Brown Rice Sausage Casserole

Brown Rice Sausage Casserole Recipe - Pork Sausage, Brown Rice, and More

Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4-6

Introduction

This Brown Rice Sausage Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner. The combination of savory pork sausage, earthy brown rice, and creamy mushroom soup creates a delicious and satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.

History

The origins of this recipe are unclear, but casseroles have long been a popular choice for home cooks looking for an easy and delicious meal to feed a crowd. This particular casserole combines classic ingredients like sausage and rice with a creamy mushroom sauce for a comforting and flavorful dish.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) of bulk pork sausage
2 cups of cooked brown rice
0.75 cup of milk
1 large stalk of celery (about 0.75 cup), chopped
0.33 cup of green pepper
1 small onion, chopped (about 0.25 cup)
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 can of sliced mushrooms, drained

How to prepare

Cook and stir the pork sausage in a Dutch oven until it turns brown. Drain the excess fat.
Add the rice, milk, celery, green pepper, onion, soup, and mushrooms. Stir well.
Pour the mixture into an ungreased 2 qt (1.89 liter) casserole dish.
Cook uncovered in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) until it becomes bubbly, which should take about 45 minutes.
Enjoy the dish!

Variations

Use ground turkey or chicken sausage instead of pork sausage for a lighter option.
Add cooked broccoli or spinach to the casserole for extra vegetables.
Top the casserole with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the excess fat from the cooked sausage to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy.

- You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices to the mix.

- For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs or grated cheese on top of the casserole before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this casserole with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

This casserole is baked in the oven until bubbly and golden brown.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use white rice or another grain in place of brown rice in this recipe.

Make Ahead Tips

You can assemble this casserole ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this casserole in individual ramekins for a cute and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Brown Rice Sausage Casserole contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this casserole contains approximately 15 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This casserole is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, iron, and calcium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk) and wheat (cream of mushroom soup), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or wheat allergies.

Summary

This Brown Rice Sausage Casserole is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Brown Rice Sausage Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner. With a creamy mushroom sauce, savory sausage, and hearty brown rice, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your household.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was immediately drawn to it. It was a simple yet hearty dish that seemed perfect for a cozy family dinner. The recipe for Brown Rice Sausage Casserole was given to me by my dear friend Margaret, who had learned it from her own grandmother many years ago.

Margaret and I had been friends for as long as I could remember. We met in our small town church choir when we were just girls and had been inseparable ever since. Margaret was a wonderful cook, and I often found myself envious of the delicious meals she would whip up in her cozy kitchen.

One day, Margaret invited me over for dinner and served me this incredible Brown Rice Sausage Casserole. I couldn't get enough of it! The flavors were rich and comforting, and the dish was filling without being heavy. I begged Margaret for the recipe, and she kindly obliged.

As I read through the recipe, I could see that it was a dish that had been passed down through generations. The handwritten notes on the paper were faded and smudged, evidence of the many times it had been used and cherished. I felt honored to be given such a special recipe, and I couldn't wait to try my hand at making it myself.

The first step in making the casserole was to cook the brown rice until it was tender and fluffy. I added a pinch of salt to the water and let it simmer on the stove, filling the kitchen with a warm, nutty aroma. Next, I browned some Italian sausage in a skillet, savoring the spicy scent that filled the air.

Once the sausage was cooked through, I mixed it with the cooked rice in a large bowl. I added diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and a generous handful of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring everything together until it was well combined. The mixture was thick and hearty, promising a delicious meal.

I transferred the rice and sausage mixture to a baking dish and topped it with a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. I covered the dish with foil and placed it in the oven to bake, eagerly anticipating the moment when I would be able to dig in.

As the casserole baked, the scent of melting cheese and savory sausage wafted through the kitchen, making my mouth water. I could hardly wait for the timer to ding, signaling that it was time to enjoy the fruits of my labor.

When the casserole was finally done, I pulled it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving myself a generous portion. The first bite was heavenly – the creamy rice, the spicy sausage, the gooey cheese all melding together in a perfect symphony of flavors. I knew I had found a new favorite dish.

Over the years, I made the Brown Rice Sausage Casserole countless times, sharing it with friends and family who always raved about its deliciousness. It became a staple at our family gatherings, a dish that brought everyone together around the table in joy and gratitude.

I often think of Margaret when I make this casserole, remembering the day she shared the recipe with me and the many happy memories we created together in the kitchen. I am grateful for her friendship and for the gift of this wonderful recipe that has brought so much love and warmth to my home.

As I sit down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Brown Rice Sausage Casserole, I can't help but feel a deep sense of contentment. The recipe may have come from Margaret, but the love and care that I pour into making it are all my own. And that, to me, is the true essence of cooking – sharing not just a meal, but a piece of yourself with those you hold dear.