If you’re looking for comfort food that combines savory flavors, minimal cleanup, and a short cooking time, this Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet ticks all the boxes. I made this just last night, and I couldn’t get over the blend of hearty sausage, fluffy rice, and flavorful veggies.
This dish has become a family-favorite because of how easy it is to make and how delicious it tastes. Best of all? You only need one skillet. You can also try this comforting marry me chicken soup recipe to enhance the taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Whip Up This Flavorful Dish
Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of taste and texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
A neutral base for cooking the sausage and veggies without adding unnecessary flavor. - 1 pound ground pork sausage or sausage of your choice
Use seasoned sausage for an instant flavor boost or mild sausage if you prefer a blank slate for seasoning. - 1/2 cup chopped onion
Adds a sweet and aromatic depth to the dish. - 1 bell pepper (any color), seeded and diced
Sweet, crunchy, and colorful, bell peppers bring both texture and flavor. - 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh garlic elevates every bite with savory notes. - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Balances the richness of the sausage and gives a Mediterranean vibe. - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, or adjust to taste)
For a gentle kick of spice that warms up the dish. - Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
Always season as you cook to enhance flavors. - 1 cup Spanish rice or any short-grain rice
Short-grain rice absorbs the spices and broth, creating a comforting texture. - 2 cups chicken broth
Simmering the rice in broth adds a savory backbone to the dish. - 15-ounce can diced tomatoes
Adds juiciness and a hint of tanginess. - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
For a fresh finish that brightens the entire skillet.
Note: This recipe serves 4 hearty portions. Adjust the ingredient amounts if you’re planning for a larger crowd.
Add Your Twist! Recipe Variations to Try
Not a fan of following the same recipe twice? Check out these easy adaptations:
- Make it dairy-free: Opt for seasoned olive oil drizzles as garnish instead of cheese.
- Low-carb option: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
- Extra veggies: Toss in mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach to pack more nutrients.
- Different sausage: Experiment with spicy chorizo, turkey sausage, or even plant-based sausage for varied flavors.
If you love hearty casseroles, also check out this Mashed Potato Casserole with Crispy Chicken for another comfort food favorite!
Cooking Time Breakdown
Get ready to enjoy your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet in under 40 minutes!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need
Simplify your cooking by gathering these basic tools before you start:
- Large high-sided skillet
For even cooking and plenty of space for all the ingredients. - Wooden spatula or spoon
Perfect for breaking up the sausage and stirring the ingredients together. - Chef’s knife
For chopping veggies efficiently. - Cutting board
To prepare the vegetables safely and quickly.
How to Make Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
Cooking this dish is easy and fun. Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious skillet meal in no time!
Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook thoroughly until browned, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. This ensures evenly cooked, flavorful bites in every spoonful.
Sauté the Vegetables
Next, stir in the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes until the veggies soften and release their aroma. The garlic will infuse the oil, and the onions will start caramelizing, which lays the foundation for your savory dish.
Build the Flavor Profile
Add the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground pepper. Stir everything together, so the vegetables and sausage are well-coated in these fragrant seasonings.
Add Rice and Liquid
Stir the rice directly into the skillet and toast it for about 30 seconds to amplify its nutty notes. Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes. Scrape up any browned bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom—that’s where loads of flavor hide!
Simmer It to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the rice doesn’t stick, and cook until the rice is tender and all liquids are absorbed.
Serve It Up
Once the skillet is done cooking, remove it from the heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley (if desired), and serve warm.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Even Better
I’ve made this recipe a few times, and here are some tips that’ll take it to the next level:
- Toast your rice for 1-2 minutes before adding the broth for an extra nutty flavor.
- Use fresh ingredients like freshly diced tomatoes instead of canned if you have time.
- De-glaze your skillet with a splash of wine before adding the broth for extra complexity.
- Season at every step to ensure balanced flavors throughout the dish.
How to Serve Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
Presentation matters! Here’s how to elevate this dish at the dinner table:
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a handful of grated Parmesan on top for a gourmet look.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad.
- Use colorful serving bowls to highlight the vibrant ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the breakdown of what’s in each serving of this dish:
- Calories: Approximately 320
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fat: 15g
How to Store the Dish
Keep this delicious dish fresh for longer with these storage tips:
- To store: Place leftovers in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To freeze: Transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
- To reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave. Add a splash of water or broth to restore its texture.
For more dinner ideas that the whole family can enjoy, explore these easy dinner recipes,
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is sure to win over your taste buds! Here’s why:
- Easy to make in just one skillet, which means less mess and less cleanup.
- Family-friendly flavors appeal to both kids and adults.
- Versatile for adding different ingredients and adjusting spices to taste.
- Quick cooking time makes it perfect for those busy weeknights.
- Affordable ingredients for a budget-friendly yet filling meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but remember that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Plan accordingly!
What’s the best sausage to use for this dish?
Choose a sausage that matches your flavor preference. Spicy chorizo works well for bold flavors, while mild pork sausage keeps it classic.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or diced mushrooms and increase the seasoning to compensate for the lack of sausage flavor.
What’s a good substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth, beef broth, or even water seasoned with a bouillon cube.