Description
Wild Rice Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the nutty richness of wild rice with vegetables, creamy sauce, and a touch of cheese. Perfect as a side dish or a vegetarian main course, this casserole is ideal for holiday meals or family dinners, offering a satisfying mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
1 cup wild rice
2 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
2 tablespoons butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup carrots, diced
1 clove garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced (optional)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the wild rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the wild rice, reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 40-45 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the garlic and mushrooms (if using) and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and begin to soften.
- Prepare the casserole mixture: In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables, sour cream, mayonnaise, shredded cheddar cheese (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Assemble the casserole: Transfer the rice mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole, uncovered, for 25-30 minutes, or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish and serve: Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based sour cream and mayonnaise, and skip the cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
- Add Protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage to the casserole. You can also add cooked chickpeas or tofu for a plant-based protein boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a diced jalapeño for a bit of heat.
- Different Veggies: You can substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or zucchini based on your preference.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: undefined
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
