Get ready to transform your dinner routine with this mouthwatering Sausage and Pepper Rice Gratin – a dish that combines the smoky richness of sausages, the sweet crunch of bell peppers, and the creamy comfort of a perfectly baked rice casserole. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures in one irresistible meal. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting a casual dinner party, this gratin promises to be the star of the table.
Ingredients
- Rice: 250g (8.8 oz / 1¼ cups) long grain or basmati rice
- Sausages: 3-4 (smoked, Toulouse, or merguez)
- Red Bell Pepper: 1, sliced
- Yellow or Green Bell Pepper: 1, sliced
- Onion: 1 medium, sliced
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Cream: 200ml (6.8 fl oz) crème fraîche or single cream
- Cheese: 100g (3.5 oz) grated Emmental, Gruyère, or mozzarella
- Tomato Paste: 1 tablespoon (or 1 fresh tomato, peeled and chopped)
- Seasonings: 1 tsp paprika or herbes de Provence
- Olive Oil, Salt, and Pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice
- Cook rice in a saucepan of boiling salted water
- Drain and set aside
2. Prepare Vegetables and Sausages
- Slice sausages into rounds
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet
- Sauté sliced onion and minced garlic
- Add bell pepper strips or dice
- Cook for 8-10 minutes until softened
- Add sausage slices
- Brown sausages lightly
- Stir in tomato paste and spices
- Season with salt and pepper
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes
3. Assemble the Gratin
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Combine cooked rice with sausage and pepper mixture
- Mix in cream
- Add half the grated cheese
- Adjust seasoning to taste
- Transfer to a lightly oiled gratin dish
- Sprinkle remaining cheese on top
4. Bake to Perfection
- Bake for 15-20 minutes
- Cook until cheese is golden and bubbly
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving
Nutritional Information
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Highlights (per serving)
- High in protein from sausages
- Good source of vegetable nutrients
- Moderate carbohydrates
- Rich in flavor
Why This Recipe is a Healthy Choice
While indulgent, this Sausage and Pepper Rice Gratin offers nutritional benefits. Bell peppers provide a significant dose of vitamin C and antioxidants. The rice offers complex carbohydrates, while the sausages bring protein. By using lean sausages and controlling portion sizes, you can enjoy a balanced meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Pro Tip
For a lighter version, use turkey or chicken sausages and swap full-fat cream with a lower-fat alternative like Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot, directly from the oven
- Pair with a crisp green salad
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives
- Great as a main course or hearty side dish
A delicious blend of comfort and flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!