If you’re craving a comforting, one-pan meal that bursts with bold flavors and invites cozy vibes, then this Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Savory Italian sausage mingles beautifully with tender rice, vibrant bell peppers, and rich tomatoes, all simmered together to create a dish that is as hearty as it is easy to prepare. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend dinner, this skillet recipe delivers a satisfying experience without fuss, making it a true kitchen winner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe has a special role to play, coming together to create perfect harmony in taste, texture, and color. The simplicity of these pantry staples makes the cooking process straightforward while keeping the flavors rich and inviting.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed): The star protein that brings bold, savory depth with just the right amount of spice.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Provides a fluffy, absorbent base that soaks up all those wonderful flavors.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a tender bite when sautéed.
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced: Offers crunch and a pop of vibrant color plus a touch of natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for aroma and that signature Italian savory punch.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Infuses the rice with rich, savory depth while keeping everything moist.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Introduces a slight tang and juicy texture that lifts the dish.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings earthy, herbal notes to keep the flavors authentically Italian.
- 1 tsp dried basil: Adds a sweet, peppery freshness that harmonizes with the sausage and veggies.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like just a little extra kick.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the dish perfectly.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: The cooking medium that also contributes smooth richness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A bright, fresh finish that adds color and lightness.
How to Make Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it into small crumbles as it cooks. Browning it thoroughly is key because those little caramelized bits pack incredible flavor. When it’s cooked through, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside. This step gives your base rich, meaty depth that forms the backbone of this dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in your diced onion and bell pepper. Let them soften and sweeten in the residual sausage fat and olive oil for about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aromatic magic. This combination builds layers of flavor and color that energize the skillet.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the rice right into the pan with the softened vegetables. Stir everything so the rice grains become coated with the flavorful oils and softened vegetables. Toasting the rice lightly in this step adds a subtle nuttiness and helps improve the final texture after cooking.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth and drained diced tomatoes, then sprinkle in oregano, basil, crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them, plus salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir everything carefully to combine flavors. These ingredients create a savory, herb-infused liquid that the rice will absorb, ensuring every bite is bursting with Italian charm.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Return the browned sausage to the pan and mix it well with the rice and veggies. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors marry beautifully and the dish thickens into a comforting casserole-like skillet.
Step 6: Fluff and Garnish
Once the rice is perfectly cooked, fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains and keep it light. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top to add a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness just before serving. Now your Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is ready to delight everyone at the table!
How to Serve Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish to something spectacular. A handful of fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese adds a fresh, savory balance. If you like a bit more heat, a few extra crushed red pepper flakes on top will perk up each serving.
Side Dishes
This skillet is satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables keeps the meal feeling balanced. Crusty Italian bread or garlic bread make fantastic companions too, perfect for soaking up any tasty juices left in the pan.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish in individual, shallow bowls topped with a dollop of creamy ricotta or a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This adds variety to both presentation and flavor, turning the humble skillet meal into something special for guests or family nights.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it an ideal choice for next-day lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
If you want to stash away some for longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to preserve freshness and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed to loosen things up. Stir occasionally until heated through and serve with your favorite garnishes for a quick, flavorful meal anytime.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Italian sausage gives the dish its signature flavor, you can substitute with other sausages like chorizo or spicy breakfast sausage. Just keep in mind that the seasoning profile will change a bit.
Is it possible to use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but cook times will vary. Brown rice takes longer to cook, so you might need to simmer the skillet for an additional 10 to 15 minutes and increase the liquid slightly to get the right texture.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, swap the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken for cooking the rice to keep it flavorful.
How spicy is this Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe?
The spice level depends on the sausage you choose and whether you include the crushed red pepper flakes. Using mild sausage and skipping the flakes keeps it gentle, while hot sausage and extra flakes bring a noticeable kick.
What’s the best type of pan for making this dish?
A large, heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan with a lid works best. It ensures even heat distribution and helps the rice cook evenly while keeping the moisture locked in.
Final Thoughts
This Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is a truly wonderful dish that combines simplicity with bold, comforting flavors that your whole family will love. It’s a fantastic go-to for those days when you want something hearty without a fuss. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to this warm, satisfying skillet meal again and again.
Print
Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish combining savory Italian sausage, tender long-grain white rice, and aromatic vegetables simmered together with herbs and tomatoes. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers a balanced meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Sausage and Rice
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Seasonings
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Cook them for about 5 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Toast the rice: Add the long-grain white rice to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir thoroughly to coat the rice with the oil and vegetable mixture, helping to enhance its flavor.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and drained diced tomatoes. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer with sausage: Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix everything well. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, use hot Italian sausage or add extra crushed red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor or to make it halal depending on the sausage used.
- Make sure to keep the skillet covered during simmering to properly cook the rice through steam.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for variety.
- This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
