Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Flavor-Packed: Smoky sausage, sautéed peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce make every bite irresistible.
Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies, spice it up, or add extra protein.
Comforting & Filling: The combination of rice, sausage, and veggies is a complete meal on its own.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 1/4 cups white rice
12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 small white onion, quartered and sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon kosher sea salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
5 tablespoons tomato paste
3/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 1/2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley

Directions

Cook the rice: Prepare the rice according to package instructions, or cook it in chicken broth for added flavor. Set aside.
Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add sausage slices and cook until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the veggies: In the same skillet, sauté bell peppers and onion for 4-5 minutes. Add garlic, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute.
Make the sauce: Reduce heat, add tomato paste, chicken broth, paprika, and cayenne. Stir and simmer for 1 minute until thickened.
Combine everything: Add cooked rice, remaining chicken broth, sausage, and veggies to the skillet. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat to meld the flavors.
Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Swap the sausage for andouille, kielbasa, or chorizo.
Add more veggies like zucchini or spinach.
Stir in shredded cheese for a creamy finish.
Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, try andouille, kielbasa, chorizo, or even chicken sausage for a lighter option.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

3. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, add more cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

4. What other veggies can I add?

Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would be great additions.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

6. How can I make this dish lower in carbs?

Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb version.

7. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

8. Can I add cheese to this dish?

Yes, stir in some shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese at the end for a creamy finish.

9. How do I store this dish for meal prep?

Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.

10. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Sausage and Rice Skillet is a quick, flavorful meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its customizable ingredients, minimal cleanup, and comforting flavors, it’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. Whether for a family dinner or meal prep, this recipe delivers a satisfying meal every time.