If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together in one pan, search no more! This Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is your ticket to a satisfying dinner that’s both easy to make and full of vibrant taste. With smoky sausages and colorful veggies swirling through savory rice, this dish will become an instant favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder: Only one pan to wash at the end means more time to enjoy your meal.
- Burst of Flavors: The Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is packed with spices that bring every bite to life.
- Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever smoked sausage or rice you have on hand for a meal that’s deliciously adaptable.
- Quick Cook: Comes together in under an hour – perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is all about keeping it simple with select ingredients that pack a punch. Each component plays a crucial role in delivering the mixture of textures and rich flavors that makes this dish so delightful.
- 14 oz Andouille sausage: Adds a smoky, spicy kick to the dish. Feel free to substitute with any smoked sausage if needed.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The base that absorbs all the rich flavors from the skillet.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Provides a sweet contrast and pop of color.
- 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes: These add depth with a hint of smokiness.
- 1.5 cups chicken broth: Enhances the complexity of flavors and ensures the rice cooks to perfection.
- Spices: A blend of smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic, and onion powders, cayenne, and freshly cracked black pepper add layers of flavor.
- 2 green onions, sliced: A fresh garnish that adds color and a mild onion scent.
Variations
One of the best things about the Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is how easy it is to make it your own! You can mix things up based on what you have in your pantry or to suit dietary preferences.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the sausage and increase the veggies. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it hearty and fulfilling.
- Different Grains: Swap out white rice for brown rice or quinoa, adjusting the cooking time and liquid as needed.
- Add More Heat: Increase the cayenne or add slices of jalapeños for a spicier kick.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in some shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese before serving for a deliciously creamy twist.
How to Make Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by slicing the sausage into nice, chunky pieces and let them sizzle with the cooking oil in a deep skillet. Allow them to brown to perfection, giving you that irresistible crispy edge.
Step 2: Sauté the Peppers
While your sausage sizzles, dice your bell pepper. Toss it into the skillet once the sausage is ready, letting it mingle and absorb those delicious flavors. Sauté until the peppers are just tender.
Step 3: Toast the Spices
Sprinkle in the spices – this step is crucial as toasting them unlocks their full potential. Continue to sauté for a minute, letting the aromas envelop your kitchen.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, rice, and chicken broth. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the skillet. Bring it to a boil, then cover and lower the heat to let it simmer gently.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
After simmering, let the skillet rest for about five minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Fluff the rice, fold in the sausage, and sprinkle with fresh green onions for a burst of color and taste as you serve.
Pro Tips for Making Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Sizzling Start: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the sausage to lock in those juices and flavor.
- Perfect Timing: Don’t rush the simmering step—it’s key to getting the rice tender and flavorful.
- Spice Adjustment: Taste as you cook and adjust spices as needed to match your preference.
- Broth Boost: Opt for a high-quality broth for a richer, deeper flavor profile in the final dish.
How to Serve Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of sliced green onions not only adds a fresh taste but also a vibrant pop of color. You could also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a hint of citrus that complements the spices beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Alternatively, some roasted vegetables or a warm bread roll would complement the dish quite nicely, adding both texture and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving it in individual bowls or even cast iron skillets for a rustic, upscale touch. Add some colorful cloth napkins or fresh herbs as a garnish for a dining experience that feels both homey and chic.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sausage and rice skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This dish is perfect for meal prep, retaining its flavor and texture beautifully.
Freezing
To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be tucked away in the freezer for up to three months, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If needed, add a splash of broth to moisten the rice while reheating, ensuring that the dish is as delightful as when freshly made.
FAQs
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Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in the Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Just remember to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice.
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How can I make this recipe less spicy?
To tone down the spice level, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. Choosing a milder sausage will also help control the heat.
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Can I use a different type of broth?
Certainly! Vegetable broth is a great alternative for a lighter flavor or to make the dish vegetarian. Either way, opt for a high-quality broth for the best result.
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How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat with a bit of additional broth to keep it moist and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
The Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is not just a dish, it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and comforting aromas. Give it a try and see how a simple meal can transform your dinner routine—your taste buds and family will thank you!
Print
Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This flavorful Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe combines spicy Andouille sausage with tender rice and vibrant bell peppers, all simmered in a rich tomato broth and seasoned with smoky spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, it offers bold flavors and hearty ingredients in one skillet.
Ingredients
Meat and Oil
- 14 oz Andouille sausage
Vegetables and Spices
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
Grains
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Garnish
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- Brown Sausage: Slice the sausage into ¼-½ inch thick slices. Add the sausage and cooking oil to a deep skillet or Dutch oven and sauté over medium heat until the sausage is well browned.
- Sauté Peppers: While the sausage is cooking, dice the bell pepper. Once the sausage is browned, add the bell pepper to the skillet and continue to sauté for about one more minute.
- Toast Spices: Add the spices (smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper) to the skillet with the sausage and bell pepper and continue to sauté for one minute more to toast the spices.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add the fire-roasted diced tomatoes (with juices), rice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir to combine and dissolve any browned bits off the bottom of the skillet.
- Simmer: Place a lid on the skillet, turn the heat up to medium-high, and allow the broth to come to a full boil. Once it reaches a boil, turn the heat down to low and let the skillet simmer for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, with the lid on, for an additional 5 minutes.
- Serve: After resting, remove the lid, and fold the sausage and rice to evenly distribute. Top with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Sausage: If you cannot find Andouille sausage, substitute with smoked pork sausage or other smoked sausage varieties.
- Rice: For a healthier option, use brown rice but remember to adjust cooking time and liquid accordingly.
- Broth: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian adaptation.
- Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper amount according to your preferred heat level.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with a green salad or sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 1000 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
