Jailhouse Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Food Casserole Recipe
Introduction to Jailhouse Rice
Jailhouse Rice is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this casserole is not only delicious but also easy to make! It combines the richness of beef and sausage with fluffy rice, all enveloped in a creamy sauce. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy meal, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
A Personal Story Behind My Jailhouse Rice Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed hearty casseroles, especially during chilly evenings. Jailhouse Rice became a staple at our gatherings, and I remember the warmth and laughter shared around the dinner table while savoring this comforting dish. It holds a special place in my heart as a reminder of home, family, and the joy of cooking together.
What Makes This Jailhouse Rice Recipe Special?
What sets this Jailhouse Rice recipe apart is its unique blend of flavors and textures. The combination of ground beef and sausage gives it a savory depth that is complemented by the creamy celery soup and tender rice. Additionally, it’s a one-dish meal, making cleanup a breeze! This recipe is not only comforting but also versatile; you can add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own.
The Full Jailhouse Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large white onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans chicken broth
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans cream of celery soup
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Brown the meat until halfway cooked, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds flavor, so don’t skip it!
- Add the diced onion and celery to the skillet. Continue cooking until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender, about another 5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of celery soup and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, add the rice, and stir until well combined. This will help the rice absorb all the delicious flavors!
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover it tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes. Make sure it’s covered to keep the moisture in.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking and absorb any remaining liquid. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
- Enjoy this comforting beef and rice casserole with your family and friends!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Jailhouse Rice
Jailhouse Rice is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it by adding toppings such as grated cheese before baking for an extra layer of flavor. For a touch of freshness, serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables. If you’d like to make it vegetarian, consider substituting the meat with beans and adding more vegetables. You can also spice it up with some hot sauce or your favorite seasonings to suit your taste!
Frequently Asked Questions About Jailhouse Rice
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving again.
Can I freeze Jailhouse Rice?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just make sure it’s in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What can I serve with Jailhouse Rice?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 8
Jailhouse Rice
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking dish To bake the casserole.
- Large Skillet For browning the meat.
- Medium Bowl To mix the soup and broth.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 large white onion, diced
- 2 ribs celery, diced
- 2 cans chicken broth (14.5 oz each)
- 2 cans cream of celery soup (10.5 oz each)
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, season the beef with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Brown the meat until halfway cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced onion and celery to the skillet. Continue cooking until the meat is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender, about another 5 minutes.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cream of celery soup and chicken broth until smooth. Pour this mixture into the skillet, add the rice, and stir until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover it tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 15 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
- Enjoy this comforting beef and rice casserole with your family and friends!