Mushroom and Sausage Rice Pilaf

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 pound Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped celery
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, onion, celery, and mushrooms and cook until the sausage is lightly browned and the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour, salt, and pepper and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Gradually add the milk and cook, stirring constantly, until the mixture is thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese.
4. Stir the cheese sauce into the rice mixture and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot.

Interesting Facts

• Rice Pilaf is a classic side dish that is popular in many cultures.
• Adding mushrooms and sausage to the rice pilaf makes it a delicious and hearty main course.
• The creamy sauce and Parmesan cheese add a delicious flavor to the dish.