ahead by prepping the casserole up to a day in advance, storing it in the fridge, and adding 5–10 extra minutes when baking cold.
Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for a smoother melt.
You can swap sausage with turkey or plant-based sausage for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
Keywords: sausage rice casserole, easy casserole recipe, comfort food, quick dinner, rice dish, breakfast sausage, cheesy rice