Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wild Rice Casserole offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors. The wild rice provides a slightly chewy, nutty base, while the creamy sauce and sautéed vegetables add richness and depth. It’s a perfect dish for anyone looking for a comforting meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent. Plus, it’s easy to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or protein, making it a versatile recipe that fits any dietary preference. The leftovers also reheat beautifully, making it a great meal to prep ahead of time.

Ingredients

1 cup wild rice, rinsed
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup celery, diced
1/2 cup carrots, diced
1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup milk (or heavy cream for a richer version)
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried rosemary
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
In a medium saucepan, cook the wild rice according to the package instructions. Typically, this involves simmering the rice in 2 cups of water for about 45-50 minutes until tender and the water is absorbed. Once done, set aside.
While the rice is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, mushrooms, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken or vegetable broth, milk, thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Once the vegetables are softened, pour the broth mixture into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine the cooked wild rice with the vegetable and broth mixture in the skillet, stirring to combine. If desired, add the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and well incorporated.
Pour the rice and vegetable mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with breadcrumbs and additional cheese if desired.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and the casserole is heated through.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1 hour (including rice cooking time)
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: To make this casserole a complete meal, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage. Simply chop the protein into bite-sized pieces and mix it in with the rice and vegetables.
Vegetarian Version: This recipe is already vegetarian-friendly, but you can make it vegan by substituting the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk and vegan butter.
Cheese-Free Option: Skip the cheese if you prefer a dairy-free version or use a dairy-free cheese substitute for a similar creamy texture.
Extra Veggies: Feel free to add additional vegetables like peas, spinach, or bell peppers to suit your taste.
Nuts and Dried Fruit: Add some toasted pecans, walnuts, or cranberries for a burst of flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Wild Rice Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power.

FAQs

Can I use regular rice instead of wild rice?

While wild rice has a unique texture and flavor, you can substitute it with brown rice or white rice if necessary. Keep in mind that the cooking time and texture will vary.

Can I make Wild Rice Casserole ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the fridge and bake as directed.

Can I freeze Wild Rice Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use different cheeses, such as cheddar, Gruyère, or a blend of Italian cheeses. If you prefer a creamier texture, you could even stir in some cream cheese.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip the breadcrumbs altogether, this casserole can be made gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add some heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño to the vegetables while sautéing.

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh ones. Just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture from the vegetables before using them in the casserole.

Can I substitute cream for the milk?

Yes, you can use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, creamier casserole. You can also use half-and-half for a balance between milk and cream.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is done when it’s bubbly around the edges and the top is golden brown. If you’re unsure, you can check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) when fully heated through.

Can I add herbs to the casserole?

Absolutely! Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or sage can be added to the dish for extra flavor. You can mix them into the casserole before baking or sprinkle them on top as a garnish.

Conclusion

Wild Rice Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the earthy flavor of wild rice with creamy sauce and savory vegetables. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences. Whether you serve it as a side dish or make it a main course, Wild Rice Casserole is sure to be a hit with family and friends. With its hearty, wholesome ingredients, it’s the perfect addition to any meal.

Wild Rice Casserole