There’s nothing cozier than a big, hearty bowl of Smoked Sausage and Rice. This crave-worthy skillet dinner brings together savory sausage, tender rice, and vibrant veggies—all in just one pan. Every spoonful is packed with comforting flavors, cheerful colors, and a little kick, making it the kind of meal you’ll want to share around the table, week after week. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or entertaining friends, Smoked Sausage and Rice is that perfect, fuss-free dish your whole crew will love.

Smoked Sausage and Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about this recipe is how it transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special. Each item in the list below plays an important role, bringing flavor, texture, or a pop of color to your skillet supper.

Smoked sausage: Classic kielbasa or andouille brings irresistible smoky depth and a bit of spice to every bite.
Olive oil: Used for browning the sausage and vegetables, adding richness and helping everything cook evenly.
Onion: Diced small for sweetness and aromatic foundation.
Red bell pepper: Adds vibrant color and a juicy, subtle sweetness.
Garlic: Gives the dish a warm, savory backbone—don’t skip it!
Long grain white rice: Absorbs all the amazing flavors and gets perfectly fluffy.
Chicken broth: Infuses every grain of rice with savory goodness while keeping things moist.
Paprika: Adds gentle warmth and smokiness, complementing the sausage.
Dried oregano: Brings a hint of herby, earthy flavor.
Black pepper: Kicks up the flavor just the right amount.
Salt to taste: Adjusts and balances all the flavors.
Red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat if you like things spicy—totally up to you!
Frozen peas: For bursts of bright green and sweet freshness at the end.
Chopped parsley (for garnish): Sprinkles on a fresh, herby finish just before serving.

How to Make Smoked Sausage and Rice

Step 1: Brown the Smoked Sausage

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your sliced smoked sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rounds get a lovely golden edge and a little crispiness. This first step is key—the sausage develops more flavor as it browns. Once they’re perfect, scoop them out and set aside, but keep that tasty oil in the pan!

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In that same skillet, add your diced onion and red bell pepper. The steam and sizzle will already smell delicious! Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until everything is softened and glossy. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds—enough to make your kitchen smell amazing but not long enough to burn.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Pour the uncooked long grain rice right into the skillet with the tender veggies. Give everything a good stir and toast it for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll notice a nutty aroma and the rice will start to look a little translucent—this step helps add extra flavor and a nice texture to the finished dish.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings

Now, pour in the chicken broth, then add the paprika, oregano, black pepper, and salt (plus red pepper flakes if you’re feeling bold). Stir well to get everything combined, and bring the mixture to a lively boil. This is when the rice starts soaking up all those beautiful flavors.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it all simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. Don’t peek! You want the rice to become tender while the flavors meld together. By the end, most of the liquid will be absorbed, and your rice should be perfectly cooked.

Step 6: Finish and Fluff

Stir in the frozen peas and the reserved smoked sausage pieces. Cover again and let the pan sit off the heat for about 5 minutes—this gently steams the peas and brings everything together. Fluff the rice with a fork, sprinkle on chopped parsley, and your homemade Smoked Sausage and Rice is ready to serve hot and fragrant.

How to Serve Smoked Sausage and Rice

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of chopped parsley is classic, adding a garden-bright freshness that brings out all the colors in your skillet. If you want a little flair, add thin slices of green onion or a dusting of extra paprika. For a final pop, squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the top—just a touch brightens everything up in the best way!

Side Dishes

Smoked Sausage and Rice is a stand-alone superstar, but a crunchy green salad, tangy coleslaw, or a pan of roasted vegetables make it a true feast. Warm dinner rolls or cornbread are great for soaking up the savory juices from your plate. If you like an extra kick, try a dollop of hot sauce or a spoonful of spicy pickled onions on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

While a big family-style skillet on the table is always inviting, you can also serve Smoked Sausage and Rice in individual bowls for meal prep or pack it into bento-style lunch boxes. Fill bell pepper halves with a generous scoop for an eye-catching twist, or use the rice and sausage as a hearty filling in warm tortillas for a fun, southern-inspired wrap.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Smoked Sausage and Rice keeps beautifully, making it an ideal meal prep option for busy days. Once cooled, pack the rice into airtight containers and store them in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors just get better with a little time!

Freezing

To freeze, let Smoked Sausage and Rice cool completely, then spoon into freezer-safe containers or zipper bags. Lay them flat for easy stacking. It will keep for up to three months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a splash of broth upon reheating to refresh the texture and taste.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat Smoked Sausage and Rice gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth to loosen as needed. Stir occasionally to warm everything evenly, and taste for salt and pepper before serving hot again. The sausage stays juicy, and the rice is just as lush as day one.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, absolutely! Just remember that brown rice takes longer to cook and needs more liquid, so add an extra half to one cup of broth and increase the simmer time. The nutty chew of brown rice is delicious in this recipe.

Is Smoked Sausage and Rice spicy?

It’s perfectly balanced as written, with just a mild warmth from the paprika and optional red pepper flakes. If you want more heat, add more flakes or swap in a spicy andouille sausage for an extra kick.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the smoked sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth—the depth of flavor and satisfying textures will still shine through.

What vegetables can I add to Smoked Sausage and Rice?

You can easily mix in chopped spinach, diced tomatoes, corn, or even zucchini for extra color and nutrition. Add them when you sauté the onion and bell pepper for best results.

Can I prep this ahead for a gathering?

Yes! You can prepare Smoked Sausage and Rice a day in advance, cool and refrigerate it, then gently reheat before your guests arrive. Give it a fresh sprinkle of parsley and maybe another squeeze of lemon just before serving to liven up the flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a new weeknight favorite, Smoked Sausage and Rice is calling your name. It’s easy to make, full of bold flavors, and brings everyone to the table with a smile. Give it a try soon—you’ll love every last bite!

Smoked Sausage and Rice Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Smoked Sausage and Rice recipe is a flavorful one-pot meal that combines savory smoked sausage with tender rice and veggies, all cooked to perfection in a blend of herbs and spices. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

14 oz smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion (diced)
1 red bell pepper (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 cup frozen peas
Chopped parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Cook Smoked Sausage: In a large skillet, brown sliced smoked sausage in olive oil until crispy. Set aside.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
Add Rice: Stir in uncooked rice and toast for a few minutes.
Cook Rice: Pour in chicken broth, add spices, and simmer until rice is tender.
Finish Dish: Mix in peas and cooked sausage, let sit to warm through. Garnish with parsley before serving.