Smoked Sausage and Rice is one of those cozy, fuss-free dishes that feels like a hug on a plate. Every bite is bursting with savory sausage flavor, tender vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice—all layered with just enough spice to keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re gathering with family or just need a quick weeknight fix, this recipe gives you a hearty, satisfying meal with minimal effort and lots of flair.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in bringing depth, warmth, and color to this recipe. Smoked Sausage and Rice shines because of its balance—each item, from the veggies to the seasonings, is truly essential for flavor and texture.
- Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, olive oil helps everything cook evenly while adding subtle richness.
- Smoked sausage (14 ounces): Sliced into rounds, this protein packs big smoky flavor that infuses the whole dish.
- Onion (1 small, diced): For sweet savoriness and a backbone of aromatic depth.
- Green bell pepper (diced): Provides bright crunch and a pop of color for both taste and looks.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A classic, aromatic ingredient that brings earthy complexity.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): This spice delivers gentle, smoky warmth and lovely color.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Balances the overall flavor and adds just a hint of heat.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing all of the flavors together.
- Long-grain white rice (1 cup): The heart of the dish—it soaks up all those wonderful juices.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Infuses the rice with savory richness and helps everything simmer just right.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces, drained): Adds juiciness, acidity, and a little sweetness for balance.
- Fresh parsley (optional, 2 tablespoons, chopped): For a touch of freshness and bright green garnish to finish.
How to Make Smoked Sausage and Rice
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and let it sizzle for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring every so often until each round is gloriously browned. This caramelization adds incredible depth and ensures the sausage is perfectly savory. Once browned, set the sausage aside on a plate—you’ll add it back later to let all those flavors mingle.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pan with all those tasty sausage drippings left behind, toss in your diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook these together for 3 to 4 minutes, just until they start to soften and release their sweetness. This layer sets the foundation for every mouthful of Smoked Sausage and Rice.
Step 3: Add Aromatics and Seasonings
Now, sprinkle in the minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it cook for about a minute. You’ll notice a fragrant perfume rising from the pan—this is when you know those spices and aromatics are perfectly blooming.
Step 4: Stir In the Rice
Pour your uncooked long-grain white rice into the skillet, stirring to coat every grain with the oil, vegetables, and spices. This quick step ensures your rice will soak up maximum flavor during cooking, making the final dish extra delicious.
Step 5: Add Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and the drained diced tomatoes, stirring everything to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the rice simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is perfectly tender.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Return the browned sausage to the skillet and stir it in well. Let everything cook together for another 2 to 3 minutes, just until the sausage is heated through. For a final flourish, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley right before serving for extra color and brightness.
How to Serve Smoked Sausage and Rice
Garnishes
Smoked Sausage and Rice loves a little extra color and freshness on top. A shower of chopped fresh parsley or even some thinly sliced green onions really brings a lovely, garden-fresh touch. For a slight kick, try a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, or zest up the whole dish with a little squeeze of lemon.
Side Dishes
This dish is plenty hearty on its own, but for a larger spread, simple sides shine brightest. Think crisp green salads with a tangy vinaigrette, sautéed greens, roasted vegetables, or warm cornbread. Each complements the main event without overpowering those rich, smoky flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Get playful with how you serve your Smoked Sausage and Rice! Spoon it into individual bowls for a cozy, family-style dinner, or pile it high on a platter for a buffet feast. You can even tuck leftovers into bell pepper halves and bake until tender for a colorful twist. If you’re feeling festive, top with a few fried eggs—brunch just got a serious upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Smoked Sausage and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s one of those magical dishes that honestly tastes even better the next day as all the flavors meld together. Just be sure to let it cool slightly before storing to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for later, this recipe freezes beautifully! Allow the rice and sausage to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
The best way to reheat Smoked Sausage and Rice is gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if it seems dry. You can also use the microwave—just cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While smoked sausage brings classic flavor, you can substitute with turkey sausage, beef sausage, or even andouille if you want a bit more spice. Just choose a pre-cooked sausage for the best results and easy preparation.
What type of rice works best for this dish?
Long-grain white rice is classic for Smoked Sausage and Rice, as it cooks up fluffy and absorbs the savory broth well. Brown rice can work, too—just extend the cooking time and add a splash more broth to ensure it cooks through properly.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a spicier kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes along with the other spices. You can also choose a spicy sausage variety if you’re really looking to turn up the heat!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as your smoked sausage and chicken broth are certified gluten-free, this entire recipe fits a gluten-free diet. Always double-check labels to be sure, but Smoked Sausage and Rice is naturally friendly for those avoiding gluten.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Definitely. Just use a larger pot or Dutch oven to accommodate the extra volume, and keep an eye on liquid ratios. You may need to increase the simmering time slightly, but this recipe scales up easily for potlucks or family gatherings.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dish that combines robust flavor, comfort, and weeknight ease, Smoked Sausage and Rice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Each forkful is a celebration of smoky sausage and tender rice, and it couldn’t be simpler to make. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try, and let it become a new favorite at your table!
Print
Smoked 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: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Smoked Sausage and Rice dish is a flavorful one-pot meal that is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. With smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic spices, this easy stovetop recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 green bell pepper (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (drained)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet, brown the sliced smoked sausage for 5–7 minutes, then set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, cook diced onion and bell pepper until softened. Add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper, cook until fragrant.
- Cook Rice: Stir in rice, pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Combine and Serve: Return sausage to skillet, heat through. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can use turkey or beef smoked sausage for a lighter option.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- This dish also works well with brown rice—just increase the cooking time and broth slightly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1¼ cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
