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Sausage Rice Skillet Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

by on January 8, 2025

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Looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal? The Sausage Rice Skillet is your answer! This one-pan dish packs flavor and is simple to make, perfect for busy nights. With just a few basic ingredients, you can whip up a tasty meal that the whole family will love. Ready to learn how to create it? Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to make your new favorite dinner!

To make a tasty sausage rice skillet, you need these key items: - 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed) - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup frozen peas - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish These ingredients come together to create a warm and filling dish. The sausage gives great flavor, while the rice absorbs all the tasty broth. You can change things up with some fun extras: - 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) - 1 zucchini, diced - 1 can diced tomatoes, drained - Hot sauce for heat - Cheese for creaminess These ingredients let you make the dish your own. Try adding your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Using fresh ingredients can make your dish brighter and more flavorful. Fresh peppers, onions, or peas add a nice crunch. However, frozen veggies work great too. They save time and still taste good. In busy weeks, frozen ingredients help you whip up this meal fast. Just remember, if using frozen peas, add them towards the end to keep their color and texture. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, gather your veggies. You need a bell pepper and an onion. Chop the onion into small pieces. Dice the bell pepper into cubes. This adds color and crunch to your dish. Next, mince two cloves of garlic. Garlic gives a great flavor. In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them for about five minutes. You want them to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The garlic should smell amazing. Now it’s time for the main star: the sausage. Remove the casings from one pound of Italian sausage. You can choose sweet or spicy based on your taste. Push the veggies to the side of the skillet. Add the sausage to the center. Cook it for about five to seven minutes. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and cooked through. Once the sausage is ready, mix in one teaspoon of smoked paprika, one teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This spices up the dish. Stir well to blend all the flavors. Next, add one cup of long-grain white rice to the skillet. Stir it in and let it toast for about two minutes. This helps the rice get a nice flavor. Now, pour in two cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover your skillet and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This is when the rice cooks and absorbs the broth. After the rice is tender, add one cup of frozen peas. Stir to combine everything. Cook uncovered for an additional five minutes to warm the peas. Finally, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious sausage rice skillet! To cook rice well, start with rinsing it. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. Next, add it to your skillet with the sausage and veggies. Stir it in for about two minutes. This toasting step adds flavor. Then, pour in your chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover. Let it simmer. In about 15 to 20 minutes, your rice will be fluffy and perfect. To boost flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Add them at the end for a fresh taste. You can also try adding a splash of lemon juice. This adds brightness to your dish. For heat, consider adding crushed red pepper or hot sauce. You can adjust these to your taste. Smoked paprika and oregano are key spices too. They add depth and warmth to the meal. If your rice is too soggy, it might have cooked too long. Next time, check the rice sooner. If it’s too dry, you can add a bit more broth or water. Stir it gently, cover, and let it sit for a few minutes. For uneven cooking, make sure to stir well. Stirring helps blend all the flavors and ensures even cooking. If the sausage isn’t browning, increase the heat slightly. Just watch it closely to avoid burning. Pro Tips Choose the Right Sausage: Select a sausage that suits your taste preference, whether sweet or spicy, as it greatly influences the dish's flavor. Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice for a couple of minutes before adding the broth enhances its nuttiness and adds extra depth to the dish. Adjust Liquid as Needed: If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a little more broth or water during cooking. Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a bright flavor that complements the richness of the sausage and rice. {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Just use gluten-free sausage. Replace regular chicken broth with gluten-free broth. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal without worry. If you want it dairy-free, you don’t need any dairy in this recipe. It’s all about the sausage, rice, and veggies, so you are safe! While Italian sausage shines in this dish, you can switch it up. Use chicken for a lighter flavor. Cook diced chicken in the same way as sausage. Tofu is another great option if you want a plant-based meal. Press and cube the tofu, then brown it in the skillet. This adds protein and keeps the meal satisfying. Boost the nutrition by adding more vegetables. Chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach work well. You can add them when you cook the onion and bell pepper. This way, they soften and blend into the dish nicely. Extra veggies not only improve health but also add color and texture. Feel free to get creative and use what you have! To keep your Sausage Rice Skillet fresh, let it cool first. Once cool, transfer it into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you can track how long it has been stored. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Heat over medium-low until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also use the microwave. Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts. Stir between intervals for even heating. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Allow the skillet to cool completely before freezing. Portion the rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date, and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, then reheat as mentioned above. Yes, you can use brown rice. Brown rice takes longer to cook, about 40-45 minutes. Adjust the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups to help it cook fully. The dish will have a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture. Be sure to check the rice while cooking, as it may need more time. You can use vegetable broth or water. Both options work well. If using water, add more seasonings to boost flavor. You can also use low-sodium broth for a healthier choice. Homemade broth is a great option too, adding more depth to the dish. The sausage rice skillet lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. In this post, we explored making a tasty sausage rice skillet. You learned about key ingredients and how to customize your dish. We discussed cooking techniques, tips for perfect rice, and alternatives for different diets. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh. Now, you can enjoy this meal anytime. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and fun. Try new things and make it your own!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This skillet meal comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in one skillet, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without stress.
  3. Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of Italian sausage, smoked paprika, and fresh veggies creates a deliciously satisfying dish.
  4. Customizable: This recipe is versatile; you can swap in your favorite vegetables or use a different type of sausage.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients for Sausage Rice Skillet

To make a tasty sausage rice skillet, you need these key items:

– 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)

– 1 cup long-grain white rice

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

– 1 medium onion, chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup frozen peas

– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

These ingredients come together to create a warm and filling dish. The sausage gives great flavor, while the rice absorbs all the tasty broth.

Optional Ingredients for Customization

You can change things up with some fun extras:

– 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

– 1 zucchini, diced

– 1 can diced tomatoes, drained

– Hot sauce for heat

– Cheese for creaminess

These ingredients let you make the dish your own. Try adding your favorites or whatever you have on hand.

Suggestions for Fresh vs. Frozen Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients can make your dish brighter and more flavorful. Fresh peppers, onions, or peas add a nice crunch. However, frozen veggies work great too. They save time and still taste good.

In busy weeks, frozen ingredients help you whip up this meal fast. Just remember, if using frozen peas, add them towards the end to keep their color and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Vegetables

First, gather your veggies. You need a bell pepper and an onion. Chop the onion into small pieces. Dice the bell pepper into cubes. This adds color and crunch to your dish. Next, mince two cloves of garlic. Garlic gives a great flavor.

In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them for about five minutes. You want them to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The garlic should smell amazing.

Cooking the Sausage

Now it’s time for the main star: the sausage. Remove the casings from one pound of Italian sausage. You can choose sweet or spicy based on your taste. Push the veggies to the side of the skillet. Add the sausage to the center. Cook it for about five to seven minutes. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and cooked through.

Once the sausage is ready, mix in one teaspoon of smoked paprika, one teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This spices up the dish. Stir well to blend all the flavors.

Incorporating Rice and Broth

Next, add one cup of long-grain white rice to the skillet. Stir it in and let it toast for about two minutes. This helps the rice get a nice flavor. Now, pour in two cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover your skillet and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This is when the rice cooks and absorbs the broth. After the rice is tender, add one cup of frozen peas. Stir to combine everything. Cook uncovered for an additional five minutes to warm the peas.

Finally, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious sausage rice skillet!

Tips & Tricks

How to Perfectly Cook Rice in a Skillet

To cook rice well, start with rinsing it. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. Next, add it to your skillet with the sausage and veggies. Stir it in for about two minutes. This toasting step adds flavor. Then, pour in your chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover. Let it simmer. In about 15 to 20 minutes, your rice will be fluffy and perfect.

Best Practices for Flavor Enhancement

To boost flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Add them at the end for a fresh taste. You can also try adding a splash of lemon juice. This adds brightness to your dish. For heat, consider adding crushed red pepper or hot sauce. You can adjust these to your taste. Smoked paprika and oregano are key spices too. They add depth and warmth to the meal.

Troubleshooting Common Cooking Issues

If your rice is too soggy, it might have cooked too long. Next time, check the rice sooner. If it’s too dry, you can add a bit more broth or water. Stir it gently, cover, and let it sit for a few minutes. For uneven cooking, make sure to stir well. Stirring helps blend all the flavors and ensures even cooking. If the sausage isn’t browning, increase the heat slightly. Just watch it closely to avoid burning.

Pro Tips

  1. Choose the Right Sausage: Select a sausage that suits your taste preference, whether sweet or spicy, as it greatly influences the dish’s flavor.
  2. Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice for a couple of minutes before adding the broth enhances its nuttiness and adds extra depth to the dish.
  3. Adjust Liquid as Needed: If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a little more broth or water during cooking.
  4. Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a bright flavor that complements the richness of the sausage and rice.

Variations

Dietary-Friendly Alternatives (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)

You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Just use gluten-free sausage. Replace regular chicken broth with gluten-free broth. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal without worry. If you want it dairy-free, you don’t need any dairy in this recipe. It’s all about the sausage, rice, and veggies, so you are safe!

Different Protein Options (Chicken, Tofu)

While Italian sausage shines in this dish, you can switch it up. Use chicken for a lighter flavor. Cook diced chicken in the same way as sausage. Tofu is another great option if you want a plant-based meal. Press and cube the tofu, then brown it in the skillet. This adds protein and keeps the meal satisfying.

Adding Extra Vegetables for Nutrition

Boost the nutrition by adding more vegetables. Chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach work well. You can add them when you cook the onion and bell pepper. This way, they soften and blend into the dish nicely. Extra veggies not only improve health but also add color and texture. Feel free to get creative and use what you have!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers Properly

To keep your Sausage Rice Skillet fresh, let it cool first. Once cool, transfer it into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you can track how long it has been stored.

Reheating Tips for Best Flavor

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Heat over medium-low until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also use the microwave. Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts. Stir between intervals for even heating.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Allow the skillet to cool completely before freezing. Portion the rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date, and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, then reheat as mentioned above.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice. Brown rice takes longer to cook, about 40-45 minutes. Adjust the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups to help it cook fully. The dish will have a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture. Be sure to check the rice while cooking, as it may need more time.

What can I substitute for chicken broth?

You can use vegetable broth or water. Both options work well. If using water, add more seasonings to boost flavor. You can also use low-sodium broth for a healthier choice. Homemade broth is a great option too, adding more depth to the dish.

How long does the sausage rice skillet last in the fridge?

The sausage rice skillet lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months.

In this post, we explored making a tasty sausage rice skillet. You learned about key ingredients and how to customize your dish. We discussed cooking techniques, tips for perfect rice, and alternatives for different diets. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh.

Now, you can enjoy this meal anytime. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and fun. Try new things and make it your ow

To make a tasty sausage rice skillet, you need these key items: - 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed) - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced - 1 medium onion, chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup frozen peas - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish These ingredients come together to create a warm and filling dish. The sausage gives great flavor, while the rice absorbs all the tasty broth. You can change things up with some fun extras: - 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen) - 1 zucchini, diced - 1 can diced tomatoes, drained - Hot sauce for heat - Cheese for creaminess These ingredients let you make the dish your own. Try adding your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Using fresh ingredients can make your dish brighter and more flavorful. Fresh peppers, onions, or peas add a nice crunch. However, frozen veggies work great too. They save time and still taste good. In busy weeks, frozen ingredients help you whip up this meal fast. Just remember, if using frozen peas, add them towards the end to keep their color and texture. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, gather your veggies. You need a bell pepper and an onion. Chop the onion into small pieces. Dice the bell pepper into cubes. This adds color and crunch to your dish. Next, mince two cloves of garlic. Garlic gives a great flavor. In a large skillet, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté them for about five minutes. You want them to soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute. The garlic should smell amazing. Now it’s time for the main star: the sausage. Remove the casings from one pound of Italian sausage. You can choose sweet or spicy based on your taste. Push the veggies to the side of the skillet. Add the sausage to the center. Cook it for about five to seven minutes. Break it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and cooked through. Once the sausage is ready, mix in one teaspoon of smoked paprika, one teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This spices up the dish. Stir well to blend all the flavors. Next, add one cup of long-grain white rice to the skillet. Stir it in and let it toast for about two minutes. This helps the rice get a nice flavor. Now, pour in two cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover your skillet and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This is when the rice cooks and absorbs the broth. After the rice is tender, add one cup of frozen peas. Stir to combine everything. Cook uncovered for an additional five minutes to warm the peas. Finally, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. For a fresh finish, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Enjoy your delicious sausage rice skillet! To cook rice well, start with rinsing it. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch. Next, add it to your skillet with the sausage and veggies. Stir it in for about two minutes. This toasting step adds flavor. Then, pour in your chicken broth. Bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and cover. Let it simmer. In about 15 to 20 minutes, your rice will be fluffy and perfect. To boost flavor, use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. Add them at the end for a fresh taste. You can also try adding a splash of lemon juice. This adds brightness to your dish. For heat, consider adding crushed red pepper or hot sauce. You can adjust these to your taste. Smoked paprika and oregano are key spices too. They add depth and warmth to the meal. If your rice is too soggy, it might have cooked too long. Next time, check the rice sooner. If it’s too dry, you can add a bit more broth or water. Stir it gently, cover, and let it sit for a few minutes. For uneven cooking, make sure to stir well. Stirring helps blend all the flavors and ensures even cooking. If the sausage isn’t browning, increase the heat slightly. Just watch it closely to avoid burning. Pro Tips Choose the Right Sausage: Select a sausage that suits your taste preference, whether sweet or spicy, as it greatly influences the dish's flavor. Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice for a couple of minutes before adding the broth enhances its nuttiness and adds extra depth to the dish. Adjust Liquid as Needed: If you prefer a creamier texture, feel free to add a little more broth or water during cooking. Garnish for Freshness: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a bright flavor that complements the richness of the sausage and rice. {{image_2}} You can easily make this dish gluten-free. Just use gluten-free sausage. Replace regular chicken broth with gluten-free broth. This way, everyone can enjoy the meal without worry. If you want it dairy-free, you don’t need any dairy in this recipe. It’s all about the sausage, rice, and veggies, so you are safe! While Italian sausage shines in this dish, you can switch it up. Use chicken for a lighter flavor. Cook diced chicken in the same way as sausage. Tofu is another great option if you want a plant-based meal. Press and cube the tofu, then brown it in the skillet. This adds protein and keeps the meal satisfying. Boost the nutrition by adding more vegetables. Chopped carrots, zucchini, or spinach work well. You can add them when you cook the onion and bell pepper. This way, they soften and blend into the dish nicely. Extra veggies not only improve health but also add color and texture. Feel free to get creative and use what you have! To keep your Sausage Rice Skillet fresh, let it cool first. Once cool, transfer it into an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This way, you can track how long it has been stored. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Heat over medium-low until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also use the microwave. Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short bursts. Stir between intervals for even heating. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Allow the skillet to cool completely before freezing. Portion the rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label with the date, and freeze for up to three months. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight, then reheat as mentioned above. Yes, you can use brown rice. Brown rice takes longer to cook, about 40-45 minutes. Adjust the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups to help it cook fully. The dish will have a nuttier flavor and a chewier texture. Be sure to check the rice while cooking, as it may need more time. You can use vegetable broth or water. Both options work well. If using water, add more seasonings to boost flavor. You can also use low-sodium broth for a healthier choice. Homemade broth is a great option too, adding more depth to the dish. The sausage rice skillet lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to store it in an airtight container. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it for up to 2 months. In this post, we explored making a tasty sausage rice skillet. You learned about key ingredients and how to customize your dish. We discussed cooking techniques, tips for perfect rice, and alternatives for different diets. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh. Now, you can enjoy this meal anytime. Remember, cooking is all about creativity and fun. Try new things and make it your own!

Sausage & Veggie Rice Skillet

A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish featuring Italian sausage, rice, and colorful vegetables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 450 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, casings removed)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 whole bell pepper (red or yellow), diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • to taste fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet, add the Italian sausage to the center, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks (approximately 5-7 minutes).
  • Once the sausage is cooked through, mix in the smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
  • Stir in the uncooked rice, allowing it to toast slightly for about 2 minutes while stirring occasionally.
  • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
  • Add the frozen peas to the skillet, stir to combine, and cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.
  • Remove from heat, taste, and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference.
Keyword rice, sausage, skillet, vegetables

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