Sausage and Rice Skillet
The Sausage and Rice Skillet is a quick, one-pan meal that combines savory sausage, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables for a hearty, flavorful dinner. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe offers a simple preparation, balanced nutrition, and customizable options that make it a family favorite.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Sausage and Proteins
- 1 lb Italian or smoked sausage, sliced or crumbled
Rice and Grains
- 1 cup long grain or jasmine rice (uncooked)
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1–2 bell peppers, chopped
- Optional: zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach (to taste)
Liquids
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (with juices) or tomato sauce
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Optional spices: crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (to taste)
- Prepare and Brown the Sausage: Slice or crumble the sausage. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the sausage for 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onions and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Add chopped bell peppers and sauté for another 5 minutes until tender, using sausage drippings for flavor.
- Add Rice and Seasonings: Stir in uncooked rice, coating it with oil and mixing with the veggies. Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and any additional seasonings. Toast the rice lightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance flavor.
- Pour in Broth and Tomatoes: Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices to the skillet. Stir well, scraping the bottom to release browned bits. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover tightly.
- Simmer Until Rice is Tender: Let simmer covered for 18-20 minutes until the rice absorbs all liquid and is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to keep steam in.
- Combine and Serve: Return the browned sausage to the skillet, gently stirring to combine. Heat through on low for 2 minutes, then remove from heat. Serve warm with optional garnishes.
Notes
- Cut sausage into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Use long grain rice for fluffier texture and to prevent mushiness.
- Allow rice to absorb liquid fully by not rushing or frequently lifting lid.
- Adjust seasoning gradually and taste at each stage for perfect flavor.
- Use a tightly fitting lid to trap steam and cook rice evenly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 6 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
Keywords: sausage skillet, one pan meal, sausage and rice, quick dinner, easy skillet recipe, weeknight meal, gluten free, savory sausage dish