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Sausage and Rice Skillet

Featured in Delicious Main Course Recipes for Every Occasion.

This Sausage and Rice Skillet transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying meal with minimal effort and cleanup. The dish starts by browning smoked sausage to develop rich flavor, then builds layers of taste with colorful bell peppers, onions, and garlic. What makes this recipe special is its approach to creating depth of flavor in a short cooking time - the tomato paste is briefly caramelized with broth to create a quick but flavorful sauce, while paprika and cayenne add warmth without overwhelming heat. The brilliance of this dish lies in its versatility and efficiency; it's a complete meal in one pan that can be easily adapted based on the ingredients you have on hand. Whether you're cooking for a family weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this skillet meal delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
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Updated on Tue, 25 Feb 2025 16:44:04 GMT
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Sausage and Rice Skillet delivers hearty, home-cooked satisfaction with minimal effort and maximum flavor. This one-pan wonder combines smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and tender rice in a rich tomato sauce that transforms simple ingredients into a memorable meal. Perfect for busy weeknights, this skillet dinner offers comforting warmth and bold flavors that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

During a busy week when I was short on time but craving something comforting, I threw this together with ingredients from my pantry. My teenage son, who usually picks at his dinner, asked for the recipe so he could make it in his college apartment.

Essential Elements

  • Smoked sausage: Provides rich flavor foundation
  • Bell peppers: Add sweetness and vibrant color
  • Fresh onion: Creates aromatic base
  • Tomato paste: Delivers concentrated richness
  • Chicken broth: Adds depth while keeping rice moist
  • Paprika: Enhances the smoky elements
  • Fresh herbs: Brighten the finished dish
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Creating Perfect Skillet

Sausage Browning:
Cook sausage in a single layer for proper caramelization. This crucial step develops deep flavor.
Vegetable Sautéing:
Cook peppers and onions until softened but not mushy. Retain some texture for interest.
Sauce Building:
Combine tomato paste with broth gradually. Create smooth, concentrated base for flavors.
Final Integration:
Combine components with careful folding. Allow brief cooking time for flavors to meld.

My grandmother always said the best meals come from simple ingredients treated with care. This skillet embodies that philosophy perfectly.

Perfect Pairings

Serve this satisfying skillet with a simple side salad dressed with vinaigrette for freshness. A piece of crusty bread makes the perfect vehicle for soaking up every last bit of sauce. For a complete meal requiring zero additional effort, this skillet stands perfectly on its own.

Creative Variations

Experiment with different sausage varieties like andouille for heat or kielbasa for a smoky flavor. Try adding mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables, or stir in a handful of cheese just before serving for a creamy finish.

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Storage Success

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making this excellent for meal prep. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.

After perfecting this recipe through countless weeknight dinners, I've found that success lies in the details - the proper browning of the sausage, the gentle simmering of the sauce, and the careful folding of all ingredients. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this Sausage and Rice Skillet delivers homestyle comfort with minimal fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook. Prepare it separately according to package directions, as it generally requires 35-45 minutes instead of the 15-20 minutes for white rice.
→ What type of smoked sausage works best?
Any smoked sausage works well! Traditional options include kielbasa or Polish sausage, but andouille adds a Cajun kick, chorizo brings Spanish flavor, and turkey or chicken sausage offers a lighter alternative.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this dish reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Add a splash of broth when reheating to prevent it from drying out.
→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Substitute the smoked sausage with plant-based sausage or add extra vegetables and beans (like black beans or kidney beans). Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
→ What can I serve with this skillet meal?
This is a complete meal on its own, but a simple green salad, steamed broccoli, or garlic bread makes a nice accompaniment. For a heartier meal, add a fried egg on top.

Sausage and Rice Skillet

A quick and hearty one-pan dinner featuring smoked sausage, colorful bell peppers, and rice in a flavorful tomato-based sauce.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Southern

Yield: 4 Servings

Dietary: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

→ For the Skillet

01 1 1/4 cup white rice (uncooked)
02 2 teaspoons olive oil
03 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
04 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
05 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
06 1 small white onion, quartered and sliced
07 4 cloves garlic, minced
08 1/2 teaspoon kosher sea salt
09 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 5 tablespoons tomato paste
11 1 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth, divided
12 1 teaspoon paprika
13 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
14 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 01

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

Step 02

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.

Step 03

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.

Step 04

Reduce the heat to medium. Add tomato paste and 3/4 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.

Step 05

Add the cooked rice, sausage, remaining chicken broth, sautéed peppers, and onions back into the skillet. Stir well until everything is evenly combined.

Step 06

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot!

Notes

  1. For more spice, increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes
  2. Try different sausage varieties like andouille, chorizo, or turkey sausage
  3. Add cheese by stirring in shredded cheddar or Parmesan before serving
  4. Add more vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach

Tools You'll Need

  • Large cast iron skillet
  • Small saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • May contain soy (in some sausages)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 380
  • Total Fat: 16 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 45 g
  • Protein: 14 g