One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole: A Quick and Easy Comfort Meal

A One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole is the best way to make a quick, flavorful, and low-effort meal that minimizes cleanup. This dish is the perfect combination of savory sausage, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables, making it ideal for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why Choose a One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole?

• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, saving time on dishwashing.

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples like rice and affordable sausage.

• Versatile: Easily adapts to dietary needs or ingredient preferences.

• Family-Friendly: This appeals to both kids and adults with its savory, comforting flavors.

• Time-Saver: Prep and cook in under an hour, with little hands-on effort.

One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe ingredients

Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

• 1 lb (450g) ground sausage (Italian, breakfast, or smoked sausage)

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup (or cream of celery)

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

• ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for a cheesy finish)

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Optional add-ins: 1 cup diced mushrooms, spinach, cherry tomatoes, or one cup broccoli florets or frozen peas

How to Make Sausage and Rice Casserole

1. Cook the sausage: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat (if using lean sausage). Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (about 7-8 minutes). Drain the fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan to enhance the flavor.

2. Sauté the vegetables: Add diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the same pot. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring until the ingredients are softened and fragrant.

3. Combine the ingredients: Next, stir in the uncooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure the rice is completely coated and submerged in the liquid.

4. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Keep cooking until the rice is firm. Then add an extra quarter cup of broth and cook for five more minutes.

5. Optional Cheesy Finish: Sprinkle cheese over the top. Cover the pot for two to three minutes to melt the cheese. If using an ovenit -safe pot, place under a broiler for two to three minutes until bubbly and golden.

6. Serve: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired, and serve hot.

Tips for the Perfect One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole

• Use a wide, deep skillet or Dutch oven. This will ensure even cooking and enough space for the rice to expand.

• Sausage selection: Italian sausage adds a herby kick, while smoked sausage brings bold flavor. For a lighter option, try turkey or chicken sausage.

• Prevent sticking: Stir occasionally during the simmering process to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

• Adjust liquid: If the rice absorbs the broth too quickly, add a splash more to keep it moist. For a creamier texture, stir in an extra tablespoon of soup.

• Cheese Options: Cheddar is classic, but mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend can add variety.

• Boost Veggies: Add nutrient-rich ingredients like spinach, zucchini, or peas for color and health benefits.

sausage and rice casserole variations

Spicy One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole

Use spicy sausage or chorizo and add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño. Top with pepper jack cheese for extra heat.

Healthy One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole

Swap white rice for brown rice (increase cooking time to 40-45 minutes and add ½ cup extra broth). Use low-fat sausage and a low-sodium soup.

Gluten-Free One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole

Ensure the sausage and cream soup are gluten-free. Gluten-free cream of mushroom soup is available from many brands, or you can make your own.

Cajun One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole

Use andouille sausage and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning. Add diced tomatoes and okra for a Southern twist.

Low-Carb One-Pot Sausage and Rice Casserole

Replace rice with cauliflower rice, reduce broth to 1 cup, and cook for 10-15 minutes until tender.

One-pot Sausage and Rice Casserole: A Quick and Easy Comfort Meal

Recipe by abdinhalaCourse: Recipes, Main course, DinnerCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

6

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

Calories

410

kcal

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground sausage

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 ½ cups chicken broth

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ tsp paprika

• ½ tsp thyme

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Directions

• Preheat oven to 375°F. Grease a baking dish.
• Brown sausage in a skillet; add onion, pepper, and garlic.
• In a bowl, mix the sausage mixture with rice, broth, soup, and spices.
• Pour into dish, cover with foil, and bake for 45–50 minutes.
• Remove foil, top with cheese, and bake uncovered for 10 minutes.
• Rest before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 17g

• Fat: 24g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fiber: 2g

• Sodium: 750mg

Note: Values vary based on sausage type and optional ingredients.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Make-Ahead: Prepare the casserole to the simmering step, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, reheat on the stove, add a splash of broth if needed, and simmer until the rice is tender.

Leftovers: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a bit of broth to restore moisture.

Freezing: Freeze the cooked casserole in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions about the one-pot sausage and rice casserole recipe

Can I use brown rice in a one-pot sausage and rice casserole?

Yes, but brown rice requires 40-45 minutes of simmering and an extra ½ cup of broth. Check for tenderness before serving.

Can I make this casserole without cream of soup?

Substitute with 1 cup of heavy cream, Greek yogurt, or a homemade white sauce for a similar creamy texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze after cooking or before simmering. If freezing raw, thaw completely before cooking to ensure even results.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, crumble or slice pre-cooked sausage and add it during the vegetable sauté step to warm through.

Final thoughts

This one-pot sausage and rice casserole is the perfect solution for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. Its bold flavors, customizable ingredients, and fuss-free preparation make it a go-to for busy weeknights, potlucks, or cozy gatherings.

Try this recipe today and share your favorite twists in the comments! Check out our blog for more one-pot meal ideas, or follow us on social media.