If you are looking for a hearty, satisfying dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Sausage and Rice Recipe is absolute comfort food gold. Combining smoky, savory sausage with tender rice and vibrant bell peppers, every bite bursts with flavor and texture. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests, bringing people together around the table with minimal fuss and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Sausage and Rice Recipe is all about simple ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each element plays a crucial role—from the smoky sausage that gives the dish its boldness, to the fresh vegetables that add color and sweetness, and the spices that bring everything alive with warmth.
- Olive oil: The perfect base for sautéing and infusing the dish with a subtle richness.
- Smoked sausage (1 pound, sliced into rounds): Adds smoky depth and satisfying protein to the dish.
- Medium onion (diced): Provides a savory sweetness that softens beautifully when cooked.
- Red bell pepper (diced): Brings a pop of vibrant color and a touch of natural sweetness.
- Green bell pepper (diced): Offers crunch and a slightly earthy brightness.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and complexity.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds sweet smokiness and depth.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Lends a fragrant herbaceous note that balances the spices.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Brings gentle heat and enhances overall flavor.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a touch of spicy kick.
- Long grain white rice (1 cup, uncooked): The tender, fluffy base of the dish that soaks up all the flavors.
- Chicken broth (2 1/4 cups): Ensures the rice cooks perfectly with a savory backdrop.
- Diced tomatoes (1 14.5-ounce can, undrained): Adds tangy brightness and moisture.
- Salt to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all other flavors.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A fresh, vibrant touch to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Sausage and Rice Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until it develops a rich, golden-brown crust, about 4 to 5 minutes. This step is crucial because browning the sausage unlocks those deep, smoky flavors that set the foundation for the entire dish. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan, toss in your diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté them for about 4 to 5 minutes, allowing their natural sweetness to soften and meld together. This not only adds incredible color but also layers of flavor that balance the richness of the sausage perfectly.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Spices
Next, stir in the minced garlic along with paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook this mixture for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. The spices bloom in the warm oil, releasing their fragrant aromas that will infuse the whole dish with warmth and subtle heat.
Step 4: Toast the Rice
Now, add the uncooked rice directly to the pan. Toast it for about one minute while stirring constantly. Toasting the rice before simmering helps give it a nuttier flavor and prevents the grains from sticking together, ensuring that your final dish has a wonderful texture.
Step 5: Combine and Simmer
Return the browned sausage to the pan, then pour in the chicken broth along with the undrained diced tomatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine all the ingredients evenly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the flavorful liquids.
Step 6: Rest and Fluff
Once the rice is cooked, remove the pan from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This little pause allows the steam to finish cooking the rice perfectly and helps achieve a fluffy, tender texture. Finish by fluffing the rice with a fork to separate the grains nicely before serving.
How to Serve Sausage and Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top brightens the dish and adds a lovely touch of color. For an extra layer of flavor, you might add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of thinly sliced green onions to provide a fresh contrast to the hearty sausage and rice.
Side Dishes
This Sausage and Rice Recipe shines as a complete meal, but it pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or buttery garlic bread. A side of sautéed greens such as spinach or kale brings a nutritious balance and a welcome bitterness that complements the richness of the sausage beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd or a festive touch, serve this dish in hollowed-out bell peppers or mini cast-iron skillets for personal portions. You could also turn leftovers into stuffed peppers, add a fried egg on top for brunch, or scoop it into warm tortillas for flavorful wraps that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sausage and Rice Recipe stores wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, making it ideal for quick next-day meals or packed lunches.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, this dish freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Alternatively, microwave on medium power, stirring occasionally, until warmed through and perfectly tasty as the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this Sausage and Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! Andouille, kielbasa, or your favorite smoked sausage all work beautifully. Just make sure to slice it evenly so it cooks through with the rice.
Is it possible to use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Brown rice will add a nuttier flavor and chewier texture, but remember it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, so adjust accordingly.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely. Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce when serving for a fiery kick tailored just for you.
What can I do if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water, though broth adds more depth of flavor, so keep that in mind if choosing water.
Is this Sausage and Rice Recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe, hearty option for those avoiding gluten.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage and Rice Recipe is one of those feel-good dishes that simply satisfies every time. With minimal effort and pantry staples, you create a vibrant, tasty meal that feels special and made with love. Go ahead and try it—you might just find your new favorite one-pot dinner to turn to on busy nights!
Print
Sausage and Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful sausage and rice dish made with smoked sausage, bell peppers, onions, and seasoned with paprika, oregano, and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. This one-pot meal is easy to prepare on the stovetop and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (undrained)
- Salt to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, dried oregano, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 1–2 minutes to release the flavors.
- Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pan and toast it for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Combine Sausage and Liquids: Return the browned sausage to the pan. Pour in chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir to combine thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Dish: Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and simmer for 20–25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- You can use andouille, kielbasa, or any smoked sausage of your choice.
- For a spicier version, increase the red pepper flakes or add hot sauce.
- Brown rice may be used, but will require a longer cooking time and additional broth.
