If you're looking for a simple, hearty, and delicious meal that you can whip up in under 30 minutes, you're in the right place. This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this one-pan wonder is guaranteed to satisfy. Keep reading to learn the secret to making this easy, flavorful dish and all the tips and tricks for making it your new go-to dinner!

What is Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?
A Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal featuring savory ground sausage, perfectly cooked rice, and a mix of vegetables, all seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. This dish is highly customizable and can be adjusted based on your taste preferences or the ingredients you have on hand. It’s a balanced meal that combines protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables into one satisfying skillet.
Ingredients List for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
To prepare this hearty dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb ground sausage (pork, turkey, or chicken sausage)
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier twist)
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (or fresh vegetables of your choice)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Substitutions and Variations for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Here are some common substitutions and variations you can try:
- Sausage options: While pork sausage adds richness to the dish, you can use turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option. For a spicy twist, try using Italian or chorizo sausage.
- Rice options: Long-grain white rice is the standard, but you can substitute it with brown rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice. Just remember that cooking times may vary based on the type of rice you use.
- Vegetable swaps: Feel free to use any vegetables you prefer! Zucchini, spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli work well. Fresh or frozen vegetables can be used depending on what’s available.
- Low-carb version: Substitute the rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbs and make the dish keto-friendly.
- Cheesy addition: For a creamy, cheesy version, add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan cheese at the end for extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

How to Cook Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet:
- Brown the sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground sausage. Cook the sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until it's fully browned and no longer pink. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the olive oil, followed by the chopped onions, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add rice and spices: Stir in the uncooked rice, smoked paprika, and oregano. Toast the rice for about 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb the flavors from the spices.
- Add broth and tomatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (including their juice). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the rice cook for 15-20 minutes (or according to the rice package instructions). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Add frozen peas and carrots: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the frozen peas and carrots. Let them cook until the vegetables are heated through and the rice is fully cooked.
- Combine sausage with the skillet: Once the rice and vegetables are cooked, return the browned sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together, letting the flavors meld for a couple of minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot!
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
To ensure your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet turns out perfectly, be mindful of these common mistakes:
- Not fully browning the sausage: Make sure to cook the sausage thoroughly, as undercooked sausage can have a rubbery texture and lack flavor.
- Skipping the rice toasting step: Toasting the rice in the skillet before adding the liquid helps to develop deeper flavor and prevents mushy rice.
- Using too much or too little liquid: Always measure your broth carefully. Too much liquid can result in soggy rice, while too little will leave it undercooked.
- Not stirring occasionally: Stirring occasionally during the rice cooking process ensures even cooking and prevents sticking or burning at the bottom of the skillet.
- Overcooking the vegetables: Add frozen or fresh vegetables at the right time (toward the end of the cooking process) to prevent them from becoming mushy.
Serving and Presentation Tips for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
This hearty dish is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving and presentation. Here are a few ways to elevate your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet:
How to Serve Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Family-style: Serve the dish straight from the skillet. This rustic presentation makes it easy for everyone to dig in and grab a portion.
- Individual servings: For a more elegant presentation, divide the skillet meal into individual bowls or plates, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley on top.
- Side dish pairings: While this dish is a meal on its own, you can serve it with a light green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for a more complete meal.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Garnish with fresh herbs: Adding fresh parsley, cilantro, or chives on top of the skillet will not only brighten up the dish but also enhance the flavor.
- Colorful vegetables: Use a variety of colorful vegetables like red bell peppers, green peas, and orange carrots to make the dish visually appealing.
- Cheese topping: Grate some Parmesan or sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the dish for a cheesy finish.
- Citrus zest: For an unexpected twist, add a touch of lemon or lime zest on top before serving to enhance the flavors and add brightness.
Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe Tips
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when making this recipe:
- Pre-cook rice for faster prep: If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice or microwaveable rice packets. Just adjust the amount of liquid used in the recipe accordingly.
- Batch cooking for meal prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Make a large batch and store individual servings in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for longer storage.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Depending on the type of sausage you use, the seasoning may need adjustment. Taste the dish before serving and add more salt, pepper, or spices if necessary.
- Spice it up: If you enjoy spicy food, don’t hesitate to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet for extra heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use instant rice for this recipe?
Yes, you can use instant rice or pre-cooked rice to save time. Just reduce the amount of liquid in the recipe since instant rice will require less cooking time and moisture.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep and reheats well. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
3. Can I freeze Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the ground sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit the sausage altogether and increase the amount of vegetables and seasonings for a flavorful vegetarian dish.
5. What type of sausage works best for this recipe?
Pork sausage adds a lot of richness and flavor, but turkey, chicken, or even plant-based sausages work well. For a spicier version, use Italian sausage or chorizo.
Conclusion
The Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a delicious, satisfying, and versatile meal that you can easily make any night of the week. With its one-pan convenience, variety of flavors, and customizable ingredients, it’s a dish the whole family will love. Plus, the tips, substitutions, and variations mean you can make it uniquely yours every time. Whether you're feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy meal to prep ahead, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
PrintGround Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe
This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe is a simple, delicious one-pan meal. The combination of ground sausage, bell peppers, onions, and tender rice creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this dish requires minimal cleanup and is ready in under 30 minutes. The key ingredients—ground sausage and rice—deliver protein and carbs to keep you full and satisfied.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: skillet
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- Ground sausage
- Rice
- Bell peppers
- Onions
- Garlic
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Salt
- Black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers, and cook until softened.
- Add rice and stir, coating it with the sausage mixture.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Lower the heat, cover, and simmer until rice is cooked through and broth is absorbed, about 15-20 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can add other vegetables like peas or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version with plant-based sausage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ¼ of recipe
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
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