Cheesy Sausage and Rice Bake

A Comforting One-Pan Dinner

If you’re looking for a hearty, easy-to-make, and absolutely delicious meal that the whole family will love, this Cheesy Sausage and Rice Bake is the answer! This dish is a perfect blend of smoky sausage, tender rice, creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Best of all, it comes together in just one oven-safe skillet, making cleanup a breeze!

Whether you’re a busy parent needing a quick weeknight dinner or someone who enjoys cozy comfort food, this recipe checks all the boxes. With a simple ingredient list and minimal prep, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal on the table in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy: Uses simple ingredients and requires minimal prep work.
  • One-pan meal: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy with family.
  • Full of flavor: The smoked sausage, peppers, and creamy cheese sauce create a rich, satisfying taste.
  • Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit your preferences and dietary needs.
  • Great for leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 ring (13.5 ounces) smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into ¼-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow onion, finely diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, finely diced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
  • 2 cups instant white rice
  • 2 cans (10.75 ounces each) cream of chicken soup
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups mild cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
  • ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, sliced into 4 pats
  • Parsley, for garnish

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • 15-inch oven-safe skillet
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Aluminum foil
  • Wooden spoon for stirring

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Sauté the Sausage

Preheat your oven to 400°F. In a large, oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage slices and sear them for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a nice, golden brown crust.

2. Mix the Ingredients

Remove the skillet from heat. Add the diced onion, green and red bell peppers, minced garlic, rice, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, 1 cup of shredded cheese, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.

3. Top and Bake

Evenly distribute the butter slices on top of the mixture and sprinkle the remaining cheese over it. Cover the skillet with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

4. Final Touches

After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with fresh parsley and adjust salt if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Variations and Swaps

  • Protein swap: Use cooked chicken, shrimp, or ground beef instead of sausage.
  • Spice it up: Add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce.
  • Cheese options: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.
  • Rice alternative: Use cooked brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist (adjust liquid accordingly).
  • Veggies galore: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.

How to Store Leftovers

This dish stores beautifully and tastes just as good the next day!

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm up in the microwave or in an oven at 350°F until heated through. Add a splash of broth to keep it moist.

What to Serve with Cheesy Sausage and Rice

This meal is satisfying on its own, but you can pair it with:

  • A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette
  • Garlic bread or dinner rolls for dipping into the cheesy sauce
  • Steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for a balanced plate
  • A refreshing iced tea or a cold glass of white wine

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything in the skillet (before baking), cover, and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the rice is tender.

What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?

Try cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup, or a homemade mix of butter, flour, chicken broth, and heavy cream.

How can I make this dish healthier?

  • Use brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber.
  • Swap low-fat cheese and soup for a lighter version.
  • Reduce the butter or use olive oil instead.
  • Add extra vegetables like spinach or kale.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Sausage and Rice Bake is a comforting, easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home and makes great leftovers for the next day. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight meal or serving it to guests, it’s bound to be a hit.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family! And be sure to subscribe to the blog for more delicious and easy meal ideas. Happy cooking!

Leave a Comment