Ingredients
14 oz smoked sausage, sliced
1 cup uncooked long grain white rice
1 small onion, chopped
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (or blend)
1 tbsp olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13″ casserole dish.Sauté (Optional for Flavor)
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté sliced smoked sausage, onions, and bell peppers for 5–6 minutes until lightly browned. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.Assemble the Casserole
In the casserole dish, combine the uncooked rice, sausage and vegetable mixture, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove foil, sprinkle cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven for 10 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Let Rest and Serve
Allow casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley or green onions if desired.
Notes
Swap smoked sausage for turkey or chicken sausage to reduce fat.
Use long grain, jasmine, or brown rice for best texture; instant rice also works with adjusted liquid and cook time.
Add extra veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or corn for nutrition and color.
Can be made dairy-free and gluten-free with substitutions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner / Main Dish
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 17g