Ground Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

Introduction

Looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal that’s easy to make? This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is just what you need! Packed with savory sausage, tender rice, and a mix of vibrant vegetables, it’s the perfect one-pan dinner for busy weeknights. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it also comes together in under 30 minutes. Ready to dive in? Read on to discover how you can whip up this delicious meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

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What is Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet?

Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan dish made with flavorful ground sausage, cooked rice, and a medley of vegetables. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility—it’s a meal that can be easily customized to suit your tastes and what you have on hand. The savory, rich taste of sausage pairs beautifully with the fluffy rice and fresh veggies, creating a comforting, satisfying dish that works for both lunch and dinner. The best part? It's a budget-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

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Ingredients List for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

Here’s everything you need to create this easy, delicious meal:

• 1 lb ground sausage (Italian, spicy, or breakfast sausage)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water for cooking rice)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Substitutions and Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted. Here are some substitutions and variations to make the dish your own:

• Sausage Options: You can use any ground sausage you like. Italian sausage gives the dish a rich, herby flavor, while spicy sausage adds some heat. Breakfast sausage works well too if you’re looking for a milder taste.
• Rice Options: Instead of white rice, feel free to use brown rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice. Just note that cooking times may vary depending on the type of rice you choose.
• Vegetables: Swap out the peas and carrots for whatever you have in the fridge. Broccoli, zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms would all be excellent additions. You can also use fresh vegetables instead of frozen.
• Cheese: The cheese is optional but adds a creamy texture. Try cheddar, mozzarella, or even Parmesan for a different flavor.
• Herbs and Spices: Change up the herbs and spices to suit your taste. Smoked paprika, cumin, or Italian seasoning can add new layers of flavor to the dish.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by prepping your vegetables—dice the onion, bell pepper, and mince the garlic. If you’re using fresh vegetables instead of frozen, chop those as well.
2. Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground sausage and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned and cooked through.
3. Add Vegetables: Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add Rice and Seasoning: Stir in the uncooked rice, paprika, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Allow the rice to toast for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking.
5. Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
6. Add Frozen Peas and Carrots: If you’re using frozen peas and carrots, stir them into the skillet during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They’ll heat through without overcooking.
7. Check for Doneness: Taste the rice to ensure it’s fully cooked. If needed, add a little more broth and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the rice reaches your desired texture.
8. Add Cheese: If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle it over the top of the skillet during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet again to allow the cheese to melt.
9. Garnish and Serve: Once everything is cooked and the cheese is melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor before serving.

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How to Cook Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s break it down even further:

1. Brown the Sausage: This step creates the base of the dish, giving it rich, meaty flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Adding onions, garlic, and bell pepper infuses the dish with a deep, savory aroma.
3. Toast the Rice: This adds a subtle nutty flavor to the rice before you cook it.
4. Simmer the Rice: Cooking the rice in chicken broth ensures that every grain is packed with flavor.
5. Finish with Cheese: For a creamy, melty topping, add your favorite shredded cheese at the end.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not Browning the Sausage Properly: Make sure to cook the sausage until it’s nicely browned. This caramelization adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
• Undercooking the Rice: Be sure to simmer the rice until it’s fully tender. If it’s too hard, add more broth and cook a few minutes longer.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Avoid overcrowding the skillet with too many vegetables at once. Cook them in stages if necessary to prevent them from steaming rather than sautéing.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Don’t forget to season as you go! Adding salt, pepper, and herbs at different stages ensures balanced flavor.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

The beauty of this dish is that it’s as tasty as it is visually appealing. Here are some tips for serving and presenting your Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet:

• Serve Straight from the Skillet: This is a rustic, comforting dish, so serving it straight from the pan works perfectly. It saves on dishes and keeps the food warm!
• Garnish for Color: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or even chopped green onions to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Side Suggestions: This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can serve it alongside a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

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How to Serve Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Family-Style: For a relaxed, communal meal, serve the skillet family-style in the middle of the table. Let everyone help themselves!
• Meal Prep: This recipe stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Divide leftovers into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Taco Night Twist: For a fun variation, serve the sausage and rice skillet in soft tortillas or taco shells for a delicious twist on taco night.

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Presentation Ideas for Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Use Cast Iron: A cast-iron skillet not only cooks the dish evenly but also makes for a beautiful presentation. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic look.
• Garnish Strategically: A sprinkle of parsley or freshly grated cheese right before serving adds a vibrant and appetizing touch to the dish.
• Layer the Colors: When adding vegetables, try to arrange them so the different colors—red bell peppers, green peas, orange carrots—stand out against the rice and sausage.

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Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe Tips

• Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy sausage to kick up the heat.
• Add More Veggies: Don’t hesitate to pack in more vegetables—mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach all work well.
• Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and measure out your spices and rice ahead of time.
• Use Leftover Rice: This recipe works well with leftover rice. Just adjust the cooking time and broth accordingly.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?
A: Absolutely. Once cooled, transfer the skillet contents to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water.

Q: What kind of sausage should I use?
A: Any ground sausage works! Italian sausage adds a nice herb flavor, while breakfast sausage is milder. For a spicy kick, try using chorizo or hot sausage.

Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
A: Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to add extra liquid and cooking time.

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Conclusion

This Ground Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, delicious, and versatile meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals for the week, this one-pan wonder is sure to satisfy. From the savory sausage to the tender rice and vibrant veggies, every bite is full of flavor. Plus, with so many possible variations, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your tastes or dietary needs. So grab your skillet and give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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