Sausage and Rice Casserole

2lbs. J&L Green Farm bulk sausage

1 cup diced celery

½ cup chopped onion

½ cup green pepper

1 (5-oz) can sliced water chestnuts

1 can mushrooms

3 cups cooked rice

1 ½ envelopes dry chicken noodle soup mix (or just throw in whatever Italian seasonings you enjoy)

2 ½ cups hot water

sliced or slivered almonds

Cook sausage and drain, if needed; save drippings. Saute onions, celery, and green pepper; add sausage, water chestnuts, mushrooms, rice, seasonings and water. Stir all until mixed. Pour into 9x13 pan and top with almonds. Bake uncovered for 1 hour at 350.