Hearty Sausage and Bean Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Hearty comfort flows through this rustic sausage and bean casserole that promises warmth on chilly nights.

Savory aromas will soon drift through kitchen spaces, beckoning hungry souls.

Chunky ingredients blend perfectly in a single dish that speaks of home-cooked satisfaction.

Southern cooking traditions shine brightly in this simple yet robust meal.

Protein-packed beans and robust sausage create a filling combination that satisfies deep hunger.

Weeknight dinners just became more delicious with minimal preparation and maximum flavor.

What Sets This Sausage & Bean Casserole Apart

• Customize with Ease: The recipe offers flexible ingredients that can be swapped or adjusted based on personal preferences, making it perfect for adapting to what's in your pantry.
• Quick Family Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with bold spices and cheesy goodness, this dish appeals to both kids and adults, creating a satisfying meal that brings everyone together around the table.
• Meal Prep Magic: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making this casserole an excellent option for busy weeknights or preparing ahead for quick lunches and dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients That Make It Hearty

• Sausage: Provides a hearty and flavorful protein base for the casserole.
• Rice: Serves as the foundational starch that adds substance to the dish.
• Black Beans: Offers additional protein and creates a robust texture.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Adds rich, tangy flavor and creates a creamy, melted topping.

• Salsa, Diced Tomatoes: Contribute zesty moisture and bright tomato flavor.
• Cumin, Chili Powder: Bring warm, spicy depth to the overall taste profile.

• Fresh Cilantro: Provides a fresh, herbal finish and vibrant green color to the casserole.

Walkthrough for a One-Pot Wonder

Step 1: Prepare Fluffy Rice

Cook rice following the package guidelines, ensuring each grain is perfectly tender and separated.

Step 2: Sizzle Savory Sausage

Warm pre-cooked sausage in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s thoroughly heated and releasing its delicious aroma.

Step 3: Spice Up the Sausage

Sprinkle cumin and chili powder over the sausage, stirring to distribute the zesty seasonings evenly.

Step 4: Build Flavorful Sauce

• Salsa
• Black beans
• Diced tomatoes

Simmer until the mixture is heated through and the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Preheat Cooking Chamber

Set the oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for the final baking stage.

Step 6: Mix Casserole Ingredients

• Cooked rice
• Sausage mixture
• Sharp cheddar cheese

Stir until all ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 7: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the mixed ingredients into a greased casserole dish, spreading evenly.

Step 8: Add Cheese Topping

Sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.

Step 9: Bake to Perfection

Slide the casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbly blanket.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Scatter fresh cilantro over the top for a bright, herbal finish before bringing the casserole to the table.

Simple Tips That Add Big Flavor

• Toast rice in a bit of butter before cooking to enhance its nutty taste and aroma.
• Adjust chili powder and cumin quantities to match your personal heat preference, from mild to spicy.
• Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes after baking to allow cheese to set and become extra creamy.
• Prepare the entire casserole in advance and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve for a convenient meal.
• Replace sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein alternative.

Tasty Add-Ons & Easy Adjustments

• Vegetarian Bean Bonanza: Replace sausage with plant-based protein crumbles or diced firm tofu, keeping all other ingredients the same for a meat-free version.
• Spicy Southwest Upgrade: Add jalapeños, increase chili powder, and use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick of heat and flavor.
• Gluten-Free Comfort Casserole: Swap regular rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa to make the dish gluten-free and lower in carbohydrates.
• Mediterranean Fusion Flair: Substitute black beans with chickpeas, use oregano instead of cumin, and top with feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.

Serving Ideas for Any Occasion

• Fiesta Flavor Boost: Top this hearty casserole with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped green onions for extra zesty freshness.
• Southwestern Side Kick: Serve alongside crispy tortilla chips or warm cornbread to soak up the delicious saucy goodness.
• Fresh and Bright Finish: Add a quick avocado salsa or chopped fresh salsa on top to bring a cool, bright contrast to the warm, cheesy casserole.
• Protein Power-Up: Pair with a light mixed green salad to balance the rich, cheesy sausage and bean dish for a complete meal.

Keeping It Fresh After the First Meal

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, keeping the casserole cool and fresh in the refrigerator.
• Wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty aluminum foil, preserving the meal for up to 2-3 months with minimal flavor loss.
• Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until thoroughly warm, stirring occasionally.
• Preheat oven to 350F, place casserole in a baking dish, cover with foil to prevent drying, and warm for 15-20 minutes, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

FAQs

• Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute with any pre-cooked sausage like chicken, turkey, or spicy chorizo to match your taste preferences.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The heat level depends on your salsa choice. Use mild salsa for less spice or hot salsa if you want more kick.

• Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add 5-10 extra minutes to the baking time.

• How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free rice and verify that your sausage and salsa are gluten-free to ensure the entire dish meets dietary requirements.

Loaded Sausage and Bean Casserole Recipe

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4.7 from 21 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty sausage and bean casserole brings rustic comfort straight from countryside kitchens. Savory sausages nestled with creamy beans create a warming meal that satisfies hunger and warms souls with each delicious spoonful.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) pre-cooked sausage
• 1 (15 ounces/425 grams) can of black beans, drained and rinsed

Starch and Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup (240 milliliters) brown rice
• 1 (15 ounces/425 grams) can of diced tomatoes with green chiles

Seasoning and Topping Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) salsa
• 2 cups (480 grams) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

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Instructions

1. Prepare the rice according to package directions until fluffy and tender.
2. Heat the pre-cooked sausage in a large skillet over medium temperature, warming thoroughly.
3. Sprinkle cumin and chili powder over the sausage, mixing to distribute the spices evenly.
4. Pour salsa into the skillet, then add black beans and diced tomatoes, simmering until everything is heated through and flavors meld.
5. Warm the oven to 375F (190C), ensuring proper temperature for baking.
6. Combine the cooked rice, spiced sausage mixture, and sharp cheddar cheese in a spacious mixing bowl, folding gently to distribute ingredients.
7. Transfer the combined mixture into a prepared, greased casserole dish, spreading evenly.
8. Generously top the casserole with remaining cheddar cheese, creating a complete cheese layer.
9. Slide the casserole into the preheated oven, baking for 20-25 minutes until cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling crust.
10. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh, chopped cilantro for a vibrant finishing touch before serving.

Notes

• Pick pre-cooked sausage varieties like chicken or turkey for a leaner protein option.
• Swap white rice with brown rice or quinoa to boost nutritional value and fiber content.
• Adjust spice levels by modifying chili powder and cumin amounts to suit personal heat preferences.
• Ensure complete heating of beans and sausage to maintain food safety and enhance flavor development.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 570 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 870 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 43 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Protein: 32 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg