Description
This Cheesy Sausage Zucchini Casserole is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal that combines smoky beef sausage, tender jasmine rice, fresh zucchini, and a blend of melted cheeses. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb Smoked Beef Sausage, cut into slices
- ½ cup onion, diced
- ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups shredded zucchini
Grains and Dairy
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (white cheddar preferred)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups chicken stock
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Place the sliced smoked beef sausage in the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onions, red bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet with the sausage. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine flavors.
- Toast the Rice: Stir in the jasmine rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly and absorb the flavors from the skillet.
- Cook the Rice: Pour in the chicken stock and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to the lowest setting and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
- Add Zucchini and Cheese: Remove the lid and fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Fold in the shredded zucchini and both cheeses, stirring until well combined and the cheeses begin to melt.
- Season and Serve: Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm for a hearty and cheesy casserole experience.
Notes
- Use white cheddar for a milder cheese flavor that pairs well with sausage and zucchini.
- For a spicier kick, substitute smoked sausage with spicy or Andouille sausage.
- Ensure the heat is kept low while cooking the rice to prevent burning and promote even cooking.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated; add a splash of chicken stock when reheating if the casserole seems dry.
- To make it gluten-free, confirm the chicken stock is gluten-free and the sausage contains no gluten fillers.
