Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that brings bold flavor to your dinner table with very little fuss, Rice and Italian Sausage is the answer. Each spoonful is filled with tender rice, juicy sausage, colorful veggies, and a lush tomato base, all enveloped in aromatic Italian herbs. It’s the perfect cozy meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas and guarantees satisfied smiles—plus, you only need one pan! Trust me, after a single bite of this hearty classic, you’ll be adding Rice and Italian Sausage to your regular meal rotation.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Rice and Italian Sausage recipe so wonderful is how a few basic, everyday ingredients come together to create something truly special. Every element has its part to play, whether it’s adding a pop of flavor, a splash of color, or that perfect bite.

• Italian sausage: Choose between spicy or sweet, but either way it’s the star that infuses everything with savory depth.
• Olive oil: Just a splash to get things sizzling and add a subtle richness.
• Onion: Gives gentle sweetness and irresistible aroma as it cooks down.
• Bell pepper: Lends a fresh crunch and vivid color that makes this dish pop.
• Garlic: For that classic Italian kick that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Long-grain white rice: Delivers the perfect fluffy, tender texture to soak up every bit of flavor.
• Chicken broth: Adds savory notes and ensures the rice cooks up flavorful and moist.
• Diced tomatoes (with juice): Bring tangy brightness and help create a luscious sauce.
• Italian seasoning: The essential blend that ties the whole meal together with herbal magic.
• Red pepper flakes (optional): Toss them in for a gentle heat, or skip if you’d rather keep it mild.
• Salt and pepper: To taste, for a perfectly seasoned bite every time.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Finishing with this adds irresistible savory notes and a creamy sparkle.
• Chopped fresh parsley: A handful at the end brings color, freshness, and that final flourish.

How to Make Rice and Italian Sausage

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by warming the olive oil in a big skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (make sure the casings are removed), using a sturdy spoon to break it up into crumbles. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the sausage is deeply browned and cooked through, releasing all its wonderful flavor. If you notice a lot of grease, simply spoon out any excess so your finished dish isn’t oily.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Next, toss in the diced onion and bell pepper. Let them cook alongside the sausage for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The veggies will soften and soak up that flavorful sausage goodness. Now, add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for just one minute—you’ll know it’s time when your kitchen smells heavenly!

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Pour in the long-grain white rice, stirring well so every grain gets coated in the meaty, aromatic mix. This quick step helps develop a subtle, toasty flavor and ensures that the rice will absorb all the delicious juices as it cooks.

Step 4: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Now for the liquids! Pour in the chicken broth and the entire can of diced tomatoes, juice included. Give everything a good stir, then sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), and a generous pinch each of salt and pepper. This is when the magic really starts to happen, as the rice and tomatoes mingle with all the savory sausage flavors.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Turn up the heat and bring your Rice and Italian Sausage mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. The rice will become tender, soaking up every drop of broth, while the sausage and veggies meld beautifully together. Don’t peek too often—letting it steam undisturbed gives you the fluffiest rice!

Step 6: Rest, Fluff, and Finish

When the rice is perfectly tender and the liquid is absorbed, remove the pan from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to finish steaming. Fluff the mixture gently with a fork, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for that mouthwatering creamy finish. Sprinkle on the fresh parsley, and just like that, your Rice and Italian Sausage is ready to wow!

How to Serve Rice and Italian Sausage

Garnishes

Just before serving, a shower of extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley on top make this dish irresistible. You can also add thinly sliced green onions or a few fresh basil leaves for even more aroma and a pop of green.

Side Dishes

This skillet dinner is hearty enough to shine on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, crusty bread, or some roasted broccoli. A basket of garlic bread is a classic side, perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce from the Rice and Italian Sausage.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pack the warm mixture into roasted bell pepper halves and bake them for a few minutes until everything is bubbling and golden. You can also scoop the rice into bowls and top with crispy fried onions, fresh arugula, or even a soft-cooked egg for a brunch-friendly version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, keep Rice and Italian Sausage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to meld and deepen, making it an even cozier lunch the next day!

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well! Let it cool completely, then spoon portions into freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out any extra air, seal tight, and stash for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture.

Reheating

To bring Rice and Italian Sausage back to life, just reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir occasionally and heat until hot throughout, then enjoy all over again.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a great way to add a hearty, nutty note. Just remember, it takes longer to cook and needs a bit more liquid, so keep extra broth handy and plan for more simmering time.

Do you recommend spicy or sweet Italian sausage?

It depends on your cravings! Spicy sausage gives the Rice and Italian Sausage a bold kick, while sweet sausage lends a milder, classic Italian flavor. Try both and see which version becomes your house favorite.

Can I add extra vegetables?

Definitely! Mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or even peas are delicious additions. Toss them in when you add the bell pepper or wait until the last few minutes of cooking for more delicate veggies like spinach.

Will this work with other kinds of rice?

Long-grain white rice is classic, but jasmine or basmati rice offer a wonderful fragrance. Just watch the cooking time and adjust the liquid as needed—Rice and Italian Sausage is flexible that way!

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

For a meatless version, swap the Italian sausage for your favorite plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth. The flavors will still be hearty and satisfying, especially with all those aromatic veggies and Italian spices.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something comforting, colorful, and full of bold flavor, Rice and Italian Sausage is the family-friendly meal you’ve been searching for. It’s weeknight easy, endlessly adaptable, and always a hit at the table. Give it a try and see how quickly it disappears—there’s a good chance it’ll become a new favorite in your home too!

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