One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice

Looking for an easy and hearty meal that’s full of flavor? One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice is the answer! This delicious dish features smoky sausage, savory vegetables, and tender rice all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. The rich flavors from the sausage blend perfectly with the sweetness of the bell pepper and the savory tomato paste, creating a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Why One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice is So Irresistible

What makes One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice so irresistible is the smoky, juicy sausage that pairs perfectly with the fluffy rice and flavorful vegetables. The tomato paste and seasonings bring everything together, making each bite packed with savory goodness. Plus, since everything cooks together in one pan, it’s a simple and fuss-free recipe that saves time and effort while still delivering tons of flavor.

One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Sausage and Rice:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 12-14 ounce link hot smoked sausage (andouille, kielbasa, or your favorite smoked sausage), sliced into rounds
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) salted butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup diced celery
- 1/2 of a green bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 1 clove garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoons sugar
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups water
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
For the Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Guide to Making One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice

Here’s how to create this one-pan meal that’s sure to satisfy:

Cook the Sausage
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a 12-inch cast iron skillet or other oven-proof skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage rounds and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a plate, leaving the drippings in the pan.
Sauté the Vegetables
Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Make the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, kosher salt, sugar, and black pepper. Cook for 1 more minute to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer the Rice
Add the sausage back into the skillet along with the water and rice. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, for about 7-9 minutes, or until the liquid has reduced slightly. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet as you stir.
Bake the Dish
If you’re not using an oven-proof skillet, transfer the mixture to a greased 2-3 quart baking dish. Cover the skillet or baking dish and bake until the rice is tender, about 30-40 minutes. Stir the dish after the first 15 minutes to ensure the rice cooks evenly.
Finish and Serve
Once the rice is tender, remove the skillet or baking dish from the oven. Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Key Ingredients for Perfect One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice

To make this dish truly delicious, these ingredients are essential:

Smoked Sausage: Andouille, kielbasa, or any smoked sausage will add savory, smoky flavor to the dish.
Rice: Long-grain white rice works best, as it cooks up fluffy and absorbs the flavors of the dish perfectly.
Vegetables: Onion, celery, and bell pepper provide a nice mix of sweetness and crunch, enhancing the flavor profile of the dish.
Tomato Paste: Gives the dish a deep, rich flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
Seasonings: Kosher salt, sugar, and black pepper balance the flavors, while the sweetness of the sugar helps to mellow out the acidity of the tomato paste.

Exploring Variations for Your One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice

While this recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative! You can swap the smoked sausage for chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even chorizo for a spicier version. Add extra vegetables like peas, carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. For a smoky twist, try adding a few dashes of smoked paprika or hot sauce.

Tips for Perfect One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice Every Time

Use a heavy skillet: A cast iron skillet or Dutch oven is ideal for this recipe because it distributes heat evenly and helps prevent scorching.
Do not substitute rice types: Instant rice or brown rice will require different cooking times and amounts of liquid, so stick with long-grain white rice for the best results.
Keep an eye on the liquid: If the rice absorbs all the liquid before it’s fully cooked, add a bit more water and continue baking. Keep the rice covered tightly in the oven to ensure it cooks properly.
Stir occasionally: Even when the dish is baking, stir every 15 minutes or so to keep the rice fluffy and prevent it from sticking.

The Magic of One-Pan Meals

What makes One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice so wonderful is the fact that everything cooks together in one pan. The sausage flavors infuse into the rice, and the vegetables meld with the tomato paste to create a savory base. Plus, it’s quick and easy, making cleanup a breeze!

Nutritional Information for Health-Conscious Eaters

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for each serving of One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice (based on 5 servings):

Calories: 450-500 kcal
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Sugar: 5g

To make the dish lighter, you can use less butter or opt for a leaner sausage.

Storing and Freezing Your One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice

To Store: Let the dish cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To Freeze: Let the dish cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up in the oven or on the stovetop.

Serving Suggestions for One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice

This dish is hearty on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness. A light squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary will also add brightness and elevate the flavors.

Essential Cooking Tools and Equipment

For this recipe, you’ll need:

Large cast iron skillet or Dutch oven (oven-proof)
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Knife and cutting board for prepping the sausage and vegetables
Measuring spoons for the seasonings

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the sausage, vegetables, and rice ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. When ready to cook, combine everything in the skillet and bake.

Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can use any type of sausage, from turkey to chorizo, depending on your taste preferences.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to prevent the rice from drying out.

Quick and Easy One Pan Smoked Sausage and Rice Recipe