Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the ultimate Cheesy Smoked Sausage Casserole - a hearty, flavor-packed dish that combines the smoky richness of sausage, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the perfect blend of savory ingredients. This one-pan wonder is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that will have your family begging for seconds and your dinner guests asking for the recipe!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, chopped
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions and bell peppers until they become soft and slightly translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the sausage to brown slightly and release its flavors.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, sautéed sausage, onions, and bell peppers. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the mixture and stir thoroughly to distribute the ingredients evenly.
- Transfer the entire mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out in an even layer.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the casserole, ensuring complete coverage.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and make cutting easier.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh herbs or green onions if desired.
Tips
- For extra flavor, consider using a mix of smoked sausage varieties like andouille or Polish sausage.
- Use day-old rice for best texture, as it absorbs flavors more effectively.
- For a crispy top, broil the casserole for 2-3 minutes after baking.
- Don't skip letting the casserole rest - this helps the flavors meld and makes serving easier.
- For a healthier version, use brown rice and low-fat cheese.
- Customize with additional vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Prep ingredients in advance to make weeknight cooking a breeze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 65mg
