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Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe, Dinner for Two

When you need a quick and satisfying dinner for two, a Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect solution. This one-pan meal is packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, a cozy dinner at home, or a simple weeknight meal, this dish delivers hearty, comforting flavors in just 30 minutes.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from key ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions to expert tips, creative twists, and presentation ideas.

Why This Recipe is Perfect for Dinner for Two

One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in a single skillet, making cleanup easy.
Fast & Flavorful: Ready in under 30 minutes with bold flavors.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
Customizable: Easily adaptable to different flavors and ingredients.

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

1. Sausage

The main protein in this dish, sausage adds bold, savory flavor. Smoked sausage, andouille, or Italian sausage all work well.

2. Rice

The base of the dish, rice soaks up the seasonings and broth, making every bite flavorful. Long-grain white rice works best, but brown rice can be used for a healthier twist.

3. Bell Peppers

Bell peppers add a sweet, slightly crunchy texture, balancing the richness of the sausage. Use red, green, or yellow peppers for color and variety.

4. Onion & Garlic

These aromatics build a flavorful base, adding depth to the dish. Fresh garlic and onion bring out the best in the sausage.

5. Chicken Broth

Broth adds moisture and enhances the flavor of the rice. Low-sodium chicken broth is best to control salt levels.

6. Diced Tomatoes

Tomatoes add a hint of acidity and freshness, keeping the dish from feeling too heavy. Fire-roasted tomatoes provide extra depth.

7. Olive Oil or Butter

Used for sautéing the sausage and vegetables, adding richness and preventing sticking.

8. Seasonings (Paprika, Oregano, Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes)

Seasonings bring everything together. Paprika and red pepper flakes add warmth, while oregano and black pepper enhance the dish’s depth.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
1 cup long-grain white rice
1 ½ cups chicken broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
Salt to taste
Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Step-by-Step “SAUSAGE AND RICE SKILLET” Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned.
Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Cook for 3 minutes, until softened.
Stir in garlic, paprika, oregano, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir well.
Let it cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to absorb flavors and slightly toast.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then stir to combine.
Return the browned sausage to the skillet.
Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutes over low heat, until the rice is tender.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and taste for seasoning. Add salt if needed.
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
Serve hot and enjoy your dinner for two.

Expert Tips for the Best Sausage and Rice Skillet

Use the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice works best. If using brown rice, increase the cooking time by 10-15 minutes.
Control the Salt: If using a salty sausage or broth, taste before adding extra salt.
Let the Rice Absorb the Flavors: Stir once after adding the broth, then let it cook undisturbed for best texture.
Get a Crispy Bottom: For extra flavor, let the rice sit for 1-2 minutes at the end to create a crispy layer at the bottom.

Presentation Tips

Serve in the Skillet: A cast-iron skillet makes a rustic, cozy presentation.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Chopped parsley or green onions add a fresh pop of color.
Pair with a Simple Side: A green salad or crusty bread complements the dish beautifully.

Creative Twists

1. Cajun-Style Sausage and Rice Skillet

Swap smoked sausage for andouille sausage.
Add ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning for extra spice.

2. Cheesy Sausage and Rice Skillet

Stir in ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese at the end for a creamy, cheesy twist.

3. Mexican-Inspired Version

Use chorizo sausage and swap oregano for cumin.
Add ½ cup black beans and top with avocado slices.

4. Mediterranean Twist

Use chicken sausage and swap paprika for Italian seasoning.
Stir in chopped olives and feta cheese before serving.

Pro Tip for Customization

To make this meal even healthier, swap white rice for quinoa or brown rice and use turkey sausage instead of regular smoked sausage. You can also add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for more nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but reduce the broth to ½ cup and add the rice in Step 4, cooking just long enough to heat through.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

3. Can I make “SAUSAGE AND RICE SKILLET“ in advance?

Yes! Cook the sausage and veggies ahead of time, then add the rice and broth when ready to serve.

4. What’s the best sausage to use?

Smoked sausage works best, but you can also use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or kielbasa.

5. Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap sausage for plant-based sausage or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion

This Sausage and Rice Skillet is the ultimate dinner for two—flavorful, filling, and ready in just 30 minutes. With endless ways to customize it, this one-pan meal is sure to become a household favorite.

Try it tonight and enjoy a stress-free, delicious meal!