If you’re craving a comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug, this Creamy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. It’s bursting with bold flavors from spicy Italian sausage, earthy mushrooms, and fragrant herbs, all wrapped up in a luscious creamy sauce that perfectly coats tender rice. Every bite delivers a wonderful balance of savory, creamy, and crunchy textures, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to make on repeat. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll quickly become a family favorite that’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to whip up.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this casserole starts with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a special role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the spicy kick of the sausage to the delicate crunch of almonds on top, every component is essential for making this dish shine.
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage: Brings a zesty, meaty base flavor that defines the dish.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with mushrooms.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced: Contributes an earthy richness and tender bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the casserole with fragrant warmth and a subtle kick.
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice: Acts as the creamy, comforting foundation that soaks up all those amazing flavors.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Provides savory moisture to perfectly cook the rice.
- 1/2 cup light sour cream: Adds luscious creaminess without weighing the dish down.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that ties all the flavors together harmoniously.
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds: Offers a delightful nuttiness and crunch as a final touch.
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley: Brightens the dish with fresh color and flavor.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Italian Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cook the spicy Italian sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it browns. This step only takes about 5 to 6 minutes, but it’s crucial because you want the sausage crisped up just right. Once cooked, remove the sausage and drain off any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Sauté Mushrooms, Onions, and Garlic
In that same skillet, toss in the sliced mushrooms and finely chopped onions. Let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Then add the minced garlic and stir for about a minute until fragrant. This trio builds a beautiful flavor base that complements the spicy sausage perfectly.
Step 3: Cook the Rice
Next, pour the uncooked long grain white rice into the skillet and mix it with the sautéed veggies. Add chicken broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the savory juices and become tender without any fuss.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasoning
When the rice is perfectly cooked, stir in the light sour cream and Italian seasoning until everything is beautifully creamy and fragrant. Once combined, return the cooked sausage to the pan, stirring gently to distribute it throughout the casserole. It’s now ready to be plated and enjoyed!
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the final presentation and add texture, sprinkle sliced almonds over the top for a satisfying crunch. Finish with a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley—not only does it add vibrant green color, but it also imparts a fresh flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans. Their fresh, crisp notes contrast nicely with the creamy, hearty casserole and keep the meal feeling light yet nourishing.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress guests or just shake things up for your own family, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for a personal touch. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan or fresh basil on top, or even add a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for an extra layer of flavor and shine.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. This makes it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners when you don’t feel like cooking from scratch.
Freezing
You can freeze this creamy Italian sausage and rice casserole for up to 2 months. Just transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to restore the creamy texture. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and keep the rice moist and tender.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option that still works well with this recipe. Just be sure to season it with Italian herbs or a bit of red pepper flakes to mimic the sausage’s bold flavor.
Is it possible to make this casserole gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and ensure that the Italian sausage contains no gluten additives. Always double-check ingredient labels to be sure.
Can I substitute sour cream with another dairy product?
If you prefer, plain Greek yogurt or cream cheese can be used as a creamy alternative to sour cream. They will add a slightly different tang but still produce a rich, creamy casserole.
What type of rice works best for this casserole?
Long grain white rice is ideal because it cooks evenly and stays fluffy without becoming mushy. While other types like brown rice can be used, they may require longer cooking times and adjustments in liquid.
How spicy is this casserole?
The heat level mostly depends on the Italian sausage you choose. Using spicy Italian sausage gives the dish a nice kick, but you can opt for mild sausage if you prefer a gentler flavor. You can also tailor the spice by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe is truly a gem in the kitchen—for its unbeatable combination of ease, flavor, and satisfying texture. It’s the kind of dish that welcomes you in after a busy day and comforts you with every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this casserole promises a heartwarming meal that’s both delicious and simple. Give it a try and get ready to add this recipe to your regular rotation—you’ll be so glad you did!
Print
Creamy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 5 to 5.5 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Creamy Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole is a comforting one-pan meal combining spicy Italian sausage, sautéed mushrooms and onions, tender rice cooked in flavorful chicken broth, and a touch of light sour cream for creaminess. Topped with crunchy sliced almonds and fresh parsley, it’s a satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Grains and Liquids
- 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
Dairy and Seasonings
- 1/2 cup light sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Toppings
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage for 5-6 minutes, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and drain any excess grease.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and finely chopped onions. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma.
- Cook the rice: Add the long grain white rice to the skillet along with 3 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer gently for 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth.
- Finish the casserole: Stir the cooked sausage back into the rice mixture. Then, fold in the light sour cream and Italian seasoning until well combined, creating a creamy texture throughout the casserole.
- Serve: Spoon the casserole onto serving plates and top each portion with the sliced almonds and fresh chopped parsley for added crunch and brightness.
Notes
- For a milder dish, use sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy.
- You can substitute light sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the sausage and add extra mushrooms or other vegetables.
- Make sure to check the seasoning at the end and adjust salt if necessary, as some broths can be salty.
- To toast the sliced almonds for extra crunch, dry roast them in a pan over medium heat until golden, then sprinkle on top.
