One Pan Sausage And Rice Dinner

Name: One Pan Sausage And Rice Dinner
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Classics

I absolutely love making One Pan Sausage and Rice Dinner on busy weeknights! It combines the wonderful flavors of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and perfectly cooked rice, all in just one pan. This dish not only saves me time on cleanup but also brings the family together for a hearty meal. Plus, the combination of spices and textures is simply irresistible! Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a go-to in your household.

Created by

Stella Cameron

Last updated on 2026-02-10T17:13:36.032Z

Every time I make this One Pan Sausage and Rice Dinner, I’m taken back to family gatherings where food was the centerpiece of our time together. I love how the smoky flavor of the sausage permeates the rice while cooking, creating an amazing aroma that fills the kitchen. It’s such a simple yet effective technique that elevates the dish without requiring extra effort.

One tip I learned is to let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking. This way, the grains firm up and absorb the flavors even better, making every bite delicious. It’s one of those meals that looks and tastes like it took hours to prepare, but really, it’s all done in one pot with minimal fuss!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Satisfying comfort food made in one pan
Versatile ingredient options for personal taste
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

Ingredient Insights

The choice of sausage is crucial for maximizing flavor in this dish. Smoked sausage, like kielbasa or andouille, imparts a rich, savory profile that infuses the entire meal with depth. If you're looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage can work beautifully, though they might require a pinch more seasoning to match the robust flavors of the smoked varieties. Be sure to slice the sausage into even pieces to ensure consistent cooking and browning.

Rice is the backbone of this dish, and using long-grain white rice is key for achieving the desired texture. It cooks up fluffy, absorbing the delicious broth while still retaining some bite. If you're gluten-free or looking to switch things up, consider using quinoa or brown rice—just adjust the cooking time and broth amount accordingly. Remember, brown rice will take longer to cook and require extra liquid, typically about 30–40 minutes.

Technique Tips

Browning the sausage properly creates a wonderful caramelization that enhances the overall taste of the dish. Aim for a nice golden crust, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat. This step not only adds flavor but also color, making your meal visually appealing. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this could lead to steaming rather than browning; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect crispiness.

When sautéing the vegetables, pay attention to texture. You want the onions and bell peppers to soften without turning mushy, typically taking about 3-4 minutes. A touch of salt during this step can help draw out moisture and boost the flavors of the vegetables. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to avoid sticking, especially as the garlic can burn quickly if left unattended.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious One Pan Sausage and Rice Dinner:

Ingredients

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Make sure you have everything prepped and ready to go before starting this simple one-pan dish!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your One Pan Sausage and Rice Dinner:

Cook the sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced sausage. Cook until it’s browned and starting to crisp up, about 5–7 minutes.

Sauté the vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3–4 minutes.

Add rice and spices

Stir in the rice, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 minutes to toast the rice.

Combine with liquids

Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquids are absorbed.

Rest and serve

Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing the rice with a fork. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Enjoy your flavorful and filling One Pan Sausage and Rice Dinner!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any vegetables you have on hand for extra flavor and nutrition. Frozen peas or corn can be a great addition!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This One Pan Sausage and Rice Dinner is ideal for meal prepping. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up if needed. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld even more, making it taste even better the next day.

If you're considering freezing this dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Be cautious with reheating, as overcooking the rice can turn it mushy; aim for gentle heat to avoid this common mishap.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your One Pan Sausage and Rice Dinner, consider serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious juices from the pan. A salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty flavors of the sausage and rice, balancing the meal beautifully.

You can also customize toppings to suit your family's preferences. A sprinkle of grated cheese, like Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream, can add a creamy richness that complements the dish. For an added pop of flavor, serve with a wedge of lemon or lime to squeeze over the top just before eating. This simple addition can brighten the dish, enhancing its overall flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian sausage for a different take on the dish.

→ Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it for an easy meal.

→ Is it suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for a few days.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

This dish is quite filling on its own, but a fresh salad or some crusty bread would complement it nicely.