Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, one-pan meal that bursts with flavor and comes together quickly, this Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is going to be your new go-to. It’s a beautiful blend of savory sausage, tender rice, vibrant veggies, and just the right balance of spices, all melded into a comforting skillet dinner that fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this dish never disappoints because it’s not only simple but packed with homestyle goodness in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to nailing this simple yet satisfying dish. Each component plays a vital role—from the spice of the sausage and the sweetness of the bell pepper to the rich depth the chicken broth adds. These essentials come together perfectly to create a colorful and flavorful Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe.

• 1 pound of sausage (mild or spicy): Choose your favorite, as it sets the overall flavor tone.
• 1 cup of long-grain white rice: Absorbs all the savory juices beautifully, creating a fluffy texture.
• 2 cups of chicken broth: Adds richness and depth, much better than just water.
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained: Brings acidity and vibrant tomato flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides a subtle sweetness and texture contrast.
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped: Adds color and a fresh crunch.
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced: Offers an aromatic punch to tie flavors together.
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil: Helps sauté veggies and bring everything together.
• 1 teaspoon of paprika: Delivers smoky warmth and a lovely color.
• 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper: For everyday spice and depth.
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
• 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a little kick for those who love a bit of heat.
• 1 cup of frozen peas: Pops of sweetness and extra color at the finish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note.

How to Make Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion and green bell pepper, cooking them gently until they soften and become fragrant, usually around 3 to 4 minutes. This step builds the foundational flavors and adds a delightful sweetness and crunch to the dish.

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Next, add the minced garlic to your skillet and stir for about a minute until it releases its aroma. Garlic is a small ingredient that makes a big difference, providing a rich, savory background flavor that perfectly complements the sausage.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Remove the sausage from its casing if needed, then crumble it into the skillet with your vegetables. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This caramelization adds a meatiness and savory depth that’s absolutely essential for your Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe.

Step 4: Drain Fat

For a cleaner taste and less grease, drain any excess fat from the skillet. This keeps your dish flavorful but not oily, maintaining the perfect balance between richness and freshness.

Step 5: Stir in the Rice

Add your rice to the pan, stirring well so every grain gets coated with those delicious sausage juices and vegetable bits. This step ensures the rice soaks up maximum flavor as it cooks.

Step 6: Add Liquids and Spices

Pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. Sprinkle in paprika, black pepper, salt, and the optional red pepper flakes if you want an extra spark of heat. Stir everything to combine, bringing all those vibrant ingredients together for the rich cooking liquid that’ll soften your rice.

Step 7: Simmer the Rice

Turn the heat up and bring the skillet mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes. This slow cooking softens the rice perfectly as it absorbs all those wonderful flavors.

Step 8: Add the Peas

After the rice is tender, stir in the frozen peas. Let them warm through for about 3 to 4 minutes, adding a pleasant pop of color and a subtle sweetness that contrasts so nicely with the savory sausage.

Step 9: Finish Cooking

Give everything one last stir to mix the peas evenly, making sure your Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is piping hot and perfectly combined before you remove it from the heat.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright, herbal finishing touch. This not only adds color but brings a fresh note that lifts the entire dish beautifully.

How to Serve Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

Beyond fresh parsley, some grated Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon can elevate this skillet meal further, adding brightness or a salty umami accent to balance the richness of the sausage and rice.

Side Dishes

A crisp green salad or simple steamed vegetables make wonderful companions by bringing lightness to your plate, while crusty bread or cornbread helps soak up every last bit of that flavorful sauce. These sides round out the meal without stealing the spotlight.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving your Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe over a bed of sautéed greens or stuffing it into bell peppers and baking for a festive presentation. You could also sprinkle some crumbled feta or shredded cheese on top and broil briefly for a golden, bubbly finish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it cool to room temperature before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

Feel free to freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the texture and flavor integrity of the sausage and rice.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. This method helps revive the rice and sausage without drying the dish out, keeping every spoonful just as tasty as when freshly cooked.

FAQs

Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! Mild, spicy, smoked, or even chicken sausage all work well. Just pick your favorite flavor profile to customize the dish to your taste.

What can I substitute for frozen peas?

If you don’t have peas, green beans, corn, or fresh chopped spinach make fantastic alternatives that add color and nutrition to this skillet meal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, when using plain rice and gluten-free sausage and broth, this Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free and safe for those avoiding gluten.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

To keep it vegetarian, swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious meat-free option.

What’s the best way to prevent the rice from sticking?

Make sure to stir the rice well after adding it, and keep the heat low during simmering. Using a well-seasoned or nonstick skillet also helps keep everything from sticking and burning.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is truly a kitchen hero—easy, flavorful, and ready to warm you up any day of the week. It combines simple ingredients to create a satisfying meal that feels like a comforting hug in every bite. So don’t hesitate—grab your skillet and give this recipe a whirl; you’ll wonder how you ever cooked without it!

Print