One-pot smoked sausage and rice is the kind of meal that saves busy weeknights. Smoky sausage, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies cook together in one pot, creating a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes. It’s comfort food that’s simple to prepare but tastes like you spent all evening in the kitchen.
I love sharing easy recipes that bring families together, and this one is always a favorite. If you enjoy cozy one-pan meals like my easy goulash recipe, you’ll love how this smoked sausage and rice delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a casual family dinner.
Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Minimal cleanup with just one pot to wash.
- Deliciously smoky flavor that pleases even picky eaters.
- Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient substitutions.
- Nutritious and filling, making it a complete meal in itself.
One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Kid-friendly
Description
A simple and delicious one-pot meal featuring smoked sausage, rice, and vegetables, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 14 ounces smoked sausage like kielbasa – sliced into rounds
- 1/2 cup onion diced, about 1/2 medium onion for 1/2 cup
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika will give more flavor if you have it)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup white rice (long grain)
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned.
- Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken broth, rice, and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
- This dish can be customized with other vegetables like corn or peas.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients for One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice a hit at your dinner table. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Smoked sausage: I love using kielbasa for its rich flavor, but any smoked sausage works well. It adds that delicious, smoky essence to the dish.
- Onion: Diced onion brings sweetness and depth. You can use yellow or white onions, depending on what you have on hand.
- Red bell pepper: This adds a pop of color and sweetness. Feel free to swap it for green bell pepper or even a mix of colors!
- Olive oil: A splash of olive oil helps to sauté the sausage and veggies, enhancing their flavors. You can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
- Paprika: Regular paprika works, but smoked paprika takes the flavor up a notch. It’s worth the switch if you have it!
- Oregano: This herb adds a lovely earthiness. Dried oregano is perfect, but fresh can be used if you have it on hand.
- Garlic powder: A sprinkle of garlic powder gives a subtle kick. You can also use fresh garlic if you prefer.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust these to your taste. Remember, the sausage can be salty, so taste as you go!
- Chicken broth: Low-sodium chicken broth keeps the dish flavorful without being overly salty. You can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- White rice: Long grain rice works best for this recipe, but you can use brown rice if you’re looking for a healthier option. Just adjust the cooking time.
- Tomato paste: This adds richness and depth to the dish. If you don’t have tomato paste, crushed tomatoes can be a good substitute.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This step is crucial as it helps to infuse the oil with flavor. A properly heated oil ensures that the sausage cooks evenly, giving it that delightful golden-brown color.
Step 2: Brown the Smoked Sausage
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and let it brown. Aim for a nice sear on each side, which enhances the dish’s flavor. Browning creates a rich, smoky base that will elevate your One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice to new heights.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them until they soften, about 3-4 minutes. These veggies add a burst of flavor and texture, making your easy weeknight sausage rice skillet even more delicious and colorful.
Step 4: Add Spices
Now, sprinkle in the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine. The spices are essential for elevating the dish’s flavor profile, transforming your smoked sausage and tomato rice into a comforting, aromatic meal.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the rice and tomato paste. Stir everything together until well mixed. This step is vital for creating a cohesive dish, ensuring that every grain of rice absorbs the delicious flavors of the broth and sausage.
Step 6: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes. This gentle cooking method allows the rice to absorb the liquid evenly, resulting in a perfectly cooked, fluffy texture.
Step 7: Fluff and Serve
Once the rice is cooked, use a fork to fluff it gently. This step helps separate the grains and makes the dish look inviting. Serve your One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, for an attractive presentation.
Tips for Success
- Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your preference.
- For extra flavor, let the sausage brown well before adding other ingredients.
- Use a pot with a tight-fitting lid to trap steam for even cooking.
- Feel free to add your favorite veggies like corn or peas for variety.
- Leftovers make a great lunch! Store them in an airtight container.
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential. A Dutch oven works great, but any large pot will do.
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot. A spatula can also work.
- Measuring cups: Handy for measuring rice and broth accurately.
- Cutting board and knife: Essential for chopping veggies and sausage.
Variations To Try
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist that will wake up your taste buds.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap the smoked sausage for plant-based sausage or chickpeas for a hearty, meatless meal.
- Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheese like cheddar or pepper jack just before serving for a creamy, cheesy finish.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness and color.
- One-Pot Mediterranean: Add olives and feta cheese for a Mediterranean flair that pairs beautifully with the smoky sausage.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice with a crisp green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious flavors.
- A glass of chilled white wine complements the smoky sausage beautifully.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
- For a fun twist, serve in bowls with a sprinkle of cheese on top!
FAQs about One-Pot Smoked Sausage And Rice
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this recipe?
Yes, you can use brown rice! Just remember that it requires a longer cooking time. Adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly for a perfect one-pot dinner with peppers and rice.
What can I substitute for smoked sausage?
If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage works well. For a vegetarian version, try plant-based sausage or even chickpeas for a kid-friendly smoked sausage meal.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like corn, peas, or zucchini. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrition to your smoked sausage and tomato rice.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal!
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This easy weeknight sausage rice skillet is perfect for meal prep. Make a big batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Conclusion
This one-pot smoked sausage and rice recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create big flavor. With smoky sausage, tender rice, and veggies in every bite, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. Plus, since it all comes together in one pot, cleanup is quick—leaving you more time for what really matters.
For more weeknight favorites, try my comforting easy spaghetti and meatballs or the hearty meatloaf with mushroom gravy. Both recipes are family-approved and just as satisfying as this one.
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