I love making Sausage and Rice Skillet because it’s easy and comforting. This hearty, healthy dish is perfect for busy days when I don’t have much time to cook. The smoky sausage, tender rice, and flavorful seasonings make it one of my go-to meals.

It’s been a while since I last made this dish, but now I prepare it at least once a week because it’s so simple and delicious. Thanks to its quick cooking time and one-pan preparation, it has become one of my favorite recipes. I love how everything blends in the skillet, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.

When I make this recipe, I like to experiment with different ingredients. Sometimes I add extra vegetables, like bell peppers and zucchini, or I use a spicy sausage for a bit of heat. Every time, it turns out amazing!

If you like one-pan meals that are flavorful, filling, and easy to prepare, this recipe is perfect for you. The result is just Wow! You’ll love it for sure, and for a perfect dinner, this dish never fails.

I prefer to enjoy it with a side of garlic bread and a fresh salad. Some grated cheese on top makes it even better. This recipe is super easy to make, and the flavors always blend perfectly.

What Makes This Sausage and Rice Skillet Special?

This Sausage and Rice Skillet is special because it’s a one-pan meal that is quick, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s made with simple ingredients but tastes like a dish that took hours to prepare. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, as leftovers taste just as good the next day.

Perfect For:

• Busy Weeknights: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for quick meals.
• Hearty and Filling Meals: Packed with protein, rice, and veggies, this dish is satisfying and delicious.
• Meal Prep: Cook once and enjoy leftovers for the next few days.
• Versatile Cooking: You can customize it with different sausages, vegetables, and seasonings.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 ounces (340g) smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Lid for the skillet

How to make Sausage And Rice Skillet

Step 1:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2:

In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3:

Stir in uncooked rice, paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the rice slightly.

Step 4:

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.

Step 5:

Return the sausage to the skillet, along with the frozen peas or corn. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.

Step 6:

Remove from heat. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and let it melt. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot!

Helpful Tips

• Smoked sausage works best for this dish because it adds extra flavor. If you prefer a spicier version, use hot sausage or chorizo. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
• Before adding the broth, sauté the rice in the skillet for a minute or two to enhance its nutty taste. This extra step helps to create a deeper flavor profile.
• Even though sausage is flavorful, adding spices like paprika, oregano, and garlic powder makes the dish even better. Adjust the seasoning to your taste and consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.
• Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer so it soaks up all the broth and seasonings. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Cooking it low and slow results in the best texture.
• You can add zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or any other vegetables to make the meal even healthier. Vegetables not only add color but also improve the overall taste and texture of the dish.
• Cooking rice in broth gives it a richer and more flavorful taste. If you want an extra kick, try using vegetable broth or beef broth for an added depth of flavor.

Optional Ingredients

• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a spicy kick for those who like heat. A small pinch can elevate the flavor significantly.
• Cheese – A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or parmesan enhances the dish’s richness. It adds a creamy texture when melted.
• Tomato Paste – Adds depth to the sauce and makes it slightly tangy. Just a small amount gives the dish a stronger, richer base.
• Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or basil gives a fresh finish. Herbs add brightness and balance out the richness of the sausage.
• Lemon Juice – A squeeze of lemon brightens up the flavors. It provides a nice contrast to the savory sausage and rice.
• Beans – Black beans or kidney beans add extra protein and texture. They help make the dish even more filling and nutritious.

What to Pair with Sausage and Rice Skillet?

One of the best ways to serve Sausage and Rice Skillet is with a side of crusty garlic bread. The bread soaks up all the delicious juices from the dish, making every bite even more flavorful.

A fresh garden salad pairs well with this meal, adding a light and refreshing contrast to the hearty rice and sausage. A mix of lettuce, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes works beautifully.

For a comforting meal, serve this dish with a side of roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or asparagus. The roasted flavors complement the smoky sausage.

If you love cheesy dishes, you can top the skillet with shredded cheese and broil it for a few minutes until bubbly. This adds an extra layer of richness to the dish.

Variations and Substitutions

Spicy Sausage and Rice Skillet: Use spicy sausage and add extra chili flakes or hot sauce for a fiery kick. You can also add jalapeños for more spice.

Cheesy Sausage and Rice Skillet: Stir in shredded cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy version. A combination of cheddar and mozzarella works well.

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet: Use Cajun seasoning, andouille sausage, and bell peppers for a Louisiana-style twist. Adding diced tomatoes enhances the flavor.

Vegetable-Packed Skillet: Add zucchini, mushrooms, and spinach for a nutrient-packed version. You can also toss in carrots for extra sweetness.

Mexican-Style Sausage and Rice: Use chorizo sausage, add black beans, and corn, and top with fresh cilantro. A dash of lime juice can brighten the dish.

One-Pot Italian Sausage and Rice: Use Italian sausage, add diced tomatoes, and season with basil and oregano. Parmesan cheese makes a great topping.

Brown Rice Version: Swap white rice for brown rice; just increase the cooking time to allow it to cook properly. The nuttier texture makes it even heartier.

Creamy Sausage and Rice: Add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end for a richer taste. It gives the dish a smooth, velvety consistency.

How to Store

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out.

For freezing, let the dish cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ

Can I use any type of sausage for this recipe?

Yes! Smoked sausage works best, but you can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, chorizo, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.

What type of rice should I use?

Long-grain white rice is ideal, but you can also use jasmine rice, brown rice (with a longer cooking time), or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to make it spicier. You can also use a spicy sausage like andouille or chorizo.

Do I need to cook the rice before adding it to the skillet?

No, the rice cooks directly in the broth, absorbing all the flavors. However, if you’re using pre-cooked rice, reduce the broth and cooking time.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes! This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be reheated easily. It also freezes well for meal prep.

How can I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?

Use a non-stick skillet or a well-seasoned cast iron pan. Stir occasionally while simmering and ensure there’s enough broth to keep the rice from drying out.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, and peas all work great in this recipe. You can mix and match based on your preferences.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water with a bouillon cube for added flavor.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes! Cook the sausage first, then add all the ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the rice is tender.

Sausage And Rice Skillet

Recipe by Wasian CookeryCourse: MainCuisine: American, SouthernDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

10

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Total time

30

minutes

This Sausage and Rice Skillet is a flavorful, one-pan meal that’s easy to make and full of hearty ingredients. It’s a great option for a quick, comforting dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 12 ounces (340g) smoked sausage, sliced

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• 1 cup frozen peas or corn

• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
• In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Stir in uncooked rice, paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the rice slightly.
• Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
• Return the sausage to the skillet, along with the frozen peas or corn. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
• Remove from heat. If using cheese, sprinkle it on top and let it melt. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot!