Thick sausage, rich spices and a cheesy topping is something that you can't get in just any 'ole casserole. The Louisiana Casserole is all that and so much more, though. Hearty flavors that really heat up your dinner plate and create a meal that beckons you to the streets of New Orleans - and all in a single baking dish that you just pulled out of the oven.
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Louisiana Casserole
🎥Video Recipe:
📖Printable Recipe:
Louisiana Casserole
Ingredients
- olive oil
- 400 g 14 oz spicy sausage, sliced into pieces
- 1 medium white onion diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 bell pepper diced
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups rice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 ½ teaspoon cajun spices
- 1 can 400 g/14 oz tomato sauce
- ⅔ cup cheese shredded
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet placed over medium heat.
- Saute onions, celery and carrots for 10 minutes. Stir in sliced sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes more.
- Add seasonings, tomato ketchup, sauce and rice, stir well to combine and heat through.
- Transfer rice mixture into a casserole dish, pour boiling hot chicken stock in, stir once more and cover with foil.
- Bake for approximately 50 minutes. Remove the foil and check if the rice is done.
- Top with cheese blend and bake for 10 minutes more.
Video
Nutrition
📋Ingredients
- olive oil
- 400 g (14 oz) spicy sausage, sliced into pieces
- 1 medium white onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 2 cups rice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ cup ketchup
- 1 ½ teaspoon cajun spices
- 1 can (400 g/14 oz) tomato sauce
- ⅔ cup cheese, shredded
🔪How Do I Make It?
Preheat the oven to 190C/375F.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet placed over medium heat.
Saute onions, celery and carrots for 10 minutes. Stir in sliced sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes more.
Add seasonings, tomato ketchup, sauce and rice, stir well to combine and heat through.
Transfer rice mixture into a casserole dish, pour boiling hot chicken stock in, stir once more and cover with foil.
Bake for approximately 50 minutes. Remove the foil and check if the rice is done.
Top with cheese blend and bake for 10 minutes more.
🍽What Do I Serve With This Casserole Dish?
One of the most common questions when making a casserole is what to serve alongside it. The hearty, spicy nature of a Louisiana Casserole pairs beautifully with a range of sides.
Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic Southern side that complements the spicy sausage and rich tomato sauce in the casserole. Its slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture offer a delightful contrast to the savory main dish.
Coleslaw
A refreshing coleslaw can add a crunchy, tangy balance to the warm, comforting flavors of the casserole. The crispness of the cabbage and the zesty dressing can cut through the richness of the dish, providing a perfect harmony of texture and taste.
Green Salad
A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is another excellent option. The fresh greens and acidic dressing can add a refreshing element to your meal, making it feel lighter and more balanced.
⏲️Chef's Tip
Every great dish comes with its own set of secrets, and Louisiana Casserole is no exception. Here are a few chef's tips to elevate your cooking game and make this dish even more memorable.
Spice It Up
Don't be afraid to play around with the spices. While the recipe calls for 1 ½ teaspoons of Cajun spices, you can adjust this to suit your taste. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, reduce the quantity slightly.
Cheese Choices
The type of cheese you use can make a significant difference. While shredded cheddar is a popular choice, you can experiment with other varieties like Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack for an extra kick. The melted cheese on top adds a creamy, gooey texture that's simply irresistible.
Prepping Ahead
One of the beauties of casseroles is their make-ahead potential. You can prepare the rice mixture a day in advance and refrigerate it. When you're ready to bake, just transfer it to a casserole dish, add the chicken stock, and proceed with baking. This can save you valuable time, especially on busy weeknights.
💭Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Sausages?
Absolutely! While spicy sausage adds a unique kick to the dish, you can substitute it with milder sausages if you prefer. Andouille sausage is a traditional choice for its smoky flavor, but Italian sausage or even chorizo can work wonderfully.
Is There a Vegetarian Option?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version of this Louisiana Casserole. Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and carrots. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to keep it entirely plant-based.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the casserole in an oven-safe dish and warm it in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Can I Freeze This Casserole?
Yes, this Louisiana Casserole freezes very well, making it a great option for meal prep. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake in the oven at 350°F until thoroughly heated.
What Variations Can I Try?
There are numerous ways to put your own spin on this casserole. Try adding shrimp or crawfish for an authentic touch of Louisiana seafood. You can also incorporate more vegetables like bell peppers, celery, and okra to enhance the nutritional value and add extra flavor. For a different twist, consider using a blend of brown and wild rice instead of white rice.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Definitely! If you love bold flavors and extra heat, you can spice up this casserole by adding more Cajun seasoning or a few dashes of hot sauce. For an even spicier kick, diced jalapeños or habanero peppers can be mixed into the casserole. Just be sure to taste as you go to achieve your preferred level of heat.
What Do I Do If My Casserole Is Too Dry?
If you find that your casserole is too dry, you can add a splash of chicken stock or even a bit more tomato sauce. Covering the casserole with foil while baking can also help retain moisture. Alternatively, adding a layer of cheese on top can help create a moist, flavorful crust that seals in the casserole's richness.
How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?
For a healthier version of this Louisiana Casserole, consider using lean sausage or a vegetarian sausage alternative. Whole grain rice or quinoa can replace white rice to increase fiber content. Reducing the amount of cheese or choosing a lower-fat variety can also help make the dish lighter. You can also load it up with more vegetables to enhance its nutritional value.
Can I Use a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply prepare all the ingredients as directed, then transfer them to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the sausage is cooked through and the rice is tender. Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a deliciously aromatic dish.
🥘More Easy Casseroles
If you loved this Louisiana Casserole, you're in for a treat! We have a collection of other delicious casserole recipes that are sure to tickle your taste buds.
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