Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here from Chef Maniac! There are some dishes that just click – they’re easy, they’re flavorful, and they magically come together in a single pan. That’s exactly what you’ll find with Skillet Sausage ‘N’ Rice. This recipe is a true kitchen hero, delivering a hearty, comforting meal packed with savory sausage, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables, all cooked in one glorious skillet. It’s the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without a mountain of dishes.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely adore Skillet Sausage ‘N’ Rice for its sheer simplicity and incredible payoff. It’s a complete meal that cooks in one pan, making cleanup practically non-existent. The combination of smoky sausage, perfectly cooked rice, and colorful veggies creates a balanced and incredibly flavorful dish that feels like it took hours, but actually comes together in under 30 minutes of active cooking. It’s budget-friendly, endlessly customizable, and consistently a family favorite. This dish truly embodies delicious, fuss-free home cooking.

List of Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing Skillet Sausage ‘N’ Rice:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa, Andouille, or pre-cooked chicken sausage), sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Swaps and Notes

• Sausage: Kielbasa is a classic choice for its mild smokiness. Andouille will add a nice kick. Feel free to use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option. For vegetarians, use a plant-based sausage.
• Rice: Long-grain white rice works best here. Brown rice will require more liquid and a longer cooking time.
• Vegetables: Swap the bell pepper for red or yellow bell pepper, or add in other quick-cooking veggies like corn (add with tomatoes), peas (add in the last 5 minutes of cooking), or even mushrooms.
• Broth: Chicken broth adds great flavor, but vegetable broth or even water can be used.
• Seasoning: Adjust the thyme and smoked paprika to your taste. A pinch of cayenne pepper can be added with the garlic for extra heat.

List of Steps for the Recipe

1. Brown the Sausage: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven with a lid, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely browned and slightly crispy. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
2. Sauté Aromatics & Veggies: Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the same skillet. Cook over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Rice & Liquids: Stir the uncooked rice into the skillet with the vegetables, making sure it’s coated in any residual oil/fat. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Add the dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to combine, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed.
4. Simmer & Cook: Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often during this time, as steam is crucial for cooking the rice.
5. Rest & Serve: Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the steam to finish cooking the rice and distribute moisture. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot straight from the skillet.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Lift the Lid: Resist the temptation to peek while the rice is simmering. The trapped steam is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
• Brown the Sausage Well: A good sear on the sausage adds immense flavor to the entire dish.
• Rinse Rice (Optional but Recommended): Rinsing the rice before adding it can help prevent it from becoming too sticky, though for a one-pan dish, sometimes the starch helps thicken the sauce.
• Adjust Liquid if Needed: If your rice isn’t quite tender after 20 minutes, or if the dish seems too dry, add a splash (about 1/4 cup) more hot broth, stir, cover, and cook for a few more minutes.
• Use a Large Skillet: Make sure your skillet is large and deep enough to accommodate all ingredients and allow the rice to cook properly.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Skillet Sausage ‘N’ Rice is a complete meal, but it pairs wonderfully with:

• Simple Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty bread can be nice for soaking up any remaining juices.
• Cornbread: For a truly Southern touch, a side of warm cornbread would be perfect.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Leftovers of Skillet Sausage ‘N’ Rice are fantastic! Store any cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to re-moisten the rice, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat in the microwave. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the ease and comfort of this Skillet Sausage ‘N’ Rice, you’ll definitely want to explore some of my other favorite one-pan wonders and hearty meals:

• For a quick dinner packed with Southern goodness, my Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage is a go-to.
• If you’re craving some deep, comforting Southern flavors, my Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo is an absolute must-try.
• For another fantastic one-pan dinner that’s incredibly convenient and always a hit, my Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is a lifesaver.
• And if you’re looking for ultimate comfort food made fast, don’t miss my Instant Pot Lasagna.
• Sometimes, all you need is a classic done right, so don’t forget my foolproof Classic Spaghetti Recipe with Homemade Sauce.

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Final Thoughts

Skillet Sausage ‘N’ Rice is the epitome of smart, satisfying home cooking. It’s a flavorful, complete meal that asks for minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort. Give it a try – you’ll be amazed at how easily such a delicious dish comes together in just one pan!

What are your favorite one-pan wonders for busy weeknights? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more delicious, easy recipes that simplify your life, be sure to follow Chef Maniac.