Sausage and Rice Skillet

This Sausage and Rice Skillet is the ultimate one-pan dinner—quick, hearty, and packed with flavor. With savory sausage, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables, it’s a recipe that delivers on both taste and convenience. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a comforting meal with minimal cleanup.

Chef’s Tips

• Keep it Covered: To ensure perfectly cooked rice, keep the skillet covered while it simmers. This traps steam, allowing the rice to cook evenly and absorb all the flavors.
• Brown the Sausage: Sauté the sausage until browned to maximize its flavor. The browned bits at the bottom of the pan add depth to the dish.
• Pre-Cut Veggies: Save time by prepping the vegetables in advance or using pre-chopped options.
• Add Spice: For extra heat, stir in red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or hot sauce. Spicy sausage is another great option.
• Check Sausage Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the sausage reaches an internal temperature of 155–165°F (68–74°C) for safety.

Ingredients

• 6 Italian sausages: Choose mild, spicy, or turkey sausage based on your preference. Turkey kielbasa works for a lighter version.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Enhances the flavors and prevents sticking during cooking.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic base to the dish.
• 2 tbsp minced garlic: Fresh garlic brings bold, savory flavor.
• 1 ½ cups instant white rice: Cooks quickly, making this a time-saving meal. Regular rice can be used with adjusted cooking times.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and richness to the rice. Use low-sodium broth to control salt.
• ½ cup yellow bell pepper, diced: Bright and sweet, it complements the savory elements.
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced: Adds color and a subtle sweetness.
• 3 tbsp soy sauce: Provides umami and seasoning. Low-sodium soy sauce is a great option.
• 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning: A blend of sesame seeds, garlic, onion, and salt for added flavor.
• ½ tsp pepper: Adjust to taste.
• ½ tsp salt: Optional, depending on the saltiness of your broth and soy sauce.

Substitutions

• Sausage: Swap Italian sausage for turkey kielbasa, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option.
• Rice: Use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier twist. Adjust liquid and cooking time accordingly.
• Broth: Vegetable or beef broth works as a great alternative to chicken broth.
• Vegetables: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli for more variety and nutrition.

Instructions

1. Prepare the skillet: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
2. Cook the sausage: Place the sausages in the skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally, until fully cooked and browned. Remove the sausages from the skillet, let them cool slightly, and slice into bite-sized pieces.

3. Sautee the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sautee for 6–8 minutes until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender.
4. Combine ingredients: Return the sliced sausage to the skillet. Add the rice, chicken broth, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed throughout the skillet.

5. Cook the rice: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for 5–10 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Fluff and serve: Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve warm, paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

FAQs

This Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and endlessly customizable. It’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation!