This hearty, wholesome Sausage and Green Bean Casserole elevates a classic side into a satisfying weeknight dinner. It also works well as a generous side for potlucks or as a tasty twist on the traditional Thanksgiving favorite.
Why add sausage to your green bean casserole?
Green bean casserole is a beloved classic—comforting green beans in a creamy mushroom base. Adding sausage brings extra protein and bold flavor, transforming the familiar dish into a more substantial meal. Sausage contributes savory notes and spices that complement the creaminess of the soup and the texture of the green beans, making the casserole heartier and more satisfying.
What type of sausage should you use in casseroles?
Sausage comes in many varieties, each bringing different flavors. Choose based on the profile you want—milder sausages let other ingredients shine, while spicier or smoked options give the dish more character. Below are a few good choices and suggestions for seasonings that pair well.
- Sweet Italian Sausage — Typically pork seasoned with fennel, garlic, and oregano. Versatile and mild, it pairs well with Italian and American seasonings; add extra fennel, garlic, onion, or oregano if you want a stronger Italian note.
- Spicy Italian Sausage — Pork with red pepper flakes and aromatics like garlic and paprika. It adds heat and depth and works well with onions, garlic, and bell peppers.
- Breakfast Sausage — Often mildly seasoned and slightly sweet, sometimes with maple. Check ingredient labels for added sugar; unsweetened varieties are neutral and blend easily into many casseroles.
- Chorizo — Spanish or Mexican-style pork with chili, garlic, and smoked paprika. Chorizo lends a distinctive, smoky heat that complements cumin, cilantro, onion, and garlic.
- Andouille — A spicy, smoked sausage common in Cajun and Creole dishes. Andouille offers a smoky, peppery flavor that suits Southern- and Creole-inspired casseroles.
- Specialty Sausages — Other artisanal or regional sausages can work well but may have strong, specific flavors that suit particular recipes.
A Thanksgiving side you can enjoy year-round
This version keeps everything you love about the holiday classic but adds ingredients to make it a complete main-dish casserole. Cooked brown rice and lean breakfast sausage boost the protein and fiber, while sour cream and cream cheese add creaminess. The rice absorbs some of the soup and bean juices, keeping the casserole moist without being heavy. Try this when you crave green bean casserole but want something quicker and more filling than a full holiday spread.
Green Bean Casserole with Sausage
5 from 1 review
This hearty, wholesome casserole is a perfect dinner for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4
Ingredients
- 1/2 onion, cut into 1/4″ slices
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
- 1 lb. bulk breakfast sausage
- 1 lb. frozen French-cut green beans
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup cream cheese
- 10 oz. can reduced-sodium cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups cooked brown rice
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack (or Swiss or provolone)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly spray a 9 x 13″ baking dish with cooking spray.
- Spray a large skillet with cooking spray and heat over medium-high. Add the onion, garlic, and sausage; sauté until the sausage is cooked and the onions are tender. Stir in the green beans (thawed or frozen) and cook until heated through.
- Stir in the sour cream, cream cheese, soup, and cooked brown rice. Remove from heat, transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish, and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the casserole, then top with panko breadcrumbs. Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the breadcrumbs are golden.
Notes
Save time by using frozen, fully cooked brown rice—follow microwave instructions for a quick option.
Use pork sausage for a richer flavor or chicken sausage for a leaner casserole.
- Author: Andi Gleeson
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main
- Cuisine: American
I returned from a trip to Mississippi where I visited family and enjoyed plenty of Southern cooking. While I enjoyed the reunion and all the fried okra, I was eager to get back to my kitchen and routine. This casserole blends Southern comfort with that familiar Thanksgiving flavor in a dish you can enjoy any time of year. I made it a few months ago and have been excited to share it—it’s perfect when you want the nostalgia of green bean casserole without committing to an entire holiday meal. It’s ideal for busy weeknights and makes a filling, vegetable-forward main dish.