Ground Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

Looking for a quick, delicious, and hearty dinner that the whole family will love? This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is the perfect choice! With savory ground sausage, fluffy rice, and a medley of vegetables, all cooked in a single skillet, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or prepping meals for the week, this one-pan dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. Keep reading for the full recipe, step-by-step instructions, and some great tips to make it your own!

What Is Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?

Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal that features flavorful ground sausage, perfectly cooked rice, and vegetables all combined in a rich and savory broth. It’s a balanced dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with protein, carbs, and veggies. The best part? It’s highly customizable! You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it an ideal recipe for busy weeknights when you need something quick and filling.

Ingredients List for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet:

• 1 lb (450g) ground sausage – You can use mild, sweet, or spicy sausage depending on your taste.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables.
• 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – Red, green, or yellow for color and flavor.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – For an extra boost of flavor.
• 1 cup white rice – Long-grain white rice works best, but you can also use brown rice for a healthier option (adjust cooking time as needed).
• 2 cups chicken broth – Provides flavor and helps cook the rice.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Adds moisture and acidity to balance the sausage's richness.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A mix of dried herbs to enhance the flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Season the dish as needed.
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional) – For a creamy, cheesy finish.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional) – Adds a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Additional Ingredients for Extra Flavor:

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – For a smoky depth of flavor.
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn – For added texture and sweetness.
• Red pepper flakes – To add a spicy kick if you like heat.

Substitutions and Variations

This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some substitutions and variations to make it your own:

• Sausage Options: Use Italian sausage, chorizo, or even turkey sausage for different flavor profiles. You can also use plant-based sausage to make it vegetarian.
• Rice Options: Substitute white rice with brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa. Keep in mind that different grains may require longer cooking times or additional broth.
• Vegetables: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, zucchini, mushrooms, or broccoli to increase the nutritional value of the dish.
• Cheese Variations: While cheddar is great, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even Parmesan for a different cheesy flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: For a low-carb version, swap the rice with cauliflower rice. You’ll need less liquid and a shorter cooking time for this variation.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process for this Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet. Follow these simple steps to get dinner on the table in no time.

1. Cook the Ground Sausage:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground sausage. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If your sausage is particularly fatty, drain any excess grease from the pan, leaving a little bit for flavor.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

Push the sausage to one side of the skillet and add the olive oil. Add the diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

3. Add the Rice and Seasonings:

Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to coat the rice with the seasonings and sausage flavors.

4. Pour in the Broth:

Add the chicken broth to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid.

5. Add Extra Veggies (Optional):

If you’re adding frozen peas, corn, or any other quick-cooking vegetables, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They will heat through and cook with the residual heat from the dish.

6. Add Cheese (Optional):

If you’re adding shredded cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the skillet once the rice is fully cooked. Cover the skillet again and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve:

Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

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

1. Brown the Sausage: Cook sausage in a skillet until fully browned.
2. Sauté Vegetables: Add onions, peppers, and garlic; sauté until softened.
3. Add Rice and Seasonings: Stir in rice, tomatoes, and seasonings.
4. Pour in Broth: Add broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
5. Simmer Until Rice is Cooked: Cover and simmer for 15-18 minutes.
6. Add Cheese and Veggies: Stir in any additional vegetables and cheese.
7. Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time, watch out for these common mistakes:

• Not Browning the Sausage: Make sure to fully brown the sausage before moving on to the next step. This develops flavor and creates a base for the dish.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Be mindful of the amount of broth. Adding too much can result in mushy rice. Stick to the recipe’s proportions and adjust only slightly depending on the type of rice you’re using.
• Underseasoning: Taste as you go! Sausage can be salty, but you’ll still need to adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and other spices to get a well-balanced flavor.
• Not Letting the Rice Cook Fully: Avoid uncovering the skillet too frequently while the rice is cooking, as this lets steam escape and can affect the texture of the rice.

Serving and Presentation Tips

This dish is hearty and comforting, but with a few simple touches, you can elevate its presentation:

How to Serve Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet:

• Family-Style: Serve it directly from the skillet at the table for a casual, rustic presentation. The one-pan nature of this meal makes it perfect for family dinners.
• Individual Plates: Spoon servings onto individual plates and garnish with parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese for a more formal presentation.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet:

• Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions adds a pop of color.
• Serve with a Side Salad: Pair this dish with a light, crisp side salad to balance the richness of the sausage and rice.
• Add Crunch: Serve with a side of crusty bread or breadsticks for an extra element of texture.

Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe Tips

• Use Leftovers: If you have leftover cooked rice, this dish comes together even faster. Just reduce the amount of broth and cook for less time.
• Double the Recipe: This dish scales easily, making it perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd. Simply double the ingredients and use a larger skillet.
• Meal Prep-Friendly: Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet stores well and can be reheated throughout the week. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a great make-ahead meal. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Absolutely! If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the amount of broth to about ½ cup, and add the rice after the sausage and vegetables have cooked. Heat everything together until warmed through.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use a gluten-free sausage and chicken broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I freeze Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What can I serve with Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?

This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs nicely with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of garlic bread.

Conclusion

Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect combination of hearty, comforting, and convenient. With savory sausage, flavorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice all in one pan, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal plan. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers on flavor, ease, and versatility. Try it today, and enjoy the deliciousness in every bite!

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