Sausage and Rice Gratin
Sausage and Rice Gratin is a hearty baked casserole featuring savory sausages and rice bound in a creamy sauce, often topped with cheese and breadcrumbs until golden. It typically includes ingredients like smoked sausage (such as kielbasa or andouille), white rice, onions, garlic, a béchamel or cream-based sauce, and a generous layer of melted cheese. This comforting dish is popular in various forms across European and American home cooking, particularly in regions with strong casserole traditions.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is generally high in carbohydrates from the rice and fat from the sausage and cheese, with a moderate amount of protein. It provides key nutrients like calcium and phosphorus from the dairy, along with B vitamins from the meat and grains. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) can range from 450 to 600 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbs | 40 g |
| Fat | 22 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | 850 mg |
| Potassium | 380 mg |
| Iron | 2.5 mg |
| Calcium | 180 mg |
| Vitamin A | 450 IU |
| Vitamin C | 6 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 1.2 mcg |
| Phosphorus | 220 mg |
| Selenium | 18 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, gratins represent a classic method of transforming simple leftovers into an elegant, one-dish meal, reflecting a resourceful approach to cooking. Nutritionally, while it's a calorie-dense comfort food, it can be adapted with leaner sausages, whole-grain rice, or added vegetables to boost its fiber and micronutrient content.
