Key Takeaway
- Chicken sausage casserole is simple to prepare.
- It can be customized with different ingredients.
- This dish is healthy and filling.
What is Chicken Sausage Casserole?
Chicken sausage casserole is a warm, comforting dish that brings everyone together at dinnertime. This meal features juicy chicken sausage baked right into the casserole, making it extra flavorful. The chicken sausage provides a good amount of protein to help you feel satisfied.To add even more nutrition, the casserole contains diced bell peppers, onions, and sometimes mushrooms or other veggies(1). The burst of color from the red and green peppers makes it pleasing to the eye. Whole grains like brown rice or quinoa are often mixed in too, adding fiber to keep you full.When it comes to seasoning, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper add lots of flavor without much effort. If you like a little kick, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled on top. The casserole is easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can pop it in the oven after a busy day.Chicken sausage casserole goes great with a fresh side salad or some roasted broccoli. The blend of flavors and textures is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Kids will gobble up this hearty meal, and even picky eaters will go back for seconds. This versatile casserole works for family dinners, potlucks, or to have tasty leftovers to enjoy all week long.
How to Make Chicken Sausage Casserole
Credits: Erin Alvarez.
Cooking up a yummy chicken sausage casserole is a cinch with just a handful of ingredients. Get ready to wow your tastebuds!
Get Crackin’ on the Chicken Sausage
First up, grab some chicken sausage and slice it into little coins. This makes sure every bite cooks up evenly. Toss the sliced sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Listen to it sizzle and pop as it browns for 5-7 minutes. Flip and stir it around so each piece gets a turn to caramelize. Mmm, can you smell that savory sausagey goodness wafting from the kitchen? It’s making everyone hungry for more!
Rally the Veggie Reinforcements
Now that the sausage is nicely browned, bring in the vegetables! Dice up some onions and bell peppers and add them to the skillet. Let them hang with the sausage for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften up. The sweet onions and crisp peppers make a dynamic duo, adding tons of flavor and texture. This veggie-packed sausage mixture smells absolutely mouthwatering!
Blend it All Together
At this point, scoop the cooked sausage and veggies into a large bowl. Mix in some cooked rice or quinoa to soak up all the deliciousness. Then pour in the secret sauce – a zesty combo of tomato puree and chicken broth. Give everything a good stir until it’s combined. Just look at all those colors mingling together! You can tell this casserole is going to taste as scrumptious as it looks.
Bake Until Bubbling
Now pour the mixture into a baking dish and sprinkle cheese on top – an ooey, gooey finishing touch! Pop it in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly. The cheese transforms into a perfectly golden brown crust. Let it cool a smidge before digging in. This chicken sausage casserole is music to your mouth – enjoy!
Creative Way to Enjoy Chicken Sausage Casserole
Chicken sausage casserole is the ultimate comfort food that can be customized in so many tasty ways. The casserole format allows cooks to get creative with flavors and ingredients to suit any preference.
For Fans of Rich, Creamy Flavors
People who love rich, creamy casseroles will enjoy making a version with cream of mushroom or chicken soup as the base. Stirring in sour cream or cream cheese before baking makes it extra decadent. Gruyere or cheddar cheese sprinkled on top adds delicious flavor. This style of chicken sausage casserole is soothing and indulgent.
For Those Who Crave Spice
Spice lovers can give their chicken sausage casserole kick with bold seasonings like cayenne, chili powder, cumin or paprika. Adding hot peppers like jalapenos or chipotles brings even more heat. Topping with freshly chopped cilantro or a dollop of salsa makes it fresh and lively. This spicy take is full of big, bold flavors.
For Seekers of Savory Herbs and Veggies
Using fresh herbs and vegetables makes chicken sausage casserole feel light and healthy. Mushrooms, spinach, broccoli or tomatoes add great texture and nutrients. Rosemary, basil, oregano and thyme infuse it with aromatic flavor. A sprinkling of feta or parmesan adds a tasty finishing touch. This veggie-packed version is delicious and good for you.With so many ways to vary the ingredients, chicken sausage casserole is a versatile dinner option. Cooks can customize it to satisfy any craving or dietary need. From rich and creamy to spicy and bold, it’s a comfort food with worldwide flair.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Sausage Casserole
Chicken sausage casserole is a nutritious and scrumptious meal for the whole family. The casserole offers a hearty blend of protein, vitamins, and minerals to fuel busy bodies.Chicken sausage packs a protein punch. The lean meat helps build strong muscles. Protein also gives lasting energy to power through the day. Compared to pork sausage, chicken sausage contains less fat too. This makes it a slimmer choice for waist-watchers.Veggies like bell peppers, spinach, and carrots bulk up the casserole’s nutritional profile. Peppers offer Vitamin C to shore up the immune system. Spinach provides iron to keep energy humming. Carrots add beta carotene for healthy eyes and skin.With its combo of lean protein, veggie power, and savory flavor, chicken sausage casserole satisfies foodies and nutrition-nuts alike. The meal offers a feel-good way to get important nutrients. Adults, kids, and seniors can all enjoy the tasty benefits. Chicken sausage casserole provides a smart recipe to promote wellness for the whole household.
Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Sausage Casserole
Chicken sausage casserole is so yummy and comforting. But pairing it with delicious side dishes can take the meal to the next level! Here are some tasty ideas:
- Roasted veggies are a fantastic side. The high heat caramelizes their natural sugars and brings out amazing flavor. Try carrots, Brussels sprouts, zucchini or cauliflower. Toss with olive oil, salt and pepper and roast at 400F until browned and tender. The medley of colors looks so pretty next to the casserole.
- A fresh green salad with leafy greens, tomatoes and cucumbers adds a nice, light contrast to the heavy casserole. Drizzle with a lemony vinaigrette so it’s bright and refreshing.
- Creamy mashed potatoes are a cozy classic(2). Boil potatoes until soft, then mash them with butter, milk and garlic. The smooth, rich potatoes complement the hearty sausage casserole wonderfully. Comfort food heaven!
- Baked sweet potatoes are a delicious and nutritious side. Their natural sweetness balances the savory flavors of the casserole. Bake them whole or cut into wedges, then sprinkle with cinnamon. Their vibrant orange color looks so cheerful on the plate.
With sides like these, the chicken sausage casserole goes from simple to spectacular. Not only do they taste amazing, but they make the meal more complete and satisfying. This hearty fare is sure to please!
Preparing Chicken Sausage Casserole Ahead of Time
Planning meals in advance can be a real time saver during busy weeks. One great make-ahead option is chicken sausage casserole(3). With just a few simple steps, this hearty and comforting dish can be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed whenever needed.First, cook the casserole according to your favorite recipe, using fresh ingredients for maximum flavor. Once cooked, allow the casserole to cool for about 30 minutes before storing it.Next, cover the cooled casserole tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Place in the refrigerator where it will keep for several days.When ready to eat, preheat the oven to 350°F and remove the covering from the casserole. Bake for 20-30 minutes until heated through.Following this easy method ensures a healthy homemade meal is always ready to be enjoyed, no matter how hectic the week becomes. Make-ahead casseroles like chicken sausage are a handy solution for busy home cooks looking to stay on top of meal planning.
Tips for the Best Chicken Sausage Casserole
Making a delicious chicken sausage casserole is easy when you follow a few simple tips. Here are some ideas to create a casserole that will have everyone going back for seconds:
- Use a variety of fresh vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and peppers. The different colors and textures make the casserole more appealing. Fresh veggies also add great flavor.
- Season the casserole well. Salt, pepper, garlic powder, oregano, basil – all help make the flavors pop. Don’t be shy with the spices!
- Try brown rice or whole wheat pasta instead of white rice or noodles. The nutty, earthy taste of whole grains complements the chicken sausage perfectly.
- Mix in some cheese like cheddar or parmesan for a creamy, rich casserole. The cheese also helps bind the ingredients together.
- Top with crispy fried onions or crushed potato chips before baking for a fun crunch.
- Finish with a garnish of chopped parsley or green onions. This adds a burst of color and freshness.
With fresh ingredients, bold seasoning, nutritious grains, gooey cheese, and crispy toppings, you can make a chicken sausage casserole the whole family will request again and again.
FAQ
How long should I cook this Chicken Sausage Casserole on the stove?
For this Chicken Sausage Casserole, you’ll want to cook it over medium-high heat. Start by heating a large skillet with some cooking spray or oil. Then add the sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Next, add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and any other veggies you want and sauté for 3-5 minutes until softened. Finally, add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, chicken stock, and seasonings. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the flavors meld together.
Can I make this Chicken Sausage Casserole in the slow cooker or crock pot?
Absolutely! This Chicken Sausage Casserole is perfect for the slow cooker or crock pot. Just brown the sausage and veggies on the stove first. Then add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The long, slow cooking time in the crock pot allows all the flavors to really develop. You can even use pre-cooked or smoked sausage to make it even easier.
How do I make this Chicken Sausage Casserole dairy-free and gluten-free?
To make this Chicken Sausage Casserole dairy-free, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free shredded cheese. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread crumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers on top instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also easily swap the regular rice for wild rice or long grain rice. And be sure to use gluten-free chicken stock. With a few simple tweaks, you can make this a totally dairy-free and gluten-free main dish.
What are some healthy ingredient substitutions for this Chicken Sausage Casserole?
There are lots of ways to make this Chicken Sausage Casserole healthier. Instead of regular sausage, use a low-fat, low-sodium chicken sausage or smoked turkey sausage. Swap the white rice for brown rice, wild rice, or even cauliflower rice for added fiber and nutrients. You can also add in extra veggies like diced sweet potato, mushrooms, or spinach. And instead of high-fat cheese, use a small amount of parmesan or try a dairy-free cheese. By making a few simple swaps, you can turn this into a really delicious and nutritious main dish.
How long does it take to prep and cook this Chicken Sausage Casserole?
This Chicken Sausage Casserole is pretty quick and easy to make. The total time, from start to finish, is around 1 hour. The prep time is about 15-20 minutes – that’s chopping the veggies, cooking the sausage, and getting everything ready to assemble. Then the cook time in the oven is 35-40 minutes. So with just about an hour of total work, you can have this comforting and flavorful main dish on the table. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Conclusion
Chicken sausage casserole is a cozy dish that’s easy to make and customize. It features delicious chicken sausage, healthy vegetables, and grains, creating a full meal. This casserole shines on busy weeknights or at family gatherings, pleasing everyone. With various ingredients, each person can enjoy their preferred twist on this comfort food. Get ready to whip up a chicken sausage casserole that everyone will love!
References
- https://www.deliciousmagazine.co.uk/recipes/chicken-sausage-casserole/
- https://thealmondeater.com/cheesy-potato-chicken-sausage-casserole/
- https://pocketchangegourmet.com/make-ahead-sausage-casserole/
Related Articles
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-and-quinoa-casserole/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/chicken-sausage-breakfast-casserole/
- https://milkwoodrestaurant.com/does-chicken-sausage-have-protein/
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I’m Mary R. Q. , a seasoned professional chef dedicated to elevating home cooking experiences. Through my expertise in the culinary arts, I provide practical cooking tips and insightful reviews of kitchen utensils on my blog, milkwoodrestaurant.com. As a passionate advocate for transforming everyday meals into extraordinary culinary adventures, I aim to empower home cooks with the knowledge and tools they need to create delicious and memorable dishes. I’m also an author of the book “1,001 Kitchen Tips & Tricks: Helpful Hints for Cooking, Baking, and Cleaning (1,001 Tips & Tricks)” which is sold on Amazon. Join me on a flavorful journey as we explore the art of cooking and the essential tools that make it a joy.
