Ground Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

If you're looking for a quick, hearty, and delicious dinner, this Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect solution. It's a flavorful one-pan dish that's packed with protein, veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice. This easy meal is a great choice for weeknights when you need something fast but still want something that’s full of flavor and satisfying for the whole family. Best of all, you can customize it with whatever vegetables or spices you have on hand. Read on for the complete recipe, tips, and variations to make this your new go-to dinner!

this Recipe

---

What is Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?

Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a simple, one-pot meal that features ground sausage cooked with fragrant onions, garlic, and your choice of vegetables, all mixed with tender rice and seasoned to perfection. It’s the ultimate comfort food, blending the savory, robust flavors of ground sausage with the satisfying texture of rice. Everything cooks together in one skillet, making it easy to prepare and even easier to clean up. This meal is perfect for a busy weeknight or whenever you’re craving something warm and filling.

---

Ingredients List for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

To make this delicious one-skillet meal, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry and fridge. Here’s a full breakdown of what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• Ground Sausage: Choose your favorite variety—Italian, pork, or even turkey sausage, depending on your taste preference.
• White or Brown Rice: Use long-grain white rice or brown rice. You can also opt for jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant touch.
• Onion: Finely diced for a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Bell Peppers: Use red, green, yellow, or orange bell peppers for a pop of color and added sweetness.
• Garlic: Minced garlic adds an aromatic, savory flavor.
• Chicken Broth: For cooking the rice, adding extra flavor and moisture to the dish.
• Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes adds both flavor and moisture, making the dish even more delicious.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and sausage.

---

Ingredients List for Seasoning:

The seasoning is what makes this dish burst with flavor. Here are the key spices you’ll need:

• Paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the dish.
• Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a rich, earthy flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: To season to taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes (Optional): For a bit of heat if you like your dish spicy.

---

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is extremely versatile, so feel free to mix things up based on your preferences, dietary needs, or what you have available in your pantry. Here are a few ideas for variations and substitutions:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground sausage for a plant-based sausage or crumbled tofu. You could also add more veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Rice Alternatives: You can substitute the white or brown rice with quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• Different Sausage Options: Try chicken sausage or spicy chorizo for a different flavor profile. Turkey sausage is another great, leaner alternative.
• Extra Veggies: Add whatever veggies you have on hand. Carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, or peas work great in this dish.
• Cheesy Option: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt for a cheesy twist. Mozzarella or cheddar would be excellent choices.

---

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Cooking this ground sausage and rice skillet is a straightforward process. Here’s how to prepare it step-by-step:

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and slightly translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Sausage

Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the ground sausage. Break it up with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue to cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

Once the sausage is cooked, sprinkle in your paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to coat the sausage and vegetables with the spices, cooking for an additional minute to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Add Rice and Liquids

Pour the uncooked rice into the skillet and stir to coat it with the sausage and veggie mixture. Next, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is submerged in the liquid.

Step 5: Simmer the Skillet

Bring the mixture to a simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, but keep the lid on as much as possible to trap the steam and help the rice cook evenly.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Fluff the rice with a fork, and let it sit for 5 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for an added touch of flavor.

---

How to Cook Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sauté the vegetables until softened.
2. Brown the sausage until cooked through and crumbly.
3. Season the mixture with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Add rice and liquids to the skillet, stirring to combine.
5. Simmer covered for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff and serve with fresh herbs or cheese on top.

---

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few tips to make sure your dish comes out perfectly every time:

• Not Cooking the Sausage Properly: Make sure to brown the sausage completely before adding the rice. This helps develop flavor and ensures that the meat is fully cooked.
• Using Too Little Liquid: The rice needs enough liquid to cook through. Follow the recommended amount of broth, and add a little more if you’re using brown rice, which requires more time and moisture to cook.
• Burning the Rice: Stir occasionally during simmering to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the skillet. Keep the heat at a low simmer and resist the urge to stir too often to avoid disrupting the rice's cooking process.

---

Serving and Presentation Tips

When serving your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet, here are some ways to enhance both the flavor and presentation:

How to Serve Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Serve the dish straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style meal. Just bring the skillet to the table and let everyone help themselves.
• If you’re serving a crowd, portion the sausage and rice into individual bowls or plates and garnish each with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Add a wedge of lemon or lime on the side for a bright, zesty contrast to the rich flavors.

---

Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe Tips

• Make it Ahead: This dish is great for meal prep. You can make it ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave with a little splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist.
• Freeze for Later: This skillet meal freezes well. Portion it out into individual containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
• Add Some Heat: If you like spicy food, use hot Italian sausage or add a dash of hot sauce to the skillet for an extra kick.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook and will require more liquid. Plan to add about ½ cup more broth and cook for 10-15 minutes longer.

What kind of sausage should I use?

You can use any kind of ground sausage that you prefer—Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), pork sausage, or even turkey sausage. Each type will give the dish a slightly different flavor.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by using plant-based sausage or omitting the sausage altogether and adding more vegetables or legumes like chickpeas or black beans.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers will last for about 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave.

---

Conclusion

This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity, flavor, and convenience. It’s a one-pan meal that’s easy to make, easy to customize, and sure to satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option that you can reheat throughout the week, this recipe is a keeper. Plus, with the rich flavors of sausage, tender rice, and a blend of veggies, it’s sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals. Enjoy this hearty and delicious dish, and don’t be afraid to experiment with your own variations!

Print