If you’re craving a comforting, hearty, and utterly satisfying one-pan meal, look no further than this Rice and Italian Sausage Skillet Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of savory Italian sausage, tender rice, and vibrant veggies all cooked together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this skillet meal warms the soul and pleases every palate with its balanced spices and colorful presentation. This recipe is as easy to make as it is delicious, proving that great food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and accessible, yet each one plays a crucial role in making this Rice and Italian Sausage Skillet Recipe an explosion of great taste. From the aromatic herbs to the sturdy rice, every component brings its own texture, color, or flavor to the pan.
- Italian sausage (1 lb): Choose mild or hot, with casings removed to make crumbling and cooking easier and ensure the sausage melds perfectly with the rice.
- Long-grain white rice (1 cup): This grain soaks up flavors beautifully while staying fluffy and separate, giving a perfect texture contrast.
- Medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed, softening into the blend.
- Bell pepper, diced (any color): Offers a bright pop of color and mild sweetness that complements the sausage.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses a punch of savory aromatic that enhances every bite without overpowering.
- Chicken broth (2 cups): Serves as a flavorful cooking liquid that cooks the rice and adds richness.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, drained): Adds a touch of acidity and a juicy texture, balancing the richness of the sausage.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): Lends a classic Italian herbal note to the dish.
- Dried basil (1 tsp): Complements oregano and adds another layer of herbal sweetness.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp, optional): Adds subtle heat for those who like a little spice without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into beautiful balance.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing and adding richness without heaviness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: A fresh, green garnish that brightens up the plate and flavor.
How to Make Rice and Italian Sausage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Browning the sausage is crucial because it creates those irresistible caramelized bits that add deep flavor to the whole dish. Once cooked through and nicely browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté them until they soften and become fragrant, about five minutes. This gentle cooking releases their natural sweetness and makes them perfectly tender. Add the minced garlic last, cooking for just one more minute so it releases aroma without burning or becoming bitter.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the long-grain white rice directly to the skillet with your sautéed vegetables. Stir well to coat each grain with the flavorful oil and vegetable mix. This step helps the rice absorb flavors and gives a slightly nutty touch that enhances the overall texture of the dish.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and the drained diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes if you like heat, and season generously with salt and black pepper. This combination sets the foundation for those classic Italian flavors that make this skillet so crave-worthy.
Step 5: Combine Sausage and Simmer
Return the browned sausage to the skillet, stirring everything together to evenly distribute all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. This step is where all the flavors marry beautifully, creating a cozy, unified dish.
Step 6: Fluff and Finish
Once the rice is perfectly cooked, fluff the mixture gently with a fork to separate the grains and mix in the sausage and veggies evenly. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for that burst of color and fresh flavor just before serving.
How to Serve Rice and Italian Sausage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the most classic garnish, adding a lovely green touch and subtle freshness that complements the savory sausage. If you want extra flair, a light sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few thin slices of fresh chili pepper can turn this into a vibrant plate that invites everyone to dig right in.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands well on its own as a complete meal, but if you want to round things out, a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus can add extra nutrients and variety without competing with the flavors in the skillet.
Creative Ways to Present
For family dinners, serve the Rice and Italian Sausage Skillet Recipe straight from the pan for a rustic and approachable vibe. For a dinner party, consider plating individual servings in shallow bowls with a drizzle of good olive oil and a sprinkle of additional fresh herbs. You might also stuff roasted bell peppers with the cooked mixture and bake until tender for a colorful twist that feels extra special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, any leftovers should be cooled quickly and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, so the next day’s portions often taste even better. Leftovers will keep fresh for up to three days.
Freezing
This skillet recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the cooled rice and sausage mixture into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion. Frozen leftovers can be kept for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
When it’s time to enjoy the leftovers, reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of broth or water to revive the moisture in the rice. Covering the pan helps warm everything evenly, and stirring occasionally keeps the texture light and fluffy. Microwave reheating works well too; just add a little moisture and cover to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage gives the recipe its classic flavor, you can switch to chorizo, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage to suit your preferences. Just keep in mind the spice level and adjust your seasonings accordingly.
Is it necessary to drain the diced tomatoes?
Yes, draining the canned diced tomatoes helps prevent the dish from becoming too watery, which ensures your rice cooks up fluffy rather than mushy. If you prefer a slightly saucier skillet, you can add some of the juice back in.
Can I substitute brown rice or another grain?
Brown rice can be used, but it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly by increasing the broth and simmering longer. Other grains like quinoa or farro could work but may alter the texture and cooking method.
How spicy is this recipe? Can I make it milder?
The crushed red pepper flakes add optional heat but you can leave them out entirely for a milder dish. Choosing mild Italian sausage also controls the spice level. Feel free to adjust so it’s perfect for your taste buds.
Can this be made in advance for meal prep?
Definitely! This Rice and Italian Sausage Skillet Recipe is great for meal prep. Cook it fully, store in individual containers, and enjoy throughout the week. It reheats well and tastes great cold as well if you prefer.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about coming home to a warm, flavorful skillet meal that’s ready in under an hour. This Rice and Italian Sausage Skillet Recipe checks every box — easy, hearty, colorful, and utterly delicious. It’s the kind of dish you’ll turn to again and again when you want comfort food without fuss. Go ahead and make it tonight; your kitchen and taste buds will thank you!
Print
Rice and Italian Sausage Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal combining Italian sausage, long-grain rice, and savory vegetables, simmered together with herbs and tomatoes for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)
Produce
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grains & Legumes
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Herbs & Spices
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks, until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook over medium heat until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring to prevent burning.
- Toast the rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet with the vegetables, stirring well to coat the rice in oil and mix it evenly with the vegetables.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and drained diced tomatoes. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
- Simmer the dish: Return the browned sausage to the skillet and stir to incorporate. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the dish hot for a comforting and delicious meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, use hot Italian sausage and include the crushed red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice, but cooking time will need to be increased.
- Make sure to drain the diced tomatoes well to prevent excess liquid.
- This recipe can be made gluten-free by ensuring the sausage and broth are gluten-free certified.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
