Sausage and Rice Skillet

You know those nights when you just don’t feel like cooking? Yeah, me too. That’s when my go-to, no-fuss, one-pan meal saves the day—this hearty sausage and rice skillet.

It’s warm, it’s comforting, and best of all, it’s so easy. We’re talking juicy sausage, fluffy rice, and a medley of flavors all cooked in one pan. No piles of dishes, no complicated steps—just good, honest food.

And here’s the best part: you can switch it up! Spicy, smoky, cheesy—you name it. Every bite is packed with flavor, and you won’t believe how fast it comes together.

So, let’s do this! Grab your skillet, and I’ll walk you through the simple steps. Trust me, this might just become your new favorite weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Satisfying: A hearty meal made in just one pan.
• Bold & Smoky Flavors: Sausage and paprika add deep, smoky notes.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep.
• Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh for days and reheats well.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings

Serves 4-6 people as a main dish.

Difficulty

Beginner-friendly—anyone can make it!

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: Preferably non-stick or cast iron.
• Cutting Board & Knife: For slicing vegetables and sausage.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate ingredient portions.
• Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and preventing sticking.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you need for this delicious one-pan meal:

Main Ingredients

• 1 cup white rice (uncooked) – Long-grain rice works best.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing.
• 12 oz smoked sausage (sliced into rounds) – Andouille, kielbasa, or any smoked variety.
• 1 red bell pepper (diced) – Adds sweetness and color.
• 1 yellow bell pepper (diced) – Balances the red pepper’s flavor.
• 1 white onion (diced) – Brings depth to the dish.
• 3 cloves garlic (minced) – Enhances overall flavor.

Seasonings & Liquids

• 1 teaspoon kosher sea salt – Adjust to taste.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper – For mild heat.
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Adds richness and a touch of sweetness.
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – Cooks the rice while infusing flavor.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Gives a deep, smoky flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – Adds a little kick.
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish) – Brings freshness and color.

How to Make Sausage and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until golden and slightly crispy on both sides.
3. Transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Seasonings

1. Stir in 1 cup of uncooked white rice, mixing well to coat it with the oil and vegetable mixture.
2. Add 1 teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and ¼ teaspoon cayenne (if using).
3. Cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently to toast the rice slightly, which helps develop flavor.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

1. Add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and stir well to coat everything evenly.
2. Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Return the browned sausage to the pan and stir to combine.

Step 5: Let It Cook

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
3. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to fully absorb the flavors.

How to Serve Sausage and Rice Skillet

This dish is hearty and satisfying on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate it:

• With a Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve alongside a warm baguette or dinner rolls to soak up any extra sauce.
• With a Fried Egg: Top each serving with a fried or poached egg for added protein and richness.
• With Hot Sauce: Drizzle with your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat

• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until hot.

Variations for Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Use Different Sausage: Swap smoked sausage for andouille, chorizo, or chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.
• Make It Spicier: Increase the cayenne, add red pepper flakes, or stir in chopped jalapeños.
• Add More Veggies: Stir in peas, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
• Try a Cajun Twist: Use Cajun seasoning and swap the broth for a mix of broth and diced tomatoes.

Nutrition Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutrition per serving (based on 6 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	450-500 kcal
Protein	18g
Carbohydrates	50g
Fat	20g
Fiber	3g
Sodium	900mg
Sugar	4g

Note: Exact values may vary depending on the type of sausage and broth used.

Sausage and Rice Skillet FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to add extra liquid and increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.

What’s the best type of sausage to use?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or andouille work best for this dish due to their bold flavors.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the sausage for vegetarian sausage or chickpeas and use vegetable broth.

How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking and avoid stirring too much while it’s simmering.

Conclusion

This Sausage and Rice Skillet is a quick, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a crowd. Try it once, and it just might become a staple in your home!