If you’ve ever craved a dish that’s pure comfort in a bowl, look no further than this Sausage and Rice Recipe. Smoky, savory sausage mingles with fluffy rice, sweet onions, and just the right hit of spice, turning weeknight dinner into something to look forward to every time. The combination of easy prep and bold flavors makes it a favorite for busy nights, casual gatherings, or anytime you want dinner on the table without a fuss but with plenty of personality.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish is all about simple ingredients that make a huge impact. Every choice here adds a layer of taste, color, or texture to ensure the Sausage and Rice Recipe comes out delicious and deeply satisfying.
- Olive oil: Adds a lovely richness and prevents the sausage and veggies from sticking.
- Smoked sausage: Sliced into rounds, it brings that irresistible, deep smoky flavor which anchors the whole dish.
- Onion: Diced for sweetness and a soft melt-in-your-mouth bite.
- Green bell pepper: Chopped to add a pop of freshness and color.
- Garlic: Minced for depth and that telltale aroma everyone loves.
- Long grain white rice: Uncooked, as it soaks up the flavors beautifully during cooking.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory goodness and ensures perfect texture.
- Paprika: Brings a warm, subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with sausage.
- Dried thyme: Adds herby notes that balance the richness of the dish.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning every bite just right.
- Black pepper: A little pepper goes a long way in boosting the flavor profile.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Use this to add a touch of gentle heat, or leave it out for a milder version.
- Frozen peas (optional): Stirred in at the end for a burst of color and sweetness—great for picky eaters, too.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: A fresh, green finish that makes every plate look inviting.
How to Make Sausage and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add your sausage slices. Let them sizzle undisturbed for a few minutes to get that golden, caramelized crust that packs in flavor. Stir occasionally and continue to cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, until they’re nicely browned. Transfer the sausage to a plate—resist snacking if you can!—and keep the flavorful oil in the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out, trust me!), toss in the diced onion and chopped green bell pepper. Give them a good stir and let them soften for about 4 to 5 minutes, until the onion turns translucent and the pepper smells sweet and fresh. Add the minced garlic, stirring constantly for 30 seconds—just long enough to release that heavenly aroma without burning it.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Pour in the uncooked rice straight into your veggie mixture, tossing it to coat the grains in all that oil and flavor. Cooking the rice for just a minute or two at this stage helps keep it fluffy and single, not clumpy, when it’s done.
Step 4: Simmer Everything Together
Add the chicken broth to the skillet and sprinkle in paprika, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you’re in the mood for some heat. Give everything a gentle stir, then bring it to a boil. As soon as it’s bubbling, lower the heat, cover your skillet, and let it simmer away for 18 to 20 minutes. Patience is key here—resist the urge to peek too often so the steam can work its magic on the rice.
Step 5: Finish with Sausage and Peas
Once the rice has soaked up all the liquid and is fluffily perfect, return your browned sausage to the skillet. If you’re adding peas, toss them in now. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the sausage heats through and the peas are bright green. Finish with a generous sprinkle of chopped parsley for that final fresh touch.
How to Serve Sausage and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle loads of fresh, chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and a little lift in flavor. If you’re feeling playful, a tiny swirl of hot sauce or a wedge of lemon on the side can bring an extra dimension that surprises and delights.
Side Dishes
This Sausage and Rice Recipe is wonderful all by itself, but it also shines alongside a simple green salad or steamed broccoli for extra crunch and balance. If your crowd loves bread, a crusty baguette or buttered rolls are fantastic for soaking up any leftover juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish family-style in a big, colorful bowl, or portion it into small ramekins for a party. For a bit of extra dazzle, top each plate with a perfectly runny fried egg or a sprinkle of shredded cheese—the possibilities are only limited by your imagination!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Sausage and Rice Recipe (which is rare in my house), scoop them into an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to three days, making them perfect for easy lunches or next-day dinners.
Freezing
This dish also freezes beautifully! Portion your cooled Sausage and Rice Recipe into individual containers and freeze them for up to two months. When you’re ready for a homemade, heat-and-eat meal, you’ll be so glad you did.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over the rice to bring back some moisture. Warm it in the microwave, covered with a damp paper towel, or in a skillet over medium heat, stirring gently and adding more broth if needed. It’ll taste just as wonderful the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice takes a bit longer to cook and needs a splash more broth, but it still soaks up all those delicious flavors and makes the dish heartier.
Which type Main Course
This recipe is flexible—smoked sausage is classic, but feel free to swap in andouille for a spicy kick or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. Each version brings its own unique flavor to the Sausage and Rice Recipe.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can! Substitute a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still get that deep, satisfying flavor with just a few plant-powered swaps.
What other vegetables can I add?
Just about any quick-cooking veggie works here: try chopped spinach, diced carrots, or even corn. Add them toward the end of cooking for a fun twist on this classic Sausage and Rice Recipe.
How can I make this less spicy?
Omit the cayenne pepper or swap it for sweet paprika if you prefer a milder Sausage and Rice Recipe. You can also use a sweet or mild-flavored sausage to keep the heat in check.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a tried-and-true crowd-pleaser, this Sausage and Rice Recipe is bound to make its way onto your regular dinner rotation. It’s easy, hearty, and loaded with flavor that tastes like home. Give it a go—you’ll discover why it’s a favorite every single time you make it!
Print
Sausage and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Sausage and Rice Recipe is a flavorful one-pot meal that combines smoked sausage with tender rice and a variety of savory seasonings. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups chicken broth
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Optional:
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet, brown the sliced sausage, and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Cook Rice: Add rice, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until rice is cooked.
- Combine and Garnish: Return sausage to the skillet, add peas if using, and heat through. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, try using andouille or spicy sausage.
- You can substitute brown rice, but adjust cook time and liquid.
- To make it a one-pot meal, add veggies toward the end of cooking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 980mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
