Looking for a simple, tasty, and hearty meal that comes together in just one pan? Then you're in the right place! This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is a delicious and filling dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Packed with flavors, it combines the savory richness of ground sausage with the comforting texture of rice, all seasoned to perfection. Best of all, it's customizable with a variety of vegetables and spices to suit your taste buds. Keep reading to discover the ultimate step-by-step guide to mastering this dish!

What Is Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?
Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a versatile one-pan meal that brings together ground sausage, rice, and an array of flavorful ingredients in one convenient dish. It’s an ideal option when you want a meal that’s hearty but doesn’t require a ton of cleanup. With the savory sausage as the star, rice absorbs all those rich juices, while vegetables add a healthy balance to this flavorful skillet dish. Whether you're a novice or an experienced home cook, this recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients List for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
Before we jump into the cooking process, it’s essential to gather all the ingredients you’ll need. The best thing about this dish is its flexibility, allowing you to add or omit ingredients based on your preferences or what's in your pantry.
Essential Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (mild, spicy, or Italian sausage)
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups chicken broth (for richer flavor, or substitute with water)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (any color works)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz can, with juice)
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional, for added texture and nutrition)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional Toppings:
- Chopped parsley or cilantro for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese for added richness
- Lemon wedges for a burst of acidity
Substitutions and Variations for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. Here are a few substitutions and variations you can consider to make it your own:
- Ground Sausage Alternatives: If you're not a fan of sausage or want to switch it up, you can easily substitute ground beef, turkey, or chicken. For a plant-based version, try a meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
- Rice Options: While white rice is commonly used, you can opt for brown rice, jasmine, or basmati rice for extra flavor. Keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time and more liquid.
- Vegetables: Swap out the bell pepper and peas for zucchini, spinach, carrots, or mushrooms. This is an excellent way to use up any leftover veggies in your fridge.
- Broth Choices: Chicken broth is the go-to, but you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or beef broth for a deeper flavor.
- Spices: Feel free to mix up the spices. Add a little cumin or chili powder for a Tex-Mex twist, or some Italian seasoning if you're using Italian sausage.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

To make this delicious ground sausage and rice skillet, follow these simple steps. The best part? It all cooks in one skillet, which means less mess and fewer dishes!
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and measure out your rice, broth, and seasonings. Having everything ready before you start cooking will make the process smoother.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Rice and Spices
Next, add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the oil and vegetables. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing it to absorb some of the flavors. Then, add the smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
Step 5: Pour in Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in the chicken broth and canned diced tomatoes, including the juice. Stir well to ensure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 6: Simmer and Cook
Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.
Step 7: Add Vegetables
About 5 minutes before the rice is done, stir in the frozen peas or corn. Cover the skillet again and cook until the vegetables are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
Step 8: Fluff and Serve
Once the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed, turn off the heat. Fluff the mixture with a fork and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Cook Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Brown the Sausage: Heat oil in the skillet, cook sausage until browned, and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, cook onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
- Add Rice and Spices: Stir in uncooked rice, spices, and toast for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in Liquids: Add broth and canned tomatoes, stir to combine, and return sausage to the pan.
- Simmer: Let everything simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is cooked.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in peas or corn for added texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Fluff the mixture, garnish, and enjoy!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not browning the sausage: Properly browning the sausage adds a lot of flavor to the dish. Make sure to cook it until it’s nicely caramelized.
- Not using enough liquid: Rice needs enough liquid to cook properly. Always ensure the rice is fully submerged in the broth before covering the skillet.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Add softer vegetables like peas or spinach toward the end to avoid mushiness.
- Not stirring occasionally: Stirring helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the skillet.
Serving and Presentation Tips
A simple dish like this deserves a thoughtful presentation. Here are a few ways to elevate the look of your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet:
How to Serve Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Family-Style: Serve the skillet right at the table for a rustic, family-style meal. Let everyone scoop out their portions.
- Individual Bowls: Divide the dish into individual bowls, garnished with fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice for a bright finish.
- With a Side Salad: Pair this hearty dish with a simple side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sausage and rice.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Colorful Garnishes: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color. You can also add sliced green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
- Serve with Crusty Bread: A side of crusty bread adds texture and is perfect for soaking up any remaining juices in the skillet.
Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe Tips
- Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice before adding the liquid helps bring out a nutty flavor and enhances the texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, cilantro, or even basil can add a bright, fresh flavor to balance the richness of the sausage.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a little heat, add extra red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage to give the dish a kick.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant rice to speed up the cooking process. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well and can be made in advance. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?
Yes, it freezes well. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
What can I serve with this dish?
A light salad, steamed veggies, or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
Conclusion
This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a true one-pan wonder! It’s easy to make, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty meal with minimal cleanup. With endless variations, you can customize this recipe to suit your tastes and preferences. Whether you're cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this skillet dish is sure to become a household favorite. So grab your skillet and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
PrintGround Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe
This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is a simple and hearty dish perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with ground sausage, rice, and vegetables, it's a one-pan meal that’s flavorful and easy to make. Enjoy a satisfying meal in less than 30 minutes with this easy skillet recipe.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and reduce heat to low. Let cook for 18-20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
- Add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 920mg
Leave a Reply