Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Casserole: A Comforting Family Favorite

JUMP TO RECIPE

When it comes to easy, satisfying, and hearty meals, few dishes are as universally loved as a casserole. And when that casserole is loaded with smoky sausage, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice, it becomes an instant hit at any dinner table. If you’re on the hunt for a meal that combines convenience with comfort, then this Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Casserole is the perfect recipe for you.

This dish has everything you need: smoky flavor from the sausage, rich creaminess from the cheese and mushroom soup, and just enough heat from the Cajun spices to keep things interesting. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family on a weeknight or looking for a crowd-pleasing meal for a gathering, this casserole will deliver. Let’s dive into why this recipe should be your next go-to.

Ingredients for Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Casserole

Before you start making this cheesy, comforting casserole, let’s take a quick look at the ingredients. You likely already have most of these items in your pantry or fridge, and the best part is that you can easily swap some of them to suit your preferences. Here’s what you’ll need to create this tasty meal:

Table of Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount	Notes
Smoked sausage (sliced & quartered)	1 pound	Choose your favorite smoked sausage, such as kielbasa or andouille for added flavor.
Water	1/4 cup	Helps cook the sausage without sticking to the pan.
Diced onions	1 cup	Adds a natural sweetness and savory flavor to the casserole.
Cajun seasoning	1 tsp	Gives the casserole a kick of flavor. You can adjust the quantity depending on how spicy you want it.
Black pepper	1 tsp	Adds depth and complements the other spices.
Red pepper flakes	1/2 tsp	Optional, but they elevate the spiciness and flavor of the dish.
Cream of mushroom soup	1 can (10.5 ounces)	The base for your creamy sauce.
Chicken broth	1 cup	Provides additional flavor and moisture to the casserole.
Milk	1/4 cup	Adds creaminess to the sauce, balancing the richness of the cheese.
Sharp cheddar cheese (shredded)	3 cups (2 cups + 1 cup)	Essential for that gooey, cheesy goodness.
Cooked white rice	2 cups	This is the base of the casserole and provides the bulk of the dish.

Customize Your Casserole

While this recipe works beautifully with these ingredients, feel free to make substitutions based on your preferences or dietary needs. For example:

• Spices: If you’re not a fan of Cajun seasoning or want a milder dish, you can swap it for Italian seasoning or a pinch of paprika.
• Meat: If you’re not into smoked sausage, try chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative.
• Cheese: Although sharp cheddar adds a bold flavor, mozzarella or Monterey Jack would be great choices for a milder, creamier taste. Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Filet Mignon with Shrimp and Lobster Cream

How to Make Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Casserole

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients, it’s time to turn them into a cheesy, flavorful casserole that will leave your family asking for seconds. This recipe is as simple as it gets, but the result is packed with flavor. Follow these easy steps to create the perfect dish:

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Dish

First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This ensures that the casserole will bake evenly and come out perfectly bubbly and golden brown. While the oven heats up, lightly coat a 7×11-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the casserole from sticking to the dish during baking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, add 1/4 cup of water and your sliced smoked sausage. Set the pan over medium-high heat and cook the sausage, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned on both sides and the water has mostly evaporated. If the sausage starts to stick to the pan, add an extra tablespoon of water at a time to keep it from burning.

Step 3: Add the Onions and Spices

Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onions to the pan. Sauté them until they soften and become translucent, which will take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in Cajun seasoning, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you’re using them). These spices will bring out the richness of the sausage and give the casserole that delicious Cajun flair. Mix everything well, making sure the onions and sausage are evenly coated in the seasonings.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Now, it’s time to create the creamy sauce that will coat all the ingredients. Pour in 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1/4 cup of milk. Stir everything together, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken slightly.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Rice

Once the sauce is simmering, stir in 2 cups of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely into the sauce, creating a smooth and creamy texture. Then, add 2 cups of cooked rice to the skillet, mixing everything together until the rice is fully incorporated into the cheesy sauce.

Step 6: Transfer to the Baking Dish

Take your prepared baking dish and pour the sausage, cheese, and rice mixture into it. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, ensuring that it’s level in the dish.

Step 7: Top with More Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. This will form a nice cheesy crust as it bakes. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The cheesy, creamy goodness is ready to be devoured!

Why This Smoked Sausage and Rice Casserole is a Winner

There’s more to love about this casserole than just its comforting flavors and easy preparation. Here’s why this dish should be a staple in your weekly dinner rotation:

Quick & Easy for Busy Nights

Life is hectic, and sometimes you need a meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. This casserole is ready in about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights when you don’t have a lot of time to cook but still want something delicious.

A Crowd-Pleaser

Whether you’re cooking for just your family or hosting a gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to be a hit. The combination of smoky sausage, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese is irresistible to both kids and adults alike. It’s the kind of dish that everyone will be reaching for seconds.

Comforting and Filling

A hearty dish like this one is ideal for those days when you need something comforting and filling. With the richness of the sausage, the creaminess of the cheese, and the texture of the rice, this casserole will leave you feeling satisfied without being overly heavy.

Tips for the Perfect Casserole

Customize to Your Taste

While this recipe is already full of flavor, there are plenty of ways to make it your own:

• Adjust the Spice Level: Not a fan of spice? You can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes, or skip them entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
• Experiment with Meat: If smoked sausage isn’t your thing, try using turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage option for a different take.
• Mix Up the Cheese: While sharp cheddar adds a bold, tangy flavor, you could swap it with mozzarella for a milder taste or use a blend of cheeses for more depth.

Make-Ahead and Freezer-Friendly

If you like meal prepping, this casserole is perfect for making ahead. Assemble the casserole, but don’t bake it just yet. Cover it tightly and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply place it in the oven and cook as directed.

For longer storage, you can freeze this casserole for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container, and bake from frozen when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Serving Suggestions for Your Casserole

While the casserole is delicious on its own, here are a few side dishes that pair perfectly with it:

• Green Salad: A light and fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette will balance out the richness of the casserole.
• Garlic Bread: Serve some warm, buttery garlic bread on the side for an extra indulgent meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, green beans, or carrots for a healthy, colorful side that complements the casserole.

Nutrition Information for Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Casserole

This casserole is packed with protein, flavor, and comfort. Here’s a breakdown of the nutrition information:

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	500
Protein	20g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fat	30g
Fiber	1g

While it’s a bit indulgent, it offers a balanced meal with protein from the sausage and cheese, carbs from the rice, and fats to keep you satisfied.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. It’s perfect for meal prep.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses will work well in this casserole. Each will bring its unique flavor to the dish.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great substitute. Just keep in mind that it will need a longer cooking time, so adjust your baking time accordingly.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this casserole freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Conclusion

The Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Casserole is the kind of dish that delivers on both flavor and convenience. With smoky sausage, rich cheese, and a creamy, comforting sauce, it’s a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s quick, filling, and can be customized to suit your tastes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a gathering with loved ones.

So, why not give it a try tonight? You won’t regret it

Print