Let’s talk comfort food, Minnesota-style. This Wild Rice Hotdish is everything cozy and nostalgic in one bubbling, hearty casserole dish. Packed with nutty wild rice, savory ground beef (or turkey!), tender veggies, and a creamy, herby sauce, it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table—fast. Whether you grew up eating it at a church potluck or it’s your first time diving into the hotdish world, trust me, this one’s a keeper. It’s simple, satisfying, and totally soul-soothing.
Why You’ll Love Wild Rice Hotdish
Hearty and Filling: With wild rice, meat, and veggies all in one dish, this is a full-on meal that satisfies every craving.
True Midwestern Comfort: If casseroles are your love language, this one says “home” in the coziest way possible.
Great for Meal Prep: Make it once, and enjoy leftovers all week. It reheats like a dream.
One-Dish Wonder: Fewer dishes, more comfort. That’s a win-win if you ask me.
Customizable: Easily swap in your favorite protein or veggies. Want it vegetarian? Skip the meat and load up the mushrooms—delish.
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Ingredients in Wild Rice Hotdish
Wild Rice Blend
The star of the show! Earthy, nutty, and slightly chewy—it adds texture and depth you just don’t get with plain white rice.
Ground Beef or Ground Turkey
Adds savory flavor and heartiness. Turkey lightens it up a bit if that’s your thing.
Onion and Celery
The aromatic foundation. These sautéed veggies add flavor and that essential hotdish vibe.
Mushrooms
Optional but so good. Their meaty texture complements the rice beautifully and adds an earthy flavor.
Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup
This is where the creaminess comes in. Use whichever you prefer—or go half-and-half for the best of both worlds.
Sour Cream
Adds a tangy richness and makes the whole dish feel extra cozy and creamy.
Garlic and Seasonings
A simple mix of salt, pepper, and maybe a little thyme or parsley keeps things flavorful without overcomplicating it.
Cheese (Optional)
Some folks like to sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top before baking—cheddar works great if you’re feeling indulgent.
Slivered Almonds (Optional)
For a little crunch on top and a nod to classic Minnesota tradition.
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a large casserole dish so nothing sticks.
Cook the Wild Rice
Cook according to package directions. This usually takes around 45–50 minutes, so get it started first. You can also use pre-cooked wild rice to save time.
Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, cook your ground beef or turkey until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Veggies
Add diced onion, celery, and mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté until softened and fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
Mix It All Together
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, meat and veggie mixture, cream soup, sour cream, garlic, and seasonings. Stir until everything is evenly coated and cozy.
Assemble the Hotdish
Spread the mixture into your greased casserole dish. If using, sprinkle cheese and/or almonds on top for extra texture and flavor.
Bake It
Bake uncovered for 30–40 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the top is golden and bubbling.
Serve and Enjoy
Let it cool for a few minutes (it’ll be hot!), then scoop it up and dig in. It’s just as good the next day—maybe even better.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6–8
Calories per serving: ~350–450 (depending on meat, cream soup, and cheese used)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes (including rice)
Total Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
How to Serve Wild Rice Hotdish
As a Main Dish: This hotdish holds its own. Pair with a side salad or some crusty bread, and you’ve got a complete meal.
With a Side of Pickles: It’s a Midwestern thing. Trust me—it works.
With Cranberry Sauce: A little sweet-tart action on the side is surprisingly good with this savory dish.
Top with Hot Sauce: For a little zing, especially if you went with turkey or added mushrooms.
Serve Family-Style: This dish was made for big spoons and passing around the table.
Additional Tips
Make It Ahead: Assemble the dish the day before and refrigerate. Just bake it when you’re ready to eat.
Freeze It: Yep, this hotdish freezes like a champ. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: A great shortcut that adds tons of flavor and skips the browning step.
Go Veggie: Leave out the meat and add extra mushrooms, lentils, or chickpeas. It’s still super hearty.
Add Extra Herbs: A little thyme or rosemary adds lovely depth—especially in fall and winter.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use white or brown rice instead of wild rice?
A1: You can, but wild rice gives the dish its signature flavor and texture. If subbing, use cooked brown rice for a similar feel.
Q2: What kind of cream soup should I use?
A2: Cream of mushroom is traditional, but cream of chicken or even celery works great. You can also mix two types!
Q3: Can I make this dairy-free?
A3: Yes—use dairy-free sour cream and a dairy-free “cream” soup substitute. The flavor might shift slightly but still delicious.
Q4: Is it okay to use canned mushrooms?
A4: Totally! Fresh gives a better texture, but canned mushrooms work fine in a pinch.
Q5: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A5: Yes, just mix everything together and cook on low for 4–5 hours or until heated through and bubbly.
Q6: What’s the best meat to use?
A6: Ground beef is traditional, but ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage work well too.
Q7: Can I add more veggies?
A7: Absolutely—try carrots, peas, or chopped spinach for an extra veggie boost.
Q8: How do I store leftovers?
A8: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Q9: Can I make it gluten-free?
A9: Yes! Just make sure your cream soup is gluten-free or make a homemade version using gluten-free flour.
Q10: What should I serve with it?
A10: A crisp green salad, some steamed green beans, or just a slice of warm buttered bread are all perfect pairings.
Conclusion
This Wild Rice Hotdish is everything we love about Midwestern cooking—cozy, creamy, and made with love. It’s simple, filling, and endlessly adaptable to whatever’s in your pantry. Whether you’re sharing it with family or just need a solid dinner for a chilly night, this hotdish is a guaranteed win. Scoop it, serve it, and savor every bite!
Print
Wild Rice Hotdish
- Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6–8 1x
Description
This classic Minnesota Wild Rice Hotdish is cozy, creamy, and hearty—packed with nutty wild rice, tender chicken or ground meat, mushrooms, and vegetables, all baked in a savory sauce. It’s the ultimate Midwestern comfort food perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked wild rice
- 4 cups chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons butter or oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken or ground beef (optional)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
- 1/2 cup crushed butter crackers or breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Rinse the wild rice thoroughly, then place it in a pot with chicken broth or water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40–45 minutes, or until the rice is tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid.
- In a large skillet, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the mushrooms and cook for another 5 minutes until they release their juices.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables, cooked chicken or beef (if using), cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread evenly. If desired, sprinkle with shredded cheese and crushed crackers or breadcrumbs.
- Bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until hot and bubbling and the top is golden.
- Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- This dish is flexible—substitute turkey, pork, or leave out the meat entirely for a vegetarian version.
- Make it ahead: prepare the mixture and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.
- Wild rice has a chewy, nutty texture that holds up well in baked dishes and adds a rustic flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Midwestern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: undefined
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: undefined
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: undefined
- Trans Fat: undefined
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: undefined