Sausage, Pepper & Rice Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner

There’s something undeniably comforting about a one-pan meal. It’s the kind of dish that saves you time, minimizes dishes, and delivers big on flavor. If that sounds like a dream come true, then this Sausage, Pepper & Rice Skillet is about to become your new weeknight go-to.

This dish brings together the rich, smoky flavor of sausage, the natural sweetness of bell peppers, and the fluffy texture of rice, all infused with aromatic spices and a savory broth. It’s a simple, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The best part? You only need one pan to make it, which means fewer dishes to wash and more time to relax.

I first fell in love with this dish on a chilly autumn evening when I needed something warm, filling, and easy to throw together. I had some smoked sausage in the fridge, a few bell peppers on the counter, and some rice in the pantry. Within 30 minutes, I had a skillet full of goodness, and from that moment on, it became a staple in my kitchen. It’s the perfect meal for busy nights, meal prepping, or whenever you need a delicious dish with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to love this Sausage, Pepper & Rice Skillet, but here are just a few that will convince you to give it a try:

• One-Pan Wonder – No need for multiple pots and pans. Everything cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
• Quick and Easy – With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed – The combination of smoked sausage, sweet peppers, and a perfectly seasoned rice base ensures every bite is full of bold flavors.
• Customizable – You can easily switch up the protein, add more veggies, or spice it up to match your taste preferences.
• Kid-Friendly – This dish is mild yet flavorful, making it a great option for the whole family.

The smoky sausage gives the dish a deep, rich taste, while the bell peppers add a touch of natural sweetness. The rice absorbs all the delicious flavors from the broth and seasonings, making it incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to be a hit.

Health Benefits

While this dish is undeniably delicious, it also has several nutritional benefits that make it a great addition to your meal rotation.

• Protein-Packed – The sausage provides a good amount of protein, which helps keep you full and satisfied. If you opt for a leaner sausage like chicken or turkey sausage, you can reduce the fat content while keeping the protein high.
• Rich in Fiber – The bell peppers and rice add fiber to the dish, promoting good digestion and keeping you fuller for longer.
• Loaded with Vitamins – Bell peppers are a fantastic source of Vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports healthy skin. They also contain Vitamin A, which is great for vision and overall health.
• Balanced Carbs – Rice provides a steady source of energy, making this dish a great option for an active lifestyle. You can use brown rice for extra fiber and a lower glycemic index.
• Heart-Healthy Ingredients – If you opt for olive oil instead of butter and use a leaner protein, this meal becomes a heart-healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on taste.

By making small swaps, like using whole-grain rice or a lower-sodium broth, you can easily tailor this meal to fit your dietary needs.

Preparation Time, Servings, and Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4

Estimated Nutrition Per Serving

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fats: 18g
• Fiber: 4g

These numbers may vary depending on the type of sausage and rice you use, but overall, this dish provides a well-balanced meal with protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

Ingredients List

To make this delicious Sausage, Pepper & Rice Skillet, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Skillet

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

If you want to customize the dish, you can swap out the smoked sausage for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even shrimp. You can also add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for more nutrition.

Step-By-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
• Once the oil is hot, add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in diced onion, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for another 2 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.

2. Add the Rice and Seasonings

• Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil and flavors.
• Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth.
• Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Simmer Until Rice is Tender

• Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil.
• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and absorbs all the liquid.

4. Fluff and Serve

• Remove from heat and let the skillet sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
• Fluff the rice with a fork and stir everything together.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired.

How to Serve

This Sausage, Pepper & Rice Skillet is already a well-balanced dish on its own, but there are plenty of ways to make it even more enjoyable. Whether you’re serving it as a hearty dinner or packing it for meal prep, here are some delicious serving ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Classic Family-Style Dinner

For a comforting and satisfying meal, serve this dish straight from the skillet onto plates. The combination of smoky sausage, tender rice, and sweet bell peppers makes it perfect as-is. Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor and presentation.

2. With a Side of Crusty Bread

A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish. The soft interior and crispy crust of the bread soak up any remaining juices in the skillet, making each bite even more flavorful.

3. Topped with a Fried Egg

For an extra protein boost and a rich, velvety texture, try serving this dish with a fried or poached egg on top. The runny yolk adds a delicious creaminess that complements the spices in the rice.

4. Served with a Light Salad

To add freshness and balance out the richness of the dish, serve it alongside a light salad. A simple cucumber and tomato salad with a lemon vinaigrette or a crisp arugula salad with a touch of olive oil and balsamic vinegar works beautifully.

5. Wrapped in a Tortilla

Turn this dish into a hearty wrap or burrito by spooning the rice mixture into a large tortilla. Add some shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for an easy handheld meal.

6. As a Stuffed Bell Pepper Filling

For a fun twist, use this skillet mixture as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. Simply hollow out bell peppers, stuff them with the rice and sausage mixture, top with cheese, and bake until the peppers are tender and the cheese is melted.

7. Served Over Greens

For a low-carb option, serve the sausage and pepper mixture over a bed of wilted spinach or sautéed kale. The greens soak up all the delicious flavors from the skillet, creating a nutrient-dense meal.

8. With Roasted Vegetables

If you want to add even more veggies to your meal, serve this dish with a side of roasted zucchini, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts. The caramelized edges of the roasted vegetables add depth and texture to the dish.

With these versatile serving ideas, you can enjoy this Sausage, Pepper & Rice Skillet in different ways throughout the week, making it a meal you’ll never get tired of.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing the right side dishes, drinks, and accompaniments can enhance the flavors of this dish even more. Whether you’re serving it for a casual dinner or a special gathering, these pairings will take your meal to the next level.

Best Side Dishes

• Roasted Garlic Green Beans – The mild, slightly sweet flavor of green beans complements the smoky, savory notes of the sausage.
• Cornbread or Dinner Rolls – A soft, slightly sweet bread works well to balance out the bold flavors of the dish.
• Crispy Roasted Potatoes – If you love carbs, try serving this dish with some crispy, seasoned potatoes on the side.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob – Adds a smoky sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spices in the skillet.

Best Drinks to Serve with This Dish

• Homemade Lemonade – The acidity of lemonade cuts through the richness of the sausage and rice, making each bite taste fresh.
• Iced Tea with Mint – A refreshing, slightly sweet iced tea pairs wonderfully with the spices in the dish.
• Sparkling Water with Citrus – For a light and fizzy option, serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or lime slices.

For a Special Occasion

If you’re serving this dish for a gathering or special dinner, consider pairing it with a light tomato soup as a starter or a fruit salad for a refreshing finish.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and freezer. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful for later:

How to Store Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To maintain the best texture, store the rice and sausage mixture separately from any garnishes (such as parsley or cheese).

To Freeze

• Portion the meal into individual servings in freezer-safe containers.
• Label the containers with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, use a vacuum-sealed bag or double-wrap the container in plastic wrap before freezing.

To Reheat

• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Oven: Bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy this dish just as fresh and delicious as when it was first made.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this is a simple dish, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Skipping the Browning Step

Browning the sausage first creates a deeper flavor and helps caramelize the meat. If you skip this step, the dish may lack depth.

2. Adding Too Much Liquid

Rice absorbs liquid differently, so always measure carefully. Adding too much broth can make the dish too mushy.

3. Cooking Over High Heat

Rice needs gentle simmering to become tender. Cooking on high heat can cause the liquid to evaporate too quickly, leaving the rice undercooked.

4. Forgetting to Let the Rice Rest

Letting the skillet sit covered for a few minutes after cooking allows the rice to fully absorb flavors and moisture.

5. Using the Wrong Type of Rice

Long-grain rice works best. Short-grain rice can become too sticky, while brown rice requires a longer cooking time.

Pro Tips

For the best results, keep these pro tips in mind:

• Use a Heavy-Bottomed Skillet – This ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
• Add Extra Veggies – Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach can add even more nutrients.
• Try a Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Use Leftover Rice – If you have cooked rice on hand, reduce the broth amount and adjust cooking time.
• Make it a One-Pot Meal – If using raw chicken or shrimp instead of sausage, cook it first, set it aside, then proceed with the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the sausage for chickpeas, black beans, or tofu for a plant-based version.

2. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, but adjust the liquid and cooking time. Brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cook time.

3. Can I make it in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours.

4. How can I add more protein?

Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or even an egg on top for extra protein.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now that you have everything you need to make this Sausage, Pepper & Rice Skillet, it’s time to head to the kitchen! This recipe is easy, flavorful, and perfect for busy nights, making it a dish you’ll want to make again and again.

If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out! Leave a comment, share your photos, or tag me on social media. I’d love to see your delicious creations!

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