Savory Sausage Rice Skillet Recipe

Are you searching for a quick and flavorful meal that will delight the whole family? Look no further than this Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe! In just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious one-pan dish packed with smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice. This recipe is a game-changer when you need something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

I stumbled upon this Sausage and Rice Skillet creation during a week when I craved a change from our usual dinner routine. Surprisingly, even my picky eaters couldn’t resist this dish – the peppers were a hit, and seconds were requested! The key to elevating the flavors lies in browning the sausage to perfection, giving the whole meal a delicious depth that will have everyone asking for more.

Versatile and comforting, this skillet meal pairs perfectly with a side salad or some crusty bread. Experiment with different types of sausage and veggies to create unique variations. Plus, with its excellent reheatability and freezer-friendly nature, this dish is a meal prep dream. Say goodbye to mundane weeknight dinners and say hello to a satisfying and flavorful Sausage and Rice Skillet that will become a household favorite in no time!

Quick Benefits

• Quick and easy 30-minute meal for busy weeknights
• Kid-friendly recipe that even picky eaters enjoy
• Versatile ingredients – customize with different sausages and vegetables
• Great for meal prep – keeps well in the fridge and freezes beautifully

Why You’ll Love This Savory Sausage Rice Skillet Recipe Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table in just 30 minutes.
• Kid-approved: Even picky eaters will love this dish, as the flavors are so well-balanced that they won’t even notice the veggies.
• Versatile: You can customize this dish by using different types of sausage and vegetables, making it a go-to recipe with endless variations.
• Flavorful: Browning the sausage adds depth of flavor, creating a dish that tastes like it was cooked slowly and lovingly.
• Complete meal: A hearty and satisfying one-pan meal that can be served on its own or with a simple side like salad or bread.
• Leftover friendly: Keeps well in the fridge for several days and freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep and future dinners.

Ingredients for Savory Sausage Rice Skillet Recipe

Rice & Oil

• 1¼ cups white rice, uncooked
• 2 teaspoons olive oil

Protein & Vegetables

• ½ yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 12 oz package smoked sausage, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small white onion, quartered and sliced

Seasonings & Sauce

• ½ teaspoon kosher sea salt
• 1¼ cups low-sodium chicken broth, divided
• 5 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1½ tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Savory Sausage Rice Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Cook white rice in a small saucepan according to package instructions until tender and fluffy. Set aside.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and wait for it to shimmer before adding remaining ingredients.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Cook sliced sausage in a hot skillet for approximately 5 minutes, flipping to brown evenly. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and onion for 4-5 minutes until softened and slightly browned.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Cook minced garlic, salt, and pepper with the vegetables for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside with the sausage.

Step 6: Create the Sauce Base

Whisk tomato paste and ¾ cup chicken broth into the skillet. Simmer for 1 minute to enhance flavors.

Step 7: Add Spices

Mix the paprika and cayenne pepper into the tomato mixture until well combined to enhance the flavor.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Combine the cooked rice, browned sausage, sautéed vegetables, and remaining chicken broth in the skillet. Stir well and heat through.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

Take the mixture off the heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve right away while still hot for optimal flavor and texture.

Storage Tips

Once the sausage and rice skillet is prepared, it can be stored in the refrigerator for several days. To store the dish, place it in an airtight container and make sure to add a splash of chicken broth before reheating to prevent it from drying out. When ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat the skillet gently on the stovetop until heated through.

For longer storage, the sausage and rice skillet can also be frozen for up to a few months. To freeze, transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, making sure to remove any excess air to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat the frozen meal, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating it on the stovetop. The flavors will still be delicious and satisfying even after being frozen, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to make a healthier version of this dish, you can swap the smoked sausage for turkey or chicken sausage. These options still provide great flavor but with less fat and calories. You can also use brown rice instead of white rice for a higher fiber content and nuttier flavor.

To make this recipe vegetarian, you can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu seasoned with smoked paprika and additional spices for a similar smoky flavor. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure the sausage substitute is vegan-friendly.

If you’re looking to add more vegetables to this dish, feel free to experiment with different options such as mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach. These additions can enhance the nutritional value and add more variety to the flavors. Additionally, you can play around with different herbs and seasonings to customize the taste profile to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this delicious sausage and rice skillet, consider serving it in individual roasted bell pepper bowls. Cut the tops off the peppers, remove the seeds, and lightly roast them in the oven until slightly softened. Then, fill each pepper with a generous portion of the sausage and rice mixture, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve. This not only adds a beautiful touch to the dish but also enhances the flavors as the peppers infuse their sweetness into the filling.

For a fun and interactive serving idea, turn this skillet meal into a build-your-own-bowl bar. Set out bowls of toppings like shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, chopped scallions, and hot sauce. Allow each person to customize their sausage and rice bowl with their favorite toppings, creating a personalized and flavorful dining experience. This DIY approach is perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, adding a playful twist to the meal.

FAQs for Savory Sausage Rice Skillet Recipe

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice in this recipe. Keep in mind that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly or partially cook it before adding it to the skillet.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this dish vegetarian. It will alter the flavor slightly, but it’s a great option for those looking for a meat-free alternative.

How can I make this dish less spicy for my family?

If you want to make this dish less spicy, you can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper from the recipe. Adjust the amount of paprika to your taste preference as well. You can always add more seasoning at the end if needed.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage instead of smoked sausage in this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage instead of smoked sausage in this recipe. Just be mindful of the cooking time to avoid overcooking the sausage, as pre-cooked sausage just needs to be heated through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Sausage and Rice Skillet is truly a game-changer for busy weeknights when you need a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love. The combination of smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice all cooked together in one skillet creates a dish that is not only flavorful but also incredibly satisfying. The best part? It’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect go-to recipe for those hectic evenings.

Don’t be afraid to make this recipe your own by trying different types of sausage and vegetables to create new flavor combinations. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with your own twists, this Sausage and Rice Skillet is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So grab your skillet and get cooking – you won’t be disappointed with the results!