This Spicy Sausage and Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for a family dinner or a cozy meal. With its robust combination of spicy sausage, colorful peppers, and tangy tomatoes, this casserole is sure to be a hit.
Ingredients:
- 28 ounces fresh, ground spicy pork sausage
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (28 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Directions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
- Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the spicy pork sausage until fully cooked. Once browned, drain off any excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- To the skillet with the sausage, add the uncooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, chopped green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook and stir the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Combine with Tomatoes and Broth:
- Stir in the crushed whole peeled tomatoes along with their juices, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bake:
- Transfer the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Place in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 704
- Fat: 53g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Protein: 19g
This casserole is not only filling but also packs a punch with its spicy flavors, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals. Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to balance out the richness. Enjoy your meal with this satisfying and spicy delight!
Spicy Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This Spicy Sausage and Rice Casserole is a hearty, flavorful dish that packs a punch with every bite. Featuring smoky sausage, zesty spices, and tender rice, it's a one-pot meal that's perfect for those who love a little heat in their dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casing removed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, any color, diced
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional for extra heat)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions
-
Cook the Sausage:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
-
Sauté Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
-
Add Rice and Liquids:
- Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, and chicken broth. Season with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
-
Simmer the Casserole:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
-
Add Peas and Cheese:
- Stir in the frozen peas and continue to cook for another 5 minutes, uncovered. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and cover until the cheese is melted.
-
Serve:
- Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a less spicy version, use mild Italian sausage and omit the jalapeño.
- Customize with other vegetables like corn or diced carrots for more color and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
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