If you're on the hunt for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that pleases the whole family, look no further than this Delicious Sausage and Rice Recipe. This one-pan wonder combines savory sausage, perfectly seasoned rice, and aromatic vegetables, all cooked together in a single skillet for maximum taste and minimal cleanup. Whether you're whipping up a weeknight dinner or prepping meals for the week, this dish is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why This Sausage and Rice Recipe Stands Out
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One-pan simplicity: Fewer dishes, faster cleanup
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Customizable ingredients: Swap vegetables, choose your favorite sausage
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Budget-friendly: Made with pantry staples and affordable ingredients
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Deep, layered flavors: Thanks to seared sausage, spices, and slow-cooked rice
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Meal-prep friendly: Makes great leftovers and reheats beautifully
Ingredients You’ll Need
Main Ingredients:
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1 lb smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or Italian), sliced into rounds
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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1 bell pepper (any color), diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup long grain white rice
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2 cups chicken broth
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1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt, to taste
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Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes (for heat)
Optional Garnishes:
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Chopped parsley
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Grated Parmesan cheese
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Hot sauce
How to Make the Best Sausage and Rice
Step 1: Sear the Sausage
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir to coat with the vegetable mixture. Toast for about 2 minutes to bring out the nutty flavor.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the sausage to the pan. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), paprika, thyme, pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Step 5: Cover and Cook
Cover the skillet and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Rest and Fluff
Remove the skillet from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
Flavor Profile and Texture
This dish delivers a delicious balance of smoky, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. The sausage adds a deep, meaty taste, while the tomatoes and spices infuse the rice with rich undertones. The final texture is soft and comforting, with little bursts of crispy sausage and tender vegetables throughout.
Variations to Try
Cajun Sausage and Rice
Add more cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning for a spicier Southern twist.
Cheesy Sausage and Rice
Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese before serving for extra creaminess.
Healthy Version
Use turkey or chicken sausage and substitute brown rice. Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini.
Veggie-Packed
Incorporate mushrooms, corn, peas, or broccoli for a more balanced one-dish meal.
Tips for Perfect Results
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Choose quality sausage: It’s the star of the dish. Smoked, spicy, or herbed sausages all work.
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Use long grain rice: Short grain or instant rice may result in a mushy texture.
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Don't rush the simmer: Letting the rice absorb the flavors slowly makes all the difference.
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Deglaze the pan: Scrape up those browned bits from the sausage—they're flavor gold!
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious sausage and rice with:
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A crisp green salad
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Steamed green beans
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Garlic bread or cornbread
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A fried egg on top for a brunch twist
This dish is satisfying on its own but plays well with simple sides if you’re serving a crowd.
Make-Ahead and Storage
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Meal prep: Divide into containers for a quick lunch or dinner throughout the week.
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Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Freezing: Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
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Reheating: Microwave with a splash of broth or water to rehydrate the rice.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This is the kind of recipe you turn to when you want comfort food with a punch of flavor. It’s cozy, filling, and totally satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Whether you're feeding a hungry family, stocking your freezer, or enjoying a quiet meal, this Delicious Sausage and Rice dish is a guaranteed hit.
