Ground Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

If you're searching for a quick, delicious, and easy-to-make dinner, you're in the right place! This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is a perfect one-pan meal that's packed with flavor, satisfying, and incredibly simple to put together. Whether you're cooking for your family or just looking for a dish that you can make in under 30 minutes, this recipe has got you covered. The combination of savory ground sausage, tender rice, and vibrant vegetables makes it a wholesome, comforting dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So, keep reading for all the details on how to make this savory meal from start to finish.

What is a Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?

A Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan dish that combines ground sausage, rice, vegetables, and seasonings to create a balanced, flavorful meal. This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can adapt it to your own preferences by changing up the ingredients or seasonings. It's the perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner because it’s simple to prepare and leaves minimal cleanup. With the sausage adding rich flavor and the rice providing a hearty base, this dish will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients List for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

To make this satisfying skillet meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb ground sausage: You can use pork sausage, Italian sausage, or a spicy sausage depending on your preference.
• 1 cup long-grain white rice: You can substitute this with brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
• 2 cups chicken broth: This will add more flavor to your rice and make it tender.
• 1 onion (chopped): Adds a nice base of flavor to the dish.
• 2 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic gives the dish a lovely aromatic flavor.
• 1 bell pepper (diced): Any color will work, but red or yellow peppers add a slight sweetness.
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): Adds a slight tang and moisture to the skillet.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: For that subtle smoky flavor.
• 1 teaspoon oregano: Dried oregano works well to add depth to the flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust the seasoning to your preference.
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn: Adds color and sweetness.
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional): Cheddar or mozzarella works well for a cheesy finish.
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Substitutions and Variations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can switch things up based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas for substitutions and variations:

• Sausage options: Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. You can use spicy Italian sausage for a little heat, chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even turkey sausage for a leaner version.
• Vegetarian version: Simply replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a veggie-packed version.
• Rice alternatives: You can replace white rice with brown rice, basmati, or even cauliflower rice if you're looking to cut down on carbs. Just be mindful that different types of rice may have different cooking times.
• Add beans: For a heartier dish, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or kidney beans to boost the protein and fiber content.
• Spice it up: If you like your dishes with a bit of heat, you can add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the mix.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients: Before you begin, make sure to have all of your ingredients prepped. Chop the onions and bell peppers, mince the garlic, and measure out your rice and broth.
2. Cook the sausage: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the onions and garlic: Once the sausage is cooked, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent.
4. Stir in the bell peppers: Add the diced bell pepper to the skillet and cook for another 3 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their flavors.
5. Add the rice: Once the vegetables have softened, stir in the rice. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, letting the rice lightly toast, which will help add extra flavor to the final dish.
6. Add the liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine. Add the smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Simmer the rice: Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Allow the rice to simmer and cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
8. Add the peas (or corn): In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas (or corn). This will ensure they heat through without getting too mushy.
9. Cheese it up (optional): If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the skillet during the last minute of cooking, then cover the skillet again to let the cheese melt.
10. Finish with fresh herbs: Once everything is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top for a burst of color and flavor.

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

1. Brown the sausage: Start by cooking the sausage until it’s fully browned, which ensures a rich, savory flavor base.
2. Cook the aromatics: Add onions, garlic, and peppers to build the dish’s flavor profile.
3. Toast the rice: Stir the rice into the skillet to toast it slightly. This adds a nutty flavor and helps keep the rice from becoming too sticky.
4. Add the liquids: The combination of chicken broth and diced tomatoes adds both flavor and moisture to cook the rice perfectly.
5. Simmer until done: Let everything simmer until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
6. Final touches: Add vegetables and cheese to finish off the dish with more texture, color, and richness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the rice: Make sure to keep an eye on the skillet to avoid mushy rice. Once the liquid is absorbed, check the rice for doneness and remove it from the heat.
• Not seasoning properly: Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Sausage can be salty, so be mindful of how much additional salt you add.
• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting the rice before adding liquid is crucial to building flavor.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A well-presented meal can make all the difference, and this Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is no exception. Here are a few ideas for serving and presenting the dish:

• Use a wide, shallow dish: Serve the meal in a wide, shallow bowl to allow the vibrant colors of the bell peppers, peas, and sausage to shine.
• Garnish generously: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and brightness.
• Serve with a wedge of lemon: A squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can add a refreshing touch that balances out the richness of the sausage.

How to Serve Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

Serve this dish piping hot straight from the skillet for a comforting family-style dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to round out the meal. It’s also great for meal prep – just portion it into individual containers, and you'll have lunches ready for the week.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Family-style: Serve the skillet directly on the table for a rustic, casual vibe.
• Individual servings: Plate portions in shallow bowls with a garnish of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese for an elegant touch.

Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe Tips

• Adjust cooking times: If you're using brown rice or other grains, adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts accordingly.
• Don’t skip the cheese: For an extra layer of indulgence, don’t hesitate to add cheese. It takes this skillet to the next level.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Can I freeze this skillet dish?
Absolutely. Just make sure to let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What type of sausage works best?
Any ground sausage will work for this recipe, but pork sausage, Italian sausage, or even spicy chorizo can add a unique flavor twist.

Can I use other grains besides rice?
Yes, feel free to substitute the rice with quinoa, farro, or barley for a different texture.

Conclusion

This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is an easy, flavorful, and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and only one pan to clean, it’s an ideal go-to dish that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or experiment with your own variations, you’ll end up with a delicious dinner that will become a staple in your meal rotation. So, grab your skillet and start cooking – you won’t be disappointed!

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