Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a rich, savory dish cooking on the stovetop, a scent that brings back memories of family dinners. The Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that comes together in just under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of juicy sausage, fluffy rice, and melted cheddar creates a satisfying dinner that will please even the pickiest eaters.

This recipe is ideal for families looking for a quick meal or anyone who enjoys easy, hearty cooking. It’s also a fantastic option for meal prep, as leftovers keep well in the fridge for days.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It cooks in one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
• The sausage adds a rich, meaty flavor throughout.
• Melted cheese gives it a creamy, comforting texture.
• It’s a complete meal with protein, veggies, and carbs.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Base

• 1 lb ground sausage
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Liquid Components

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 2 cups chicken broth

For the Rice

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

For Serving

• 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Use low-sodium broth for less salt.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Ground turkey for sausage
• Brown rice for white rice
• Vegetable broth for chicken broth
• Other cheeses like mozzarella

How to Make It

Follow these steps for a delicious one-pan dinner.

Prep the Ingredients

Start by preparing your ingredients. Dice the onion and bell pepper, mince the garlic, and gather your other ingredients for easy access.

Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground sausage. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s no longer pink and is slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off.

Sauté the Vegetables

To the skillet with the browned sausage, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Add Tomatoes and Broth

Pour the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth into the skillet. Stir to combine.

Incorporate Rice and Worcestershire Sauce

Add the uncooked rice and Worcestershire sauce to the skillet. Stir well to ensure the rice is fully submerged in the liquid.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and most of the liquid has been absorbed.

Add Cheese

Once the rice is tender, sprinkle the shredded Cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet. Cover for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese has melted.

Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a delicious, comforting meal.

How to Store It

Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Tips for Best Results

• Cook over medium heat to prevent burning.
• Stir occasionally to avoid sticking.
• Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
• Fresh parsley adds color and freshness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with a side salad for added greens.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a perfect meal.