This Hearty One-Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner is a filling meal that comes together in a single pot! Juicy sausages and fluffy rice mix with colorful veggies for a tasty dish.
I love how quick and simple it is to whip this up after a long day. Plus, fewer dishes mean more time to relax, right? Enjoy this cozy dinner with family or friends—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Smoked Sausage: Andouille or kielbasa work great here, but feel free to use any smoked sausage you prefer! For a lighter option, try turkey or chicken sausage. You can also go meat-free and use plant-based sausage alternatives.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is my go-to for this dish, but brown rice or jasmine rice can also bring a nice twist. If you use brown rice, extend the cooking time and add a bit more liquid.
Bell Peppers: The green and yellow bell peppers add color and sweetness. You can mix it up using red or orange peppers instead. For a spicier kick, consider adding a diced jalapeño.
Chicken Broth: If you’re looking for a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth. Homemade broth always adds extra flavor, but store-bought works just fine!
Tomato Paste: For added flavor, sun-dried tomato paste can be a delightful alternative. If you want something lighter, you can skip the paste altogether and just use more diced tomatoes.
How Do I Perfectly Cook the Rice in One Pot?
Cooking rice in a single pot can be tricky if you’re not familiar with the process. Here are some tips to make sure it turns out fluffy every time:
- Start by rinsing your rice. This helps remove excess starch, preventing the rice from becoming sticky.
- Make sure to use enough liquid. Ratio usually is 2 cups of liquid for every 1 cup of rice. Keep an eye on this ratio based on the type of rice you’ve chosen.
- Don’t stir the rice once you add the broth. This can break the grains and make it gummy.
- It’s key to cover the pot while simmering so the steam can cook the rice evenly.
- Let the rice stand covered for a few minutes after cooking, then fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains.
With these insights and tips, you’re all set to create a delicious, hearty one-pot sausage and rice dinner! Enjoy!
Hearty One-Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage (e.g., andouille or kielbasa), sliced into 1/2 inch pieces
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook, totaling around 40 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a hearty dinner on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
Start by slicing your smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces, dicing the onion, and chopping the green and yellow bell peppers. Rinse the rice in cold water to remove excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from being too sticky. Get all your ingredients ready so you can cook smoothly!
2. Brown the Sausage:
In a large deep skillet or cast iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it’s nicely browned on both sides. Once done, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside for later.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are softened and the onion becomes translucent. This will add a great flavor base to the dish! Then, stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy) for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add Tomatoes and Rice:
Now it’s time to add the tomato paste and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Next, add the rinsed rice and mix it to coat with the tomato mix.
5. Cook Everything Together:
Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring this combination to a boil. Once boiling, return the browned sausage to the pan, gently nesting it into the rice.
6. Simmer and Let it Sit:
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. After that, remove the pan from heat and let it rest covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for garnish, and serve warm. Enjoy your hearty, comforting one-pot sausage and rice dinner!
This dish is easy to make and perfect for busy nights. Pair it with a fresh salad or some bread for a complete meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! While andouille or kielbasa are great choices, you can use any smoked sausage you prefer, such as turkey or chicken sausage. For a vegetarian option, look for plant-based sausage alternatives.
What If I Don’t Have Long-Grain Rice?
No worries! You can substitute with brown rice or jasmine rice. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary; brown rice usually takes longer and may require additional liquid, so adjust accordingly!
Can This Dish Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish in advance! Cook the recipe, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.
Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or need further assistance with the recipe! Enjoy your cooking!
