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Creamy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 34 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 5 servings
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American

Description

A comforting and flavorful Creamy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole that combines spicy Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms and onions, and tender rice all cooked in savory chicken broth. Finished with creamy sour cream, Italian seasoning, and a crunchy almond and parsley topping, this casserole is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a hearty family meal.


Ingredients

Sausage and Vegetables

  • 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
  • 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Rice and Broth

  • 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth

Finishing Touches

  • 1/2 cup light sour cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup sliced almonds
  • 2 tablespoons chopped parsley


Instructions

  1. Cook Italian Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the spicy Italian sausage for 5 to 6 minutes, breaking it into small pieces to ensure even cooking. Once browned and cooked through, remove the sausage from the skillet and drain any excess grease.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and finely chopped onions. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and release their flavors. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring to prevent burning and to release the garlic aroma.
  3. Cook Rice: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the long grain white rice and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
  4. Finish Dish: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the light sour cream and Italian seasoning to make the dish creamy and flavorful. Mix well to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.
  5. Serve: Spoon the casserole onto plates and top each serving with sliced almonds and chopped parsley for added crunch and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy this hearty meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute spicy Italian sausage with mild sausage if you prefer less heat.
  • For a richer texture, use full-fat sour cream instead of light.
  • If you want a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
  • Ensure to cover the skillet properly when simmering rice to prevent it from drying out.
  • Toasting the sliced almonds lightly before adding can enhance their flavor and crunch.