Cheesy Sausage & Rice

Comfort food has a way of bringing people together, and this Cheesy Sausage & Rice recipe is one of my all-time favorites for that reason. It’s hearty, simple to make, and always delivers big on flavor. Whether I’m cooking for my family on a busy weeknight or making something cozy for a chilly weekend evening, this dish hits the spot. The smoky sausage, creamy cheese, and perfectly tender rice come together in one pan for a dinner that feels indulgent without being complicated.

I especially love how flexible this recipe is. You can keep it classic or tweak it to suit what you have in your fridge. Plus, it’s a great way to stretch ingredients into a filling meal. I’ve found it to be a real crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters enjoy. If you’re craving something rich, savory, and soul-warming, this is the dish for you.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage & Rice

This recipe has everything you want in a quick dinner: bold flavor, minimal cleanup, and satisfying textures. It’s all cooked in one skillet, so you save time on dishes. The smokiness of the sausage pairs beautifully with the gooey cheese and the soft rice, creating a balanced comfort meal.

You’ll also love how easy it is to scale up for a bigger group or store leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s a true family-friendly favorite that fits into your weekly meal plan without stress.

What Kind of Sausage Should I Use?

You can use any fully-cooked smoked sausage you prefer — kielbasa, andouille, or even turkey sausage work well. I like a sausage with a bold, savory flavor that browns nicely in the skillet. Just slice it thin so it caramelizes a bit on the edges while cooking, which adds depth to the final dish.

Options for Substitutions

If you don’t have smoked sausage, ground sausage or even leftover chicken can step in. You can swap the cheese too — cheddar is my go-to, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack add a nice twist. Want to make it vegetarian? Replace the sausage with mushrooms or a plant-based meat alternative and use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.

You can also add extras like frozen peas, corn, or chopped spinach for more veggies. The base of this dish is super flexible, which makes it easy to customize with what you have on hand.

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Ingredients for This Cheesy Sausage & Rice

• Smoked Sausage – The star of the dish. It brings a smoky, savory depth and browns beautifully in the skillet.
• Uncooked Long Grain White Rice – Absorbs the flavors of the broth and sausage, and turns creamy when combined with cheese.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the rice, adding a rich, gooey texture that binds everything together.
• Bell Peppers (red and green) – Offer a pop of sweetness and color to balance the richness.
• Yellow Onion – Builds the aromatic base and adds mild sweetness.
• Garlic Cloves – Enhances the overall flavor with a savory kick.
• Chicken Broth – Infuses the rice with flavor as it cooks.
• Olive Oil or Butter – Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the sausage.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Basic seasoning to taste.
• Paprika (optional) – Adds a hint of smokiness and color.
• Fresh Parsley (optional) – For garnish and a bit of freshness at the end.

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Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by slicing your smoked sausage into thin rounds. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Add the sausage slices and cook them until they’re browned and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onions and bell peppers. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Seasoning

Stir in the uncooked rice, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Mix everything together so the rice is coated in the oil and spices. Toasting the rice slightly at this stage boosts the flavor.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth

Add the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it cook undisturbed for about 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. It will melt into the rice, creating a creamy, cheesy texture that brings everything together.

Step 6: Add Back the Sausage

Return the browned sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Let everything sit for a few minutes so the sausage heats through and the flavors meld.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot straight from the skillet. It’s best enjoyed warm when the cheese is perfectly melted and the sausage is juicy.

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How Long to Prepare the Cheesy Sausage & Rice

Preparing this dish is surprisingly quick for how flavorful it turns out. You’ll need about 10 minutes of prep time — chopping vegetables, slicing sausage, and gathering your ingredients. If you're a quick chopper, even less!

For cooking, the total time is around 30 minutes, depending on your stove. The rice takes about 18–20 minutes to cook, and the rest of the time is spent sautéing, simmering, and stirring in cheese. It’s a weeknight-friendly meal you can start and finish within 40 minutes.

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Tips for Perfect Cheesy Sausage & Rice

• Use smoked sausage for max flavor – It adds a rich, savory base without needing lots of extra spices.
• Don’t skip browning the sausage – That caramelization adds depth.
• Toast the rice slightly before adding broth for a nuttier flavor.
• Use freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting.
• Keep the lid on while the rice simmers to trap steam and cook evenly.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using the wrong rice – Instant or short-grain rice may become mushy. Stick to long-grain white rice.
• Lifting the lid while cooking the rice – This lets steam escape and affects the texture.
• Overcrowding the sausage – Brown it in batches if needed to avoid steaming.
• Adding cheese too early – Wait until the rice is fully cooked or it will clump.
• Not seasoning properly – Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

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What to Serve With Cheesy Sausage & Rice?

1. Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the cheesy rice.

2. Roasted Broccoli

The charred edges of roasted broccoli add a nice contrast and extra veggies.

3. Garlic Bread

Great for scooping up cheesy bites and adding a little crunch.

4. Pickled Vegetables

Something tangy like pickled onions or cucumbers can brighten the meal.

5. Fried Eggs

Top each serving with a fried egg for a brunch-style twist.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up.

Freezing: This dish also freezes well. Let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450–500
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of rice should I use?

Long-grain white rice works best for this recipe. It stays fluffy and absorbs flavors without becoming sticky.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well. Make it the day before, store it in the fridge, and warm it gently on the stove or microwave with a bit of broth.

Can I use brown rice instead?

You can, but the cooking time will increase significantly. Use more broth and simmer for 40–45 minutes.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes — as long as your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free. Always double-check labels.

Can I make it spicy?

Absolutely! Use a spicy sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when cooking the vegetables.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Sausage & Rice is everything I love in a go-to comfort food: quick, hearty, flavorful, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you stick to the classic or add your own twist, it’s a dish that never disappoints. The combination of smoky sausage, melty cheese, and tender rice is simply irresistible — and the best part? It’s all made in one pan. Simple ingredients, bold results. This is one meal you'll keep coming back to.

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