Looking for a quick and easy dinner that packs a ton of flavor? This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is the perfect solution. It’s a one-pan dish that combines savory ground sausage with tender rice, fresh vegetables, and a variety of spices. The best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or meal prepping. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite!
What is Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?
Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a hearty, one-pan dish where ground sausage is cooked with vegetables, rice, and seasonings all in the same skillet. It’s a complete meal in itself, with protein from the sausage, carbs from the rice, and nutrients from the veggies. This skillet dinner is perfect when you want a flavorful, filling meal without spending a lot of time or effort. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to swap ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients List for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Here’s a simple list of what you’ll need:
For the Skillet:
- Ground sausage: 1 pound (450g) of ground sausage. Italian sausage, breakfast sausage, or spicy sausage all work well, depending on your taste.
- Rice: 1 cup (180g) of uncooked long-grain white rice or brown rice. You can also use jasmine or basmati rice for extra flavor.
- Onion: 1 medium onion, diced. Yellow or white onions are best.
- Garlic: 3 cloves of garlic, minced. Fresh garlic adds rich flavor.
- Bell pepper: 1 large bell pepper, diced. You can use any color—red, green, yellow, or orange—for a pop of color and sweetness.
- Diced tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz/410g) of diced tomatoes, undrained. Adds moisture and a slightly tangy flavor to the dish.
- Chicken broth: 2 ½ cups (600ml) of low-sodium chicken broth. This cooks the rice and adds extra flavor.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon for warmth and color.
- Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon for added herb flavor.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon for sautéing the veggies, if needed.
Optional Ingredients:
- Frozen peas or corn: 1 cup for added texture and sweetness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: A pinch for a bit of heat if using mild sausage.
- Shredded cheese: 1 cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for an optional cheesy finish.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to switch up the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are some ideas:
- Sausage Variations: Use any type of sausage—mild, spicy, or flavored like Italian sausage. You can also use turkey sausage for a lighter option, or plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version.
- Rice Alternatives: Substitute white rice with brown rice, wild rice, or even quinoa for a healthier twist. Note that brown rice or wild rice may require a longer cooking time.
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap the bell pepper for zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You can also add more veggies like carrots, celery, or green beans to bulk up the dish.
- Low-Carb Option: Use cauliflower rice in place of regular rice for a low-carb or keto-friendly version. Just reduce the amount of liquid and cook for less time since cauliflower rice cooks much faster.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the flavor by adding different herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary. You can also add cumin or chili powder for a Tex-Mex twist.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make this delicious ground sausage and rice skillet. It’s quick, easy, and done in just one pan!
Step 1: Cook the Ground Sausage
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks (about 5-7 minutes). If the sausage releases too much fat, drain off any excess, but leave a little to help flavor the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Seasonings
- Stir the uncooked rice into the skillet with the sausage and vegetables, letting it toast for a minute to enhance the flavor.
- Add the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Broth
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. If using frozen peas or corn, stir them in now and let them warm up for a few minutes in the residual heat.
- For an optional cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and serve hot.
How to Cook Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Brown the ground sausage in a skillet.
- Sauté diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Add uncooked rice, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 18-20 minutes.
- Stir in peas or corn if using, and optionally melt cheese on top before serving.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To make sure your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time, watch out for these common mistakes:
- Not Toasting the Rice: Toasting the rice in the pan before adding the liquid helps to enhance the flavor and prevent it from becoming mushy. Don’t skip this step!
- Not Stirring Occasionally: While the rice is cooking, give the skillet a stir every so often to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensure even cooking.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Be careful not to add too much broth or the dish may become too soupy. Stick to the recipe's proportions, and if needed, you can add a splash more broth near the end if the rice isn't fully cooked.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Once your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is ready, it’s time to serve! Here are some ideas to make the dish even more appealing:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the skillet with freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve with a Salad: Pair the skillet with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors of the dish.
How to Serve Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
This skillet meal is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can enhance it with a few side dishes or toppings:
- With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of the sausage and rice.
- With Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up any remaining juices in the skillet.
- With Avocado: Add slices of creamy avocado on top for a fresh and delicious contrast.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
To make your skillet meal visually appealing, try these ideas:
- Serve in the Skillet: Present the dish in the same skillet it was cooked in for a rustic, family-style meal.
- Plate Individually: Scoop individual servings onto plates and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for a polished look.
- Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you have a cast-iron skillet, cook and serve the meal in it for a rustic, hearty presentation that keeps the food warm.
Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe Tips
Here are a few final tips to ensure your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Low-Sodium Broth: Since sausage can be salty, opt for low-sodium chicken broth to avoid an overly salty dish. You can always adjust the seasoning later.
- Make It Cheesy: For an extra indulgent touch, sprinkle some shredded cheese over the top in the last few minutes of cooking and let it melt into the rice.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like things spicy, use hot sausage or add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give the dish some heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the entire dish and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for
up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen it up.
Q: Can I freeze Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?
A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Let the skillet cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Q: Can I use pre-cooked rice?
A: Absolutely! If using pre-cooked rice, reduce the chicken broth to about ½ cup and cook the sausage and vegetables as directed. Stir in the pre-cooked rice and tomatoes, and cook until everything is heated through.
Conclusion
Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a delicious, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With savory sausage, tender rice, and fresh vegetables, this hearty dish is full of flavor and easy to customize. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner idea or a meal that’s perfect for leftovers, this skillet recipe has you covered. Give it a try tonight and enjoy a meal that’s simple, satisfying, and sure to please the whole family!
PrintGround Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe
This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is a quick and easy one-pan dish packed with seasoned sausage, rice, and sautéed vegetables. It’s a comforting, family-friendly dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the sausage:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside. - Sauté the vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic for 3-4 minutes, until softened. - Add the rice and seasoning:
Stir in the uncooked rice, paprika, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, to lightly toast the rice. - Add broth and tomatoes:
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. - Simmer:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. - Combine with sausage:
Once the rice is cooked, return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. - Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice for a healthier option, but adjust the cooking time as needed.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
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