If you are looking for a comforting yet vibrant meal that comes together in a snap, the Sausage and Rice Skillet with Bell Peppers and Herbs Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish balances smoky sausage with tender rice and crisp bell peppers, all infused with fragrant herbs that brighten every bite. It is the perfect go-to recipe when you want flavorful, hearty food without complicated steps or long cooking times, so let’s dive into making this delicious one-pan wonder!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients are the heart of this skillet meal. Each one brings a unique element, from savory sausage to aromatic herbs, creating layers of flavor that make this recipe irresistible.
- Smoked sausage (1 pound): Choose andouille or kielbasa for a smoky, bold taste that infuses the dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Used to brown the sausage and soften vegetables, adding subtle richness.
- Onion (1 small, diced): Builds a sweet and savory base that pairs perfectly with the sausage.
- Green bell pepper (1, diced): Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color to brighten the plate.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a punch of aromatic flavor that complements both meat and veggies.
- Long-grain white rice (1 cup): Cooks up fluffy, the perfect texture to soak up all those savory juices.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Infuses moisture and depth of flavor, replacing water for a more robust dish.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a gentle warmth and beautiful color to the rice.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds subtle heat and balances the seasoning.
- Dried thyme (1/4 teaspoon): Brings earthy herbaceous notes that lift the whole dish.
- Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- Chopped parsley (optional garnish): A fresh, green finish for brightness and visual appeal.
How to Make Sausage and Rice Skillet with Bell Peppers and Herbs Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage rounds and cook them until they are nicely browned and their delicious aromas fill the kitchen—this typically takes about 4 to 5 minutes. Browning the sausage first not only seals in its flavor but also adds beautiful caramelized bits to the pan.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Bell Pepper
Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the pan but keep those flavorful drippings inside. Toss in the diced onion and green bell pepper, cooking them for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften into a tender, slightly sweet mix. Stir in the minced garlic for just 30 seconds to release its fragrance without burning.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Adding the uncooked rice directly into the pan allows it to toast lightly in the oils and vegetable mix, which takes about 1 to 2 minutes. This step gives the rice a lovely nuttiness and helps keep the grains separate and fluffy once cooked.
Step 4: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth carefully, watching as it mingles with the toasted rice and veggies. Sprinkle in paprika, black pepper, dried thyme, and salt according to your taste preference. Return the browned sausage back to the skillet and stir everything together to combine evenly.
Step 5: Simmer and Cook Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it cook gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the broth’s flavors. When done, remove the pan from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork to finish.
How to Serve Sausage and Rice Skillet with Bell Peppers and Herbs Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten up each serving, sprinkle the skillet dish with fresh chopped parsley. This simple garnish adds a dash of color and a fresh herbal note that contrasts beautifully with the smoky sausage.
Side Dishes
This meal stands on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans to add a fresh, crunchy texture alongside the rich and tender flavors of the skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the sausage and rice mixture stuffed into roasted bell pepper halves or alongside a dollop of tangy sour cream or Greek yogurt. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side can also enhance flavors with a bright splash of acidity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this recipe can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld wonderfully, making it an even tastier lunch the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, let the skillet dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat the sausage and rice skillet gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice from drying out. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly and reclaim that fresh-cooked taste.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage like andouille or kielbasa adds a smoky depth, you can substitute with Italian sausage, chicken sausage, or any favorite type that suits your palate.
Is it okay to use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Adjust the broth quantity and increase simmering time to ensure the rice cooks through.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Diced tomatoes, corn, peas, or even mushrooms make great additions that boost nutrition and add exciting flavors and textures.
How spicy is this dish?
The dish is mild by default, but if you crave heat, try adding red pepper flakes or opt for a spicy sausage variety to turn up the heat pleasantly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free sausage and broth. Always double-check ingredient labels to be sure.
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got this wonderful Sausage and Rice Skillet with Bell Peppers and Herbs Recipe in your culinary toolkit, you’ll find yourself reaching for it time and time again when you want a quick, comforting meal full of flavor and heart. Its simplicity and vibrant tastes make it an absolute crowd-pleaser. So gather your ingredients, grab a skillet, and enjoy this delicious dish with those you love!
Print
Sausage and Rice Skillet with Bell Peppers and Herbs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern, American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Sausage and Rice Recipe is a hearty, flavorful one-pan meal featuring smoky sausage, tender rice, and classic Southern ingredients. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, it combines sautéed smoked sausage with aromatic vegetables and rice cooked in savory chicken broth, spiced with paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Garnished with fresh parsley, this dish offers a comforting balance of protein, carbs, and vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 pound smoked sausage (such as andouille or kielbasa), sliced into rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Rice and Seasoning
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, add the diced onion and green bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds, ensuring the garlic does not burn.
- Toast the Rice: Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir well to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring frequently to lightly toast the rice and develop flavor.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then add paprika, black pepper, dried thyme, and salt to taste. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer and Cook: Return the browned sausage to the pan and mix it into the rice mixture. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and cook for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Let it Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let the dish sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and rice to finish steaming. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Substitute brown rice for white rice, but increase the chicken broth to 2 1/2 cups and cook for about 40 minutes until tender.
- Add extra vegetables such as diced tomatoes, corn, or peas to enhance flavor and nutrition.
- Incorporate red pepper flakes or use a spicy sausage to add heat to the dish.
- Use gluten-free chicken broth to keep the recipe gluten-free.
