If you’re craving a dish that feels like a cozy hug and brings a pop of rustic Italian flavor to your dinner table, Rice and Italian Sausage is the answer. This one-skillet wonder is loaded with juicy sausage, vibrant bell peppers, tender rice, and a swirl of herby tomato goodness. Each spoonful is hearty, savory, and just the right amount of comforting, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re feeding family and friends. It’s the kind of meal that puts everyone at ease and makes you look like a kitchen rockstar—even if you’re just cooking in cozy socks. Trust me, Rice and Italian Sausage deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
What I love most about this Rice and Italian Sausage recipe is that every ingredient has a special role, whether it’s building up the flavor, bringing color, or adding that final touch of elegance. These staples are easy to keep on hand, and together, they create something truly crave-worthy.
- Olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, helping to bring out the richness in both sausage and veggies.
- Italian sausage: Go for sweet or spicy depending on your preference—either way, it infuses the rice with tons of bold flavor.
- Onion: Gives the dish depth and a gentle sweetness as it softens.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a cheerful splash of color and sweet crunch that keeps every bite interesting.
- Garlic: A must for that irresistible aromatic base—nothing says “home-cooked” like a hit of garlic.
- Long-grain rice: Picks up all the flavorful juices without getting mushy—rinsing keeps it fluffy.
- Chicken broth: Soaks into the rice, delivering extra savoriness and moisture.
- Diced tomatoes: Offer a tangy lift and a hint of juicy brightness throughout.
- Italian seasoning: The classic, savory herbs that give a true Italian touch in every bite.
- Smoked paprika: A subtle hint of smokiness that deepens the overall aroma and color.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to balance out all the flavors.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts in at the finish, lending savory richness and a beautiful creamy texture.
- Fresh parsley: The finishing flourish, adding freshness and color for a killer presentation.
How to Make Rice and Italian Sausage
Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the Italian sausage (casings removed) and use a spatula or wooden spoon to break it apart. Sauté for about 6 to 7 minutes until no pink remains and you’ve got little golden-brown bites. The aroma at this point? Pure anticipation.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Next up: toss in the finely chopped onion and diced red bell pepper. Let them mingle with the sausage for about 3 minutes, stirring now and then until they soften up and their color brightens. This step builds a sweet and savory base that gives Rice and Italian Sausage its undeniable charm.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Sprinkle in the minced garlic, letting it sizzle for just about a minute. Be careful not to burn it; you want it fragrant and toasty, creating that must-have Italian warmth instead of bitterness.
Step 4: Toast the Rice
Pour in the rinsed long-grain rice. Give it all a good stir, letting the rice toast gently for 2 minutes. This little trick adds a delightfully nutty flavor and keeps the grains from clumping later—total game-changer for a perfect Rice and Italian Sausage.
Step 5: Add Liquids and Seasonings
Time for the magic! Pour in chicken broth and drained diced tomatoes, then sprinkle in Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, scraping any tasty bits off the pan—flavor gold! Bring the whole mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer undisturbed for 18 to 20 minutes.
Step 6: Rest and Finish
Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes. Don’t skip this! It allows the flavors to settle and the rice to become even fluffier. Finally, stir in the Parmesan cheese and shower with fresh parsley for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy finish. There you have it—Rice and Italian Sausage glory!
How to Serve Rice and Italian Sausage
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra Parmesan and fresh parsley takes this dish from cozy to celebration-ready in seconds. You can even add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bold kick, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil to amp up the richness.
Side Dishes
Rice and Italian Sausage is a standout on its own, but it also plays beautifully with simple sides. Try a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette, garlic bread fresh from the oven, or roasted vegetables like zucchini and cherry tomatoes. The fresh sides help balance the heartiness of the main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
Portion the Rice and Italian Sausage into individual bowls for a cozy, rustic feel, or serve it family-style straight from the skillet for easy self-service. If you’re looking to impress, spoon it into roasted bell pepper halves or serve atop a bed of sautéed spinach for a fun, colorful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra Rice and Italian Sausage chills nicely in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container and you’ve got a ready-made lunch or stress-free dinner just waiting for you.
Freezing
This recipe freezes surprisingly well. Let it cool completely, portion your Rice and Italian Sausage into freezer-friendly containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For best flavor and texture, reheat Rice and Italian Sausage gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water. If using the microwave, cover loosely and heat in short bursts, stirring between each to keep everything evenly warm and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
You can absolutely swap in brown rice, just keep in mind the grain will need more liquid and a longer cook time—plan on at least 40 minutes simmering. Check the doneness and add extra broth if needed.
What’s the best type Main Course
Both sweet and spicy Italian sausage work beautifully in this dish. Use whichever you love, or mix them for a balanced kick. Make sure the sausage is fresh for the juiciest flavor.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to stir in spinach, zucchini, or even mushrooms during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition. This Rice and Italian Sausage recipe is wonderfully flexible.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Ensure your Italian sausage and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. Everything else in Rice and Italian Sausage is naturally GF, so this dish makes an easy, crowd-pleasing option for gluten-sensitive friends and family.
Is it spicy?
The baseline recipe is savory with a touch of warmth from the smoked paprika. Use spicy Italian sausage if you want more heat, or keep it mild for a dish everyone can enjoy—totally your call!
Final Thoughts
Truly, there’s something magical about coming together over a shared pot of Rice and Italian Sausage. It’s hearty, satisfying, and so simple, yet packed with layers of flavor that taste like home. Give it a try, and watch it become one of your most requested—and most loved—meals!
Print
Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pan dish featuring rice and Italian sausage, cooked to perfection with a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. This easy-to-make recipe is a satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
Seasonings and Garnish:
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil.
- Cook Sausage: Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes.
- Sauté Vegetables: Stir in onion and bell pepper, cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add Rice and Ingredients: Stir in rice, toast for 2 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, tomatoes, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes. Stir in Parmesan cheese, garnish with parsley, and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use spicy Italian sausage.
- You can also add spinach or zucchini in the last few minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers reheat well and make a great meal prep option.
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