One Pot Sausage And Rice

Craving a hearty, flavor-packed meal without the hassle of multiple pots? This One Pot Sausage and Rice recipe is your perfect solution! With smoky sausage, tender rice, and vibrant veggies simmered in a rich, savory broth, every bite bursts with comforting goodness.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this easy skillet meal comes together effortlessly in just one pan—less mess, more flavor! Plus, it’s endlessly versatile—swap in your favorite sausage, adjust the spice level, or add extra veggies to make it your own.

Ready to bring bold flavors to your table with minimal effort? Let’s dive in!

Key Benefits of One Pot Sausage and Rice

Why should this one pan sausage and rice dish be your next go-to meal? Simple—it’s packed with flavor, effortless to make, and perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s what makes it a standout recipe:

Quick & Convenient – With everything cooking in a single pot, cleanup is a breeze. Less mess, more time to enjoy your meal!

Rich, Savory Flavor – The smoky sausage, aromatic spices, and simmered rice create a deeply satisfying taste in every bite.

Budget-Friendly & Versatile – This dish makes the most of pantry staples while allowing you to customize ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Hearty & Filling – A well-balanced combination of protein, grains, and vegetables keeps you full and satisfied without needing extra sides.

Perfect for Meal Prep – It stores and reheats beautifully, making it a fantastic choice for batch cooking.

Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a quick comfort meal, this easy skillet recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Ready to get cooking? Let’s dive into the ingredients!

Ingredients for One Pot Sausage and Rice

Gather these simple, flavorful ingredients to create a rich and satisfying one pan sausage and rice dish. Each ingredient plays a key role in building depth and texture, making every bite deliciously comforting.

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or chorizo), sliced – Adds a smoky, savory kick.
• 1 cup long-grain rice (jasmine or basmati) – Absorbs flavors beautifully and stays fluffy.
• 1 small onion, diced – Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – Brings color and a fresh, slightly sweet taste.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the dish with bold, savory notes.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth – Infuses the rice with rich, comforting flavor.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended) – Adds a slight tang and depth.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smokiness of the sausage.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Balances the dish with earthy, herbal notes.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) – For a touch of heat.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Elevates all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter – Helps sauté the ingredients for a richer taste.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

• ½ teaspoon cajun seasoning – If you love bold, spicy flavors.
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn – Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.
• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions – A fresh, vibrant garnish.
• Shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan) – A creamy, indulgent touch.

This simple yet flavor-packed ingredient list ensures a hearty skillet meal that’s easy to customize. Now, let’s move on o the step-by-step instructions to bring it all together!

Instructions: How to Make One Pot Sausage and Rice

This one pan sausage and rice dish comes together effortlessly in just a few simple steps. Follow this guide for a flavorful, perfectly cooked meal with minimal effort!

1. Sauté the Sausage & Aromatics

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
• Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
• Add the minced garlic, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Build the Flavor Base

• Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the ingredients with seasoning.
• Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth, stirring to combine.

3. Cook the Rice to Perfection

• Add the long-grain rice, stirring gently to ensure it’s evenly distributed in the liquid.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook undisturbed for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

4. Finish & Serve

• Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to fully absorb any remaining moisture.
• Fluff the rice gently with a fork and stir in any optional add-ins like peas, corn, or shredded cheese.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of freshness.

Now, grab a bowl and dig into this rich, savory, and satisfying one pot meal! Want to customize it further? Keep reading for some pro tips and variations.

Pro Tips and Variations

Want to take your one pot sausage and rice to the next level? Here are some expert tips and delicious variations to make this dish even better!

Pro Tips for the Best Flavor & Texture

Use the Right Rice: Long-grain varieties like jasmine or basmati work best because they stay fluffy and absorb flavors well. Avoid instant rice, which can become mushy.

Brown the Sausage First: Sautéing the sausage before adding other ingredients enhances its smoky flavor and creates a delicious caramelized base.

Let It Rest: After cooking, let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing. This allows the grains to absorb any remaining moisture and ensures the perfect texture.

Adjust the Liquid: If the rice isn’t fully cooked but the liquid has evaporated, add a splash of broth, cover, and simmer for a few more minutes.

Control the Spice Level: For a mild dish, skip the cayenne and use a milder sausage like kielbasa. Love heat? Try spicy andouille or chorizo and add extra paprika or hot sauce!

Tasty Variations to Try

Cajun-Style: Add ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and swap in andouille sausage for a Louisiana-inspired twist.

Tex-Mex Inspired: Stir in black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of taco seasoning, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.

Veggie-Packed: Boost nutrition by adding spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms—simply toss them in with the bell peppers.

Cheesy Comfort: Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) at the end for a creamy, melty finish.

Seafood Fusion: Replace the sausage with shrimp or smoked salmon for a lighter but equally flavorful dish.

This easy skillet meal is endlessly customizable, so feel free to get creative! Up next—how to serve it for the best experience.

Serving Suggestions

This one pot sausage and rice is a hearty, flavorful meal on its own, but the right pairings can elevate it even further. Whether you’re keeping it simple or creating a complete feast, here are some delicious ways to serve it.

Perfect Pairings

Light & Fresh: Balance the rich, savory flavors with a crisp green salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette.

Warm & Buttery: Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up every last bite of the flavorful broth.

Cool & Creamy: Add sliced avocado or a dollop of sour cream for a smooth contrast to the smoky sausage.

Extra Protein: Pair with a side of black beans or pinto beans for added heartiness and fiber.

Creative Serving Ideas

Stuffed Peppers: Spoon the cooked mixture into halved bell peppers, sprinkle with cheese, and bake until tender.

Breakfast Remix: Top leftovers with a fried or poached egg for a satisfying morning meal.

Cheesy Casserole: Transfer to a baking dish, add a layer of shredded cheese, and broil for a few minutes until bubbly.

Whether you serve it as a cozy dinner or reinvent it for the next meal, this savory skillet dish is always a crowd-pleaser! Next, let’s go over the best ways to store and freeze it for later.

Storing and Freezing Instructions

Keep your delicious one pot sausage and rice fresh and ready for another satisfying meal with these simple storage tips:

For Refrigerating Leftovers:

• Cool Before Storing:
  Allow your dish to cool to room temperature for about 20–30 minutes. This helps prevent condensation that can make the rice soggy.
  
• Use Airtight Containers:
  Transfer the cooled meal into airtight containers. This seals in the flavors and keeps your leftovers fresh for up to 3–4 days.
  
• Reheat with Moisture:
  When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir occasionally to ensure even warmth.
  

For Freezing and Long-Term Storage:

• Portion Out for Convenience:
  Divide the dish into single-serving portions using freezer-safe bags or containers. This way, you can thaw just the amount you need.
  
• Seal and Label:
  Remove excess air from freezer bags to reduce the risk of freezer burn, and label each package with the date. Your easy weeknight dinner can be stored for up to 3 months.
  
• Thaw and Reheat Properly:
  For best results, thaw the frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat on low heat with a little extra liquid to bring back the dish’s original texture and flavor.
  

Following these actionable steps ensures that your one pot sausage and rice remains as rich and savory as when freshly made, making meal prep both convenient and delicious. Enjoy your leftovers as a quick, satisfying meal any day of the week!

Conclusion

There you have it—a one pot sausage and rice recipe that’s as easy as it is delicious! With its smoky sausage, tender rice, and bold spices, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a comforting family meal. It’s a true crowd-pleaser that comes together in one pan with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

Whether you stick to the classic ingredients or mix things up with a few tasty variations, this savory skillet meal is endlessly customizable to fit your tastes. Plus, with the option to store leftovers or freeze for later, you’ll always have a hearty, satisfying meal ready to go when you need it most.

Now that you’ve got the recipe, it’s time to get cooking. Enjoy every bite, and feel free to share your own twists on this dish in the comments below—I’d love to hear how you make it your own!

One Pot Sausage And Rice

Paul, AI Chef

Savor the rich flavors of One Pot Sausage and Rice! Quick, easy, and hearty, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Contemporary Comfort Food

Servings 4 people

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb smoked sausage andouille, kielbasa, or chorizo, sliced – Adds a smoky, savory kick.
• 1 cup long-grain rice jasmine or basmati – Absorbs flavors beautifully and stays fluffy.
• 1 small onion diced – Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic base.
• 1 bell pepper diced – Brings color and a fresh, slightly sweet taste.
• 2 cloves garlic minced – Enhances the dish with bold, savory notes.
• 1 ½ cups chicken broth – Infuses the rice with rich comforting flavor.
• 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (fire-roasted recommended) – Adds a slight tang and depth.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Enhances the smokiness of the sausage.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano – Balances the dish with earthy herbal notes.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional – For a touch of heat.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Elevates all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter – Helps sauté the ingredients for a richer taste.

Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:

• ½ teaspoon cajun seasoning – If you love bold spicy flavors.
• 1 cup frozen peas or corn – Adds a pop of sweetness and texture.
• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions – A fresh vibrant garnish.
• Shredded cheese cheddar or Parmesan – A creamy, indulgent touch.

Instructions

 

Sauté the Sausage & Aromatics

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
• Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
• Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to soften.
• Add the minced garlic, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Build the Flavor Base

• Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried oregano, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the ingredients with seasoning.
• Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth, stirring to combine.

Cook the Rice to Perfection

• Add the long-grain rice, stirring gently to ensure it’s evenly distributed in the liquid.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook undisturbed for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Finish & Serve

• Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to fully absorb any remaining moisture.
• Fluff the rice gently with a fork and stir in any optional add-ins like peas, corn, or shredded cheese.
• Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of freshness.

Notes

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Total Fat: 0.63 oz
• Protein: 0.78 oz
• Carbohydrates: 1.41 oz
• Fiber: 0.11 oz
• Sodium: 0.03 oz

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About One Pot Sausage and Rice

Got questions? Don’t worry! Here are some answers to common queries that will help you perfect this one pan sausage and rice dish every time.