Smoked Sausage & Broccoli Rice Casserole

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A hearty, cheesy casserole loaded with smoky sausage, tender rice, and broccoli — pure comfort food in one dish.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Dietary Badges: Contains Dairy, Contains Gluten, Contains Meat

Ingredients

  • Smoked sausage links, sliced into ½-inch pieces

  • Cooked white rice

  • Cream of mushroom soup

  • Milk

  • White onion, chopped

  • Celery, chopped

  • Broccoli, chopped and cooked

  • Medium cheddar cheese, shredded

  • Seasoned salt

  • Salt

  • Ground black pepper

  • Olive oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish.

  2. Brown Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté sausage slices for about 5 minutes, until browned.

  3. Cook Vegetables: Add onion and celery to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, until tender.

  4. Mix Base: In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and milk. Stir until smooth.

  5. Combine: Add the sausage mixture, cooked broccoli, 1½ cups cheese, seasoned salt, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

  6. Assemble: Transfer to prepared casserole dish. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.

  7. Bake: Cook for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

  8. Serve: Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Notes:

  • Use pre-cooked rice for faster prep.

  • Frozen broccoli can be used — just thaw and drain before adding.

Brief Introduction

This smoked sausage & broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate one-pan dinner — cheesy, savory, and satisfying. It’s perfect for using up cooked rice and makes a crowd-pleasing family meal any night of the week.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Browning & Building Flavor

  1. Preheat & Prep Dish: Heat oven to 350°F and grease the casserole dish to prevent sticking.

  2. Brown the Sausage: In a skillet with olive oil, sauté sausage slices until browned. Tip: Browning enhances the smoky flavor.

  3. Cook Aromatics: Add onion and celery; cook until softened. Tip: Keep heat medium to prevent burning.

Combining the Casserole

  1. Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, stir together rice, cream of mushroom soup, and milk until smooth.

  2. Fold in Add-Ins: Add sausage mixture, cooked broccoli, most of the cheese, seasoned salt, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

Baking to Perfection

  1. Assemble: Spread mixture in prepared dish and top with the rest of the cheese.

  2. Bake: Cook until the cheese is melted and edges are bubbly, about 25–30 minutes.

  3. Cool Slightly: Rest for 5 minutes before serving for cleaner slices.

Ingredient Details & Substitution Tips

  • Smoked Sausage: Adds richness and smoky depth. Swap for turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or plant-based sausage.

  • Cooked Rice: White rice is classic, but brown rice, quinoa, or wild rice blends also work.

  • Cream of Mushroom Soup: You can use cream of chicken or cream of celery soup instead.

  • Cheddar Cheese: Medium cheddar melts beautifully; try mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for spice.

  • Broccoli: Use fresh or frozen; other vegetables like cauliflower or peas make great swaps.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Spicy Version: Add 1–2 tsp hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne to the mixture.

  • Loaded Veggie: Stir in chopped bell peppers or spinach for extra color and nutrition.

  • Extra Creamy: Mix ½ cup sour cream or cream cheese into the base.

  • Serving Ideas: Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread.

Storage & Make-Ahead Information

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

  • Reheating: Bake at 350°F for 15–20 minutes, or microwave in short bursts.

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours ahead, cover, and refrigerate; bake as directed.

Nutrition Facts (per serving, 8 servings)

Calories: ~420 kcal | Carbs: 29g | Protein: 18g | Fat: 26g | Fiber: 2g | Sodium: 960mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use uncooked rice?
A: No — the recipe requires pre-cooked rice to ensure proper texture and cooking time.

Q: Can I make this without cream soup?
A: Yes — use 1 cup homemade white sauce (butter, flour, milk) plus ½ cup broth instead.

Q: How do I make it gluten-free?
A: Use a gluten-free condensed soup and ensure your sausage and seasonings are GF-certified.

Personal Story

This casserole was born from a fridge clean-out on a Sunday afternoon — leftover rice, a pack of sausage, and some broccoli came together in one bubbling, cheesy bake. It’s been a family favorite ever since because it’s as easy as it is comforting.

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