When life gets busy, there’s nothing more satisfying than a hearty, flavorful meal that comes together in one pot. This One Pot Smoked Sausage Rice is exactly that kind of recipe – comforting, delicious, and wonderfully simple. The smoky sausage infuses the entire dish with rich flavor while the rice soaks up all those delicious juices.
I developed this recipe on a particularly hectic weeknight when I needed something substantial that wouldn’t leave me with a sink full of dishes. The combination of savory sausage, tender rice, and colorful vegetables has since become a regular in our meal rotation – and I’m betting it will in yours too!
Why You’ll Love This
- True one-pot cooking means minimal cleanup – just one dish to wash!
- Ready in about 45 minutes with mostly hands-off cooking time
- Customizable with whatever vegetables you have on hand
- Perfect balance of protein, carbs, and vegetables in one complete meal
- Leftovers taste even better the next day for lunch
Ingredients
- 14 ounces smoked sausage (like kielbasa), sliced into rounds
- ½ cup yellow onion, diced (about ½ medium onion)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley or chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Slice the kielbasa into ¼-inch thick rounds. Dice the onion and bell pepper into small pieces between ¼ and ½ inch. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan or 12-inch skillet with a lid over medium-high heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on each side, stirring occasionally.
- Add diced onions to the pan with the sausage and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onions begin to brown and soften.
- Add chicken broth, rice, tomato paste, diced bell pepper, and the seasoning mixture to the pan. Stir well until everything is fully mixed and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, cover with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer. Cook covered for 20-23 minutes until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. The rice should be tender with minimal liquid remaining. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired and serve.
Tips & Variations
- Try different sausage varieties like andouille, kielbasa, or Italian sausage for unique flavor profiles.
- Add a can of diced tomatoes or a cup of frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition.
- For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers or increase the cayenne pepper.
- Brown rice can be substituted, but you’ll need to increase cooking time to about 40-45 minutes and add an extra 1/2 cup of broth.
- For a creamy variation, stir in 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This one-pot wonder is a complete meal on its own, but a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette makes for a perfect accompaniment. For a Southern-inspired meal, serve with a side of collard greens or cornbread to soak up any remaining sauce.
A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of hot sauce on top adds a delicious finishing touch for those who enjoy an extra layer of flavor.
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- The rice is done when all liquid is absorbed and grains are tender but not mushy.
- If rice seems too firm but liquid is absorbed, add 1/4 cup more broth or water, cover, and cook for a few more minutes.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! It reheats beautifully. Store in the refrigerator and microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead?
Definitely! Any pre-cooked sausage works well. Turkey or chicken sausage will make the dish lighter while still providing great flavor.
What if I don’t have bell peppers?
You can substitute with other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or carrots. Just adjust cooking time as needed for harder vegetables.
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