Bold & Spicy Sausage and Rice Casserole (Easy One-Pan Comfort Food)

Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy one-pan dinner? This bold and spicy sausage and rice casserole is a comforting classic packed with rich spices, tender rice, and savory sausage. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this oven-baked casserole delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

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Ingredients for Sausage and Rice Casserole

• 28 ounces fresh ground spicy pork sausage
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 onion slice, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (28-ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, crushed
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

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How to Make Spicy Sausage and Rice Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the spicy pork sausage until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables and Rice

Add the uncooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped bell peppers to the skillet. Cook and stir for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the rice is lightly toasted.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.

Step 5: Transfer and Bake

Pour the mixture into a 9x13-inch baking dish and spread evenly. Bake uncovered for about 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Remove from the oven and let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and the texture firm up.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this spicy sausage and rice bake on its own or pair it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also top it with chopped parsley or shredded cheese for extra flavor.

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Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Calories: 704 kcal per serving
• Servings: 6

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Tips for the Best Sausage Rice Casserole

• Use high-quality spicy sausage for the best flavor.
• Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
• Substitute brown rice if preferred, but increase cooking time accordingly.
• Add beans or corn for extra texture and nutrition.