Description
Looking for a quick, one-skillet dinner that’s rich, comforting, and loaded with flavor? This Cheesy Sausage & Rice recipe is your go-to. With smoky sausage, melty cheddar, and tender rice all cooked together, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. This dish is incredibly flexible and fits into categories like quick dinner, easy recipe, comfort food, dinner ideas, and one-pot meals. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this hearty, cheesy dish is guaranteed to satisfy.
Ingredients
1 lb smoked sausage
1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 green bell pepper, chopped
1 small yellow onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
1 tbsp olive oil or butter
1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Slice the smoked sausage into thin rounds. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high and brown the sausage slices until crisp on the edges. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Stir in the uncooked rice, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to coat the rice.
4. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Turn off heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
6. Add the browned sausage back to the skillet and mix to combine. Let sit for a couple minutes to warm through.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley if using. Serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting consistency.
Don’t lift the lid while the rice is cooking to avoid disrupting steam.
For extra flavor, toast the rice before adding broth.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg