Spicy Sausage and Rice Skillet

The Spicy Sausage and Rice Skillet is a flavorful, satisfying one-pan meal that brings together smoky sausage, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables, all cooked in a rich, spiced broth. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a complete, hearty dinner without the need for multiple pots or pans.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners

• Full of bold, smoky, and spicy flavors

• One-skillet cleanup makes it convenient

• Customizable with your favorite sausage or vegetables

• A complete meal with protein, grains, and vegetables in one pan

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Smoked sausage

• Olive oil

• Red bell pepper

• Green bell pepper

• Onion

• Garlic

• Long-grain white rice

• Chicken broth

• Diced tomatoes

• Paprika

• Cayenne pepper

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Slice the smoked sausage into ¼-inch rounds. Dice the bell peppers and onion, and mince the garlic.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, add the diced peppers and onion. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

4. Return the sausage to the skillet. Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.

5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

6. Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use spicy andouille, chorizo, or turkey sausage for different flavors

• Add vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach

• Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa (adjust liquid and cooking time)

• Sprinkle with shredded cheese and let melt before serving

• Use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for extra smokiness

Storage/Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

• To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, or microwave with a damp paper towel to retain moisture

FAQs

How spicy is this recipe?

The spiciness depends on the type of sausage and amount of cayenne pepper used. You can easily adjust both to suit your taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it stores well and can be reheated for quick meals later in the week.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

As long as your sausage and chicken broth are gluten-free, the recipe itself contains no gluten.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and possibly the amount of liquid, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What other vegetables work well in this skillet?

Zucchini, mushrooms, corn, or spinach can be added or swapped in.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, replace the sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth.

Does the rice need to be pre-cooked?

No, the rice cooks in the skillet with the broth and other ingredients, absorbing all the flavors.

What type of skillet is best?

A large, deep skillet with a lid works best. Cast iron or non-stick both work well.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended, as rice can become mushy when thawed and reheated.

How can I make this dish milder?

Use a mild sausage and reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.

Conclusion

The Spicy Sausage and Rice Skillet is a perfect go-to meal for when you need something fast, flavorful, and filling. With its rich blend of smoky sausage, aromatic spices, and tender rice, this dish brings comfort and convenience together in a single skillet. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to make again and again.