If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with hearty flavors and comes together in just one pan, then you’re going to fall in love with the Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe. This rustic yet vibrant skillet meal combines savory sausage, tender rice, and colorful veggies, making for the perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on comfort or taste. Each bite offers a satisfying blend of spices, textures, and aromas that feels like a warm hug on a plate, and best of all, cleanup is a breeze since everything cooks in a single skillet.

Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe truly shine. Each component is simple yet crucial, bringing its own note of flavor, texture, or color that blends into a harmonious and satisfying dish.

1 lb sausage: Choose Italian or your favorite sausage variety for a rich and savory base.
1 cup long-grain white rice: Provides a fluffy texture that soaks up the delicious broth perfectly.
2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture, infusing the rice with savory goodness.
1 medium onion, chopped: Brings a natural sweetness and slight crunch to balance the sausage.
1 bell pepper, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a subtle sweetness that brightens the dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Offers aromatic warmth that elevates the flavor complexity.
1/2 teaspoon paprika: Introduces a gentle smokiness and a hint of spice.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal note to round out the flavor profile.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to bring all the flavors together.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing and developing those caramelized flavors.
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional): A pop of green and a touch of sweetness to finish the dish.
Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a burst of freshness and visual appeal.

How to Make Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sausage, breaking it into bite-sized pieces as it cooks. This step is key for developing a rich, caramelized crust that enhances every bite. Cook the sausage for about 6-8 minutes until it’s fully browned and cooked through. Once ready, scoop the sausage out and set it aside, leaving those savory drippings in the pan to flavor the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

With the same skillet still warm and flavorful, toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté these for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften slightly, releasing their sweetness and aroma. This simple step elevates the flavor base and adds a lovely mix of texture and color.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Next, stir in the long-grain white rice, making sure to coat each grain in the sausage juices and sautéed veggies. This toasting step not only prevents the rice from sticking but also builds a wonderful nutty flavor that will carry through the entire dish.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to distribute the seasonings evenly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook undisturbed for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed, creating a beautifully cohesive meal.

Step 5: Finish with Peas and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the frozen peas if you’re using them. Cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes to warm the peas through and add a fresh burst of green to the dish. Finally, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a bright, herbaceous finish before serving.

How to Serve Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a go-to garnish because it adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that cuts through the richness of the sausage. You can also try a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra flavor boost.

Side Dishes

This skillet stands wonderfully on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables can add balance and texture to your meal. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also make a comforting accompaniment.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the sausage and rice skillet in individual mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, restaurant-worthy presentation. Alternatively, spoon the mixture into hollowed bell peppers for a colorful and fun twist that doubles as an edible bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next meal just as tasty.

Freezing

This Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth if the rice seems dry. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through for even warming.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to use spicy chorizo, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage alternative. Each will bring its own unique flavor, so feel free to experiment.

Is it okay to use brown rice instead of white rice?

You can, but keep in mind brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly, and you may need to simmer the dish an extra 10-15 minutes.

Can I make the dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to use gluten-free sausage and chicken broth to avoid any hidden gluten.

What if I don’t have fresh parsley for garnish?

Fresh parsley really brightens the dish, but you can substitute with chopped fresh cilantro, chives, or even a pinch of dried herbs if needed.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to boost the veggie content and add extra texture and flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you want a meal that’s as simple to make as it is satisfying to eat, the Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe should be your next kitchen adventure. It’s a dish that welcomes you with comforting aromas, tastes incredible straight from the pan, and makes for easy leftovers. Give it a try—you won’t regret having this flavorful, no-fuss recipe in your dinner rotation.

Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal Recipe

4 from 56 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 39 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Sausage and Rice Skillet is a delicious, flavorful one-pan meal that combines savory sausage, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables. Perfect for a quick and hearty dinner, this recipe uses simple ingredients and easy steps to deliver a comforting and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Sausage and Rice Skillet Ingredients

1 lb (450g) sausage (Italian sausage or your preferred variety)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add Rice: Add the rice to the skillet, stirring it to coat it in the sausage and vegetable mixture.
Combine Seasonings and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and add the paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Simmer: Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Add Peas: Stir in frozen peas, if using, and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.