Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity and flavor are key. The ground sausage and rice skillet is a perfect example of a dish that delivers on both fronts. This one-pan wonder combines savory sausage, tender rice, and a medley of vegetables, all cooked together to create a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you’re short on time or just looking for a comforting dish to feed the family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, followed by the ground sausage. Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the sausage is fully cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside, leaving any rendered fat in the pan.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook them in the sausage drippings until they’re softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds a rich, flavorful base for the dish.
3. Toast the Rice
With the vegetables sautéed, stir in the rinsed rice. Toasting the rice in the skillet before adding the liquid adds depth to the flavor and ensures that the grains remain separate as they cook. Stir the rice continuously for about 2-3 minutes until it starts to turn golden.
4. Add the Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the drained diced tomatoes and the chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine, making sure the rice is evenly distributed. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
5. Return the Sausage to the Skillet
Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet, along with the smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, then cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
6. Stir in the Vegetables
Once the rice is cooked, stir in the frozen peas or corn. These will cook quickly in the residual heat of the skillet, adding a pop of color and sweetness to the dish. If the skillet seems too dry, you can add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
7. Serve and Garnish
Your ground sausage and rice skillet is now ready to serve! Spoon it onto plates and top with optional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. For those who like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
Tips for Perfecting Your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
Choosing the Right Sausage
The type of sausage you use will greatly influence the flavor of the dish. Italian sausage adds a classic savory note, while spicy sausage can bring some heat. Feel free to experiment with different types to find your favorite.
Getting the Rice Just Right
To ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors, make sure to rinse it thoroughly before adding it to the skillet. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming too sticky.
Adjusting the Spiciness
If you’re making this dish for a family with varying spice tolerances, consider using mild sausage and letting individuals add their desired level of heat with hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Making It Vegetarian
To make this dish vegetarian, simply swap the sausage for a plant-based alternative. You can also add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, to bulk up the dish.
Variations and Substitutions
Spanish-Inspired Version
For a Spanish twist, use chorizo instead of sausage and add a pinch of saffron to the broth. You can also include olives or capers for an added briny flavor.
Cajun Style
Turn this dish into a Cajun classic by using andouille sausage, adding Cajun seasoning, and including diced celery alongside the onion and bell pepper. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh green onions.
Cheesy Skillet
For a cheesy variation, stir in a cup of shredded cheese just before serving. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella would all work well in this dish.
Serving Suggestions
Perfect Pairings
This ground sausage and rice skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a more rounded dinner.
Beverage Choices
A cold beer or a glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the savory flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, try a sparkling water with a twist of lemon or lime.
Leftover Ideas
If you have leftovers, this skillet dish reheats beautifully. You can also stuff it into bell peppers and bake for a different presentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook. You may need to add additional broth and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Can I Freeze This Dish?
Absolutely! This skillet meal freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Lighter?
To make a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage and reduce the amount of oil. Additionally, you can swap out the white rice for cauliflower rice.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to get creative with the vegetables! Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, and carrots would all be great additions to this dish.
How Do I Reheat Leftovers?
To reheat, simply warm the leftovers in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or water if the dish seems too dry. You can also microwave it in a covered dish.
Conclusion
The ground sausage and rice skillet is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners. With its hearty ingredients and rich flavors, it’s a meal that everyone will love. Plus, with the ability to customize the recipe with different sausages, vegetables, and spices, you can make it your own every time you cook it. Give this recipe a try, and it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity and flavor are key. The ground sausage and rice skillet is a perfect example of a dish that delivers on both fronts. This one-pan wonder combines savory sausage, tender rice, and a medley of vegetables, all cooked together to create a hearty, satisfying meal. Whether you're short on time or just looking for a comforting dish to feed the family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground sausage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Start by preparing your ingredients. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and gather your other ingredients for easy access.
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground sausage. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it's no longer pink and is slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there's excess fat, you can drain it off.
- Sauté the Vegetables: To the skillet with the browned sausage, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth into the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Incorporate Rice and Worcestershire Sauce: Add the uncooked rice and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a delicious, comforting meal.