Cheesy Sausage Comfort Casserole

Cheesy Sausage Comfort Casserole is the ultimate answer for chilly nights or any time you need a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal. All the best flavors of a classic family casserole come together with layers of smoked sausage, creamy sauce, tender vegetables, and plenty of melty cheese. Even the pickiest eaters in our house ask for seconds

I first made this on a rainy Tuesday night when I needed to clear out the fridge I tossed everything together and my family called it the best casserole they have ever had

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage links: Choose a high-quality smoked sausage for rich flavor Slice them evenly so each bite gets a bit of meat
• Cooked white rice: Great use for leftover rice Fluffy and absorbs the sauce beautifully
• Cream of mushroom soup: This is your creamy base Look for low-sodium options if desired
• Milk: Thins out the soup and helps make the sauce extra creamy Use whole milk for best results
• White onion: Adds gentle sweetness Pick a firm onion without blemishes
• Celery: Gives a fresh crunch Select stalks that are crisp and vibrant green
• Cooked broccoli: Use heads that are deep green with tightly closed buds Steam until just tender so they hold up in the bake
• Shredded medium cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly throughout Go for block cheese and shred it yourself for the best melt
• Seasoned salt: Brings savory depth Make sure you use your favorite blend
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste Freshly ground black pepper is ideal
• Olive oil: Helps brown the sausage and sauté vegetables Choose extra virgin for flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit Make sure to grease a 9 by 13 inch casserole dish so nothing sticks

Brown the Sausage:

Add olive oil to a large skillet and warm over medium heat Place sliced sausage into the pan Let it cook for about five minutes stirring occasionally until it is browned on all sides This step builds a rich meaty flavor for the whole casserole

Sauté the Vegetables:

Toss in chopped onion and celery Cook them together with the sausage for another three to four minutes Stir frequently until the onion turns translucent and the celery softens These aromatic veggies create a foundation for the dish

Mix the Sauce:

Take a large mixing bowl Pour in cooked rice the can of cream of mushroom soup and milk Stir thoroughly so the rice is well coated and everything blends together

Combine Everything:

Add the sausage and vegetable mixture to the bowl Toss in the cooked broccoli most of the cheese seasoned salt plus a bit of salt and pepper Use a big spoon to gently combine everything making sure the broccoli stays in good chunks

Assemble and Top:

Scoop the mixture into your greased casserole dish Spread it evenly Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheese over the top for that extra golden crust

Bake:

Put your casserole dish on the middle rack Bake for twenty five to thirty minutes You want it bubbling hot and the cheese melted to a gorgeous golden brown

Rest and Serve:

Once baked let it cool for about five minutes before scooping out portions This helps it set and makes serving neater

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Storage Tips

Once cooled cover leftovers tightly and store in the fridge for up to four days You can also freeze individual portions Wrap them well and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating covered in the oven or microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

Try turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter twist Brown rice or brown basmati works well for extra fiber And if broccoli is not your favorite swap for cauliflower or mixed vegetables from the freezer section

Serving Suggestions

This casserole pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or garlic toast Serve alongside roasted carrots or crisp pickles for extra color and crunch

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Cultural Context

Casseroles are a staple of American comfort food traditions especially in the Midwest where potlucks and family gatherings mean dishes just like this Everyone has their own version but sausage and cheese together always win hearts

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use different sausage types?

Yes, you can substitute smoked sausage with turkey sausage or chicken sausage, adjusting the cooking time if needed.

→ Is fresh or frozen broccoli better?

Both work well. Frozen broccoli saves prep time, while fresh broccoli adds more texture and vibrant color.

→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Absolutely. You can assemble the casserole in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best results.

→ What cheese works best?

Medium cheddar is classic, but you can try Monterey Jack or a cheese blend for a different flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely, then cover and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.