Smoked Sausage And Rice Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Smoked Sausage And Rice Skillet
If you’re searching for a hearty and comforting meal that’s easy to prepare, look no further than this Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet. This dish combines the smokiness of sausage with the perfect texture of rice and vibrant vegetables, making it a favorite for families and friends alike. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a meal that not only fills you up but also warms your soul.
A Personal Story Behind My Smoked Sausage And Rice Skillet Journey
Growing up, my family would often gather around the kitchen on busy weeknights, and this Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet was a staple in our home. My grandmother would whip it up in her trusty cast iron skillet, and the aroma of garlic and sautéed peppers would fill the air, drawing everyone to the table. It’s a dish that brings back fond memories of laughter and togetherness, and now I love sharing it with my own family.
What Makes This Smoked Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out not only for its delicious flavors but also for its versatility. You can easily modify it based on what you have in your pantry or your family’s preferences. The combination of smoked sausage, colorful bell peppers, and fluffy rice creates a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze!
The Full Smoked Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 12 oz pkg smoked sausage
- 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small white onion, quartered and sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp kosher sea salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 5 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth, divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 1/2 tbsp parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Start by cooking the white rice in a small saucepan according to the package instructions. This typically takes about 15-20 minutes. Remember to keep an eye on it to prevent it from sticking.
- While the rice is cooking, heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, and once it’s hot, add the smoked sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes or until browned on both sides. This step enhances the flavor of the sausage significantly. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the quartered and sliced onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they start to soften. This is a great time to add in the minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the tomato paste and about 3/4 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. Whisk these together and let the mixture simmer for about 1 minute. This creates a rich base for the dish. Then, sprinkle in the paprika and cayenne pepper for an extra kick.
- Now it’s time to stir in the cooked rice, browned sausage, remaining chicken broth, sautéed peppers, and onions. Mix everything well until combined. Let it simmer for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Smoked Sausage And Rice Skillet
This dish is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a side salad or some crusty bread. For variations, consider using different types of sausage, such as chicken or turkey sausage, for a leaner option. You can also add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for added nutrition and color. If you like a bit of heat, feel free to sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking for an extra kick!
Frequently Asked Questions About Smoked Sausage And Rice Skillet
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine and cook when you’re ready to eat.
Is this dish gluten-free? Yes, as long as you ensure your sausage and chicken broth are gluten-free, this dish is safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze any leftovers in an airtight container. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 380
- Servings: 4
Smoked Sausage And Rice Skillet
Equipment
- Cast Iron Skillet Ideal for even cooking and flavor enhancement.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.25 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 12 oz smoked sausage
- 0.5 red bell pepper, sliced
- 0.5 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small white onion, quartered and sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.5 tsp kosher sea salt
- 0.5 tsp ground black pepper
- 5 tbsp tomato paste
- 1.25 cup low-sodium chicken broth, divided
- 1 tsp paprika
- 0.125 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1.5 tbsp parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the white rice in a small saucepan following the package instructions.
- Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil. Once hot, add the smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides, around 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté the red and yellow bell peppers along with the onion for 4-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside with the sausage.
- Add the tomato paste and about 3/4 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. Whisk together and let it simmer for 1 minute. Then, add the paprika and cayenne pepper.
- Stir in the cooked rice, sausage, remaining chicken broth, peppers, and onions. Mix everything well. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.