Sausage and Rice Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Everything comes together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

• Flavor-Packed: Smoky sausage, sautéed peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce make every bite irresistible.

• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, spice it up, or add extra protein—this recipe is super versatile.

• Comforting & Filling: The combination of rice, sausage, and veggies is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own.

Ingredients

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

• 1 ¼ cup white rice (uncooked)

• 2 teaspoon olive oil

• 12 oz smoked sausage (sliced)

• ½ red bell pepper (sliced)

• ½ yellow bell pepper (sliced)

• 1 small white onion (quartered and sliced)

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• ½ teaspoon kosher sea salt

• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

• 5 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 ¼ cup low-sodium chicken broth (divided)

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

• 1 ½ tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Rice: In a small saucepan, prepare the white rice according to the package instructions. Once done, set it aside.

2. Brown the Sausage: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and let it heat until shimmering. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5 minutes, until browned on both sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic, salt, and black pepper and cook for 1 more minute, stirring until fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the sausage.

4. Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add tomato paste and ¾ cup of chicken broth to the skillet. Whisk until combined and let it simmer for 1 minute. Stir in paprika and cayenne pepper for extra flavor.

5. Combine Everything: Add the cooked rice into the skillet with the sauce. Pour in the remaining ½ cup of chicken broth to keep everything moist and flavorful. Return the sausage and sautéed vegetables to the skillet. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add More Vegetables: Incorporate diced tomatoes, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition.

• Spice It Up: Increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.

• Different Proteins: Substitute the smoked sausage with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different flavor profile.

• Cheesy Twist: Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese at the end for a creamy texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish until heated through.

FAQs

What type of sausage works best for this recipe?

Smoked sausage is ideal for this dish due to its rich flavor and firm texture.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but note that brown rice has a longer cooking time and may require more liquid.

Is this recipe spicy?

The dish has a mild heat from the cayenne pepper. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. Substitute the sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Ensure that the sausage and chicken broth used are certified gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

What can I serve with this skillet meal?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables complement this dish well.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat before serving.

How do I prevent the rice from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcooking the rice and ensure it's not over-simmered in the sauce.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Certainly. Black beans or kidney beans make a great addition for extra protein and fiber.

Conclusion

The Sausage and Rice Skillet is a versatile and satisfying meal that's perfect for any night of the week. With its combination of smoky sausage, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful rice, it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the simplicity and deliciousness of this one-pan wonder!