wild rice casserole recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
wild rice casserole recipe
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best wild rice casserole recipe

I’ve been making wild rice casserole for years, and it’s a recipe that never fails to impress. I first discovered it in a small town in Minnesota, where wild rice is a staple crop.

The dish is a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors, with the nutty taste of wild rice complemented by the sweetness of onions and the richness of butter. When I make it, I like to use a combination of white and brown rice for added texture and depth.

The key to this recipe is cooking the rice just right, so it’s tender but not mushy. It’s a technique that takes some practice, but trust me, it’s worth it.

When I serve this dish to my family, they always ask for seconds (and sometimes even thirds!) It’s a recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering.

And the best part? It’s relatively healthy, too – just be sure to use low-sodium broth and limit the amount of butter you add.

Over the years, I’ve tweaked this recipe to make it my own, and now I’m excited to share it with all of you.

Wild Rice Casserole Recipe

Wild Rice Casserole Recipe

4.7 from 1053 votes

A hearty and flavorful wild rice casserole packed with vegetables and cheese. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 400 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Wild Rice

2 cups wild rice
4 cups vegetable broth

For the Vegetables

1 medium onion
2 cloves garlic
2 medium carrots
2 stalks celery
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup mushrooms

For the Cheese Sauce

2 cups milk
2 tbsp butter
2 tbsp flour
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper

For Topping

1 cup breadcrumbs
1 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat your oven to 375°F.
2Rinse the wild rice thoroughly under cold water.
3In a large pot, combine the wild rice and vegetable broth.
4Bring to a boil over high heat.
5Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Set aside.
6While the rice is cooking, finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the carrots and celery.
7Slice the mushrooms.
8In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat.
9Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
10Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
11Add the peas and mushrooms.
12Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until the mushrooms are browned and the peas are heated through.
13Remove from heat and set aside.
14In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
15Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
16Cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly.
17Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
18Cook for 3-5 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
19Stir in the cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
20In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, vegetable mixture, and cheese sauce.
21Stir until well combined.
22Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish.
23In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs and 1 tbsp of olive oil.
24Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
25Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly around the edges.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Baking dish
Mixing bowl

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 400 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 18g

📝Notes

Tips: For added protein, you can mix in cooked chicken or turkey. For a vegetarian option, add cooked lentils.

Watch Video Of How Wild Rice Casserole Recipe Works

This wild rice casserole recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want a comforting meal on a weeknight. The best part?

It’s easy to make ahead of time and reheats beautifully. Simply thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the refrigerator or reheat refrigerated leftovers at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes until hot throughout.

You can also serve this dish at room temperature or chilled – just be sure to adjust your serving portion sizes accordingly.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Wild Rice Casserole

What type of rice should I use in this recipe?

You can use either white or brown rice, but I prefer a combination of both for added texture and depth.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight – just be sure to let it come to room temperature before baking.

How do I prevent the bottom layer from burning?

To prevent the bottom layer from burning, make sure your oven is at the right temperature (350°F) and use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Can I substitute other types of grain for wild rice?

While wild rice is unique in its flavor and texture, you can try substituting other types of grain like quinoa or farro – just be aware that they may change the flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as long as you use low-sodium broth and skip the bacon (if using).

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts