If you are on the lookout for a comforting, hearty meal that brings together bold flavors and wholesome ingredients in one pan, this Sausage and Rice Skillet with Vegetables and Spices Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant medley of savory sausage, tender rice, colorful vegetables, and a fragrant blend of spices that come together in a skillet for a quick and satisfying dinner. Every bite bursts with flavor and texture, creating a one-pot wonder that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and pantry-friendly, each playing an important role in making this dish stand out. Whether it’s the savory depth from the sausage, the comforting fluffiness of the rice, or the lively crunch and color from the vegetables and spices, every element adds something special.
- 1 pound sausage: Choose your favorite type, whether spicy or mild, to set the flavor base.
- 1 cup rice: Regular long-grain rice works beautifully for fluffy texture.
- 2 cups chicken broth: This adds moisture and rich flavor for perfectly cooked rice.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and complexity.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Offers a refreshing bite and vibrant color.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky layer that ties the dish together.
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme: A subtle herb that infuses earthiness.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides gentle heat and balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: A little kick for those who like it spicy.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing and bringing all ingredients together smoothly.
- 1/2 cup frozen peas: Adds sweetness and a pop of color at the end.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh garnish for brightness and herbaceous notes.
How to Make Sausage and Rice Skillet with Vegetables and Spices Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Let it brown and release those incredible aromas for about 5 to 7 minutes until cooked through.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Remove the sausage and set it aside, keeping the flavorful drippings in the pan. Toss in the chopped onion and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Then stir in the garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Next, add the chopped bell pepper and continue cooking until it softens slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes.
Step 3: Season and Toast the Rice
Sprinkle the paprika, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne pepper evenly over the veggies. Stir everything to coat the vegetables with spices. Add the rice to the pan and stir well to combine, giving it a light toast for 1 to 2 minutes to enhance the nutty flavor.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the pan bottom to loosen any delicious browned bits. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let the rice cook undisturbed for about 18 to 20 minutes, soaking up all the flavorful liquid until tender.
Step 5: Add Peas and Reheat Sausage
Once the rice is cooked, stir in frozen peas along with the cooked sausage. Cover again and allow it to sit for 5 minutes so the peas warm through and the sausage melds back into the dish perfectly.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Herbs
To finish, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top to add a delightful burst of freshness and a gorgeous pop of green color just before serving.
How to Serve Sausage and Rice Skillet with Vegetables and Spices Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance the dish with a bit more fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you like things extra indulgent. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This skillet is a complete meal on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp leafy green salad, crusty bread to soak up any juices, or simply steamed vegetables for an added crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this vibrant dish straight from the skillet for a rustic vibe, or plate it delicately with a garnish of fresh herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. For a fun twist, stuff it into roasted bell peppers for a colorful presentation at your next gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover sausage and rice skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping it chilled promptly preserves the fresh vegetable colors and spices’ intensity.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. When freezing, be sure to cool the dish completely to maintain the texture and flavor after thawing.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. Stir occasionally for even warming and to keep the sausage tender and the rice fluffy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use pork, chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based sausage. Each variation will bring a unique flavor while keeping the dish delicious.
What type of rice works best in this skillet?
Long-grain rice is preferred because it cooks up fluffy and separate. Avoid sticky rice varieties to maintain the texture balance in the dish.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Definitely! Increase the cayenne pepper or add a diced jalapeño when cooking the vegetables. Adjust the heat to your personal preference.
Is this dish gluten free?
Yes, this Sausage and Rice Skillet with Vegetables and Spices Recipe is naturally gluten free, just ensure your sausage and broth do not contain gluten additives.
Can I add other vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or even corn to complement the existing flavors and add your own twist.
Final Thoughts
I genuinely hope you try this delightful Sausage and Rice Skillet with Vegetables and Spices Recipe because it has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen for good reason. The simple ingredients, bold flavors, and easy preparation make it perfect for weeknights, yet tasty enough to impress family or friends. It’s a warm, nourishing meal you’ll want in your recipe rotation, serving up comfort and joy with every bite.
Print
Sausage and Rice Skillet with Vegetables and Spices Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 40m
- Total Time: 0h 50m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This flavorful and comforting sausage and rice dish combines savory sausage, aromatic vegetables, and tender rice cooked together in a skillet. Perfect for an easy weeknight meal, it features a blend of spices including paprika, thyme, and cayenne for a mild kick, balanced by fresh parsley and sweet peas for freshness.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 pound sausage
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Rice and Seasonings
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Additional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat to prepare for cooking the ingredients.
- Cook sausage: Add the sausage to the pan, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula as it cooks for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through.
- Set sausage aside: Remove the cooked sausage from the pan, leaving the drippings behind; this adds flavor to the next steps.
- Sauté onions: Add the chopped onion to the same pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
- Cook bell pepper: Add the chopped bell pepper and cook for another 3-4 minutes until it begins to soften.
- Add spices: Sprinkle in paprika, thyme, black pepper, and cayenne, stirring well to evenly coat the vegetables.
- Toast rice: Add the rice to the pan and stir to combine, letting it toast lightly for 1-2 minutes.
- Add broth: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan bottom for flavor.
- Simmer rice: Bring the mixture to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and broth absorbed.
- Add peas and sausage: Stir in frozen peas and the cooked sausage, then cover again.
- Heat through: Let the mixture sit covered for 5 minutes to warm the peas and sausage through.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top and serve hot.
Notes
- Use mild or spicy sausage depending on your flavor preference.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables.
- Ensure the rice is well covered by chicken broth for even cooking.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to make the dish more or less spicy.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated for up to 3 days.
