This Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet Dinner is a one-pan wonder! With tasty sausage, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies, it’s both simple and satisfying.
You’ll love how everything cooks together in one pot—less dishes to wash! I often add extra veggies to make it even heartier. Perfect for busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sausage: I recommend using smoked sausage for a rich flavor, but you can easily swap it for Italian sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter option.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best here. If you’re in a pinch, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will take longer to cook. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can also be good alternatives if you’re looking for something different.
Chicken Broth: If you want a vegetarian option, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth. It still helps in adding that depth of flavor.
Vegetables: I love using bell peppers for color, but feel free to swap in zucchini, corn, or any leftovers you have on hand. Fresh tomatoes can replace canned ones, just use a bit less liquid.
How Do I Ensure the Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking rice perfectly can be tricky, but it’s all about the right water-to-rice ratio. Here’s what to do:
- After adding chicken broth and tomatoes, make sure to stir well to combine flavors.
- Once it boils, reduce the heat immediately! Covering it will trap steam and help cook the rice evenly.
- Don’t lift the lid while it’s simmering; this keeps the steam in. Trust the timing!
Let it rest for a few minutes after cooking for fluffy rice. If you’re unsure, you can taste a bit for doneness before adding the peas.
Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup frozen peas or mixed vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dinner will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. A quick and easy meal for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage and cook it for about 4-5 minutes, or until it’s nice and browned. After it’s cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma.
3. Add Rice and Spices:
Now it’s time to add the rice! Stir in the long-grain white rice, smoked paprika, and oregano. Make sure the rice is well-coated with the oil and spices for great flavor.
4. Combine and Simmer:
Pour in the chicken broth along with the diced tomatoes (juices included). Stir everything together well. Then, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Add Vegetables:
After the 15 minutes are up, it’s time to throw in the frozen peas or mixed vegetables. Stir them in, cover again, and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This will ensure the rice is tender and absorbs all the flavors.
6. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat, and add salt and pepper to taste. If you want, you can garnish with some fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty, one-pan meal!
FAQ Section for Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to adjust the liquid and cooking duration accordingly—brown rice typically needs around 40-45 minutes to cook. You may want to add an additional half cup of broth.
What Type of Sausage Works Best?
Smoked sausage or Italian sausage are great choices for this recipe, providing rich flavor. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even a plant-based sausage if you’re looking for a vegetarian dish.
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Absolutely! You can prepare this dish ahead of time and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors may even deepen after sitting!
What Can I Substitute if I Don’t Have Chicken Broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth, vegetable broth is a great substitute that will keep the dish flavorful. You can also use water, but it won’t be as rich in taste. Just add a bit more seasoning if using water!
