Sausage and Rice Skillet

Sausage and Rice Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that combines savory sausage, fragrant spices, and fluffy rice for a satisfying and flavorful dish. It’s an easy weeknight dinner solution that requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum taste. Whether you’re feeding the family or meal-prepping for the week, this simple skillet is a go-to favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal—less cleanup, more convenience
• Ready in under an hour
• Comforting, filling, and full of flavor
• Easily customizable with vegetables or different sausages
• Great for leftovers and meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
• olive oil or cooking oil
• diced onion
• diced bell pepper
• garlic (minced or powder)
• long-grain white rice
• fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
• chicken broth
• smoked paprika
• dried thyme
• salt and pepper
• green onions or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides.
2. Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute to toast the spices.
4. Add the rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
7. Fluff with a fork, garnish with green onions or parsley, and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 30–35 minutes
• Total time: 40–45 minutes

Variations

• Add more veggies: Try zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach
• Make it spicy: Use spicy sausage and add red pepper flakes or cayenne
• Swap rice types: Use brown rice or quinoa (adjust liquid and cook time)
• Cheesy version: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack before serving
• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water
• Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in fridge before reheating

FAQs

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, but reduce the cooking liquid and cook time accordingly.

What sausage works best?

Smoked sausage like kielbasa or Andouille adds the most flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it stores and reheats well—perfect for meal prep.

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but increase the broth and cooking time by about 15–20 minutes.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Use a non-stick skillet and stir before simmering to make sure nothing is sticking.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free sausage and broth.

What can I serve with this dish?

A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great accompaniments.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely. Use a large skillet or pot and adjust cooking times slightly.

Is it spicy?

Only mildly spicy. Adjust spice level to your preference with hot sausage or extra seasoning.

Can I use leftover cooked rice?

Yes, reduce the broth and skip the simmering—just heat everything together until warmed through.

Conclusion

Sausage and Rice Skillet is a versatile, delicious, and easy dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week. With bold sausage flavor, tender rice, and endless customization options, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort and cleanup.

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