If you are craving a comforting, flavorful one-pan meal that comes together in under 40 minutes, this Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with savory Italian sausage, tender rice, and vibrant veggies, it delivers a perfect balance of hearty and fresh flavors in every bite. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brightens up weeknights and leaves everyone asking for seconds, making it a true kitchen favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that pack a punch in flavor, texture, and color. Each component plays an essential role in creating a well-rounded dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: The foundation for sautéing, adding a subtle richness and helping to brown the sausage perfectly.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed): The star protein, offering bold, seasoned flavors that give this dish its distinctive Italian flair.
- 1 small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth to balance the sausage’s richness.
- 1 green bell pepper (diced): Brings a mild, crisp freshness and lovely green color.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a fragrant punch that enhances every ingredient.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Absorbs all the savory juices, turning tender and fluffy.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The cooking liquid that infuses extra flavor and moisture.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a warm, herbal note reflecting classic Italian seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For a gentle kick of heat that livens the dish.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing and balancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Throws in a savory, salty finish that melts into creamy bliss.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh and vibrant touch to complete the presentation.
How to Make Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon as it browns. This step builds a flavorful base with beautifully caramelized bits. Cook until the sausage is fully cooked and no longer pink. If there’s excess grease, drain it off to keep the dish from getting too oily.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in diced onion and green bell pepper. Let them cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and start to release their sweetness. Stir frequently to make sure everything cooks evenly. When the veggies are just right, mix in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds to awaken its aroma without burning.
Step 3: Add the Rice and Seasonings
Now stir in the uncooked rice, making sure each grain gets coated well with that lovely sausage and veggie mixture. Pour in the chicken broth along with oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This flavorful liquid is the key that transforms the rice into a tender, well-seasoned side.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice absorbs all the liquid and becomes fluffy. Avoid lifting the lid too often to keep the steam trapped inside, which cooks the rice perfectly.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Remove the pan from heat and leave it covered for 5 minutes to let the rice steam and firm up. Fluff the rice with a fork for lightness, then stir in Parmesan cheese if using, allowing it to melt through. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top—this final step adds pop of color and freshness that brightens the entire dish.
How to Serve Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
A simple handful of chopped fresh parsley elevates the dish with lively green hues and herbal freshness. For an extra touch, a little more grated Parmesan or even a squeeze of lemon juice can add brightness and complement the sausage’s richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe stands wonderfully on its own but pairs delightfully with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or a crusty Italian loaf also make great companions, soaking up any extra sauce and rounding out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish in vibrant, rustic bowls topped with a few whole basil leaves to add distinction and freshness. Stuffing the mixture into tender bell peppers and baking them makes a fun, colorful presentation that doubles the ways you can enjoy the recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This dish holds up well, with the flavors deepening overnight.
Freezing
If you want to save the Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe for longer, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags for up to 2 months. Label and date your containers for easy meal prep.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Adding a splash of broth or water before warming helps keep the rice moist and fluffy, just like the first time you made it.
FAQs
Can I use spicy Italian sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! Spicy Italian sausage adds a wonderful kick and depth of flavor, but if you prefer it milder, sweet Italian sausage works perfectly as well.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and sausage. Always check labels to be sure.
Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?
You can, but keep in mind brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly to ensure the rice cooks fully and remains tender.
What other vegetables can I add?
Spinach, diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini are great additions that complement the flavors and add extra nutrients and texture.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to use a good non-stick skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan, maintain the right liquid ratio, and avoid opening the lid frequently during cooking to trap steam effectively.
Final Thoughts
This Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels like a warm hug in every forkful. Its perfect blend of savory sausage, tender rice, and fresh vegetables makes it a reliable go-to for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd with minimal fuss. Give it a try and watch how it quickly becomes a staple in your own kitchen repertoire!
Print
Rice and Italian Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful Italian-American main dish featuring savory Italian sausage cooked with aromatic vegetables and tender white rice, all simmered together in chicken broth and finished with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 lb Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- chopped parsley for garnish
Pantry Staples
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain off any excess grease if needed.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the diced onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Rice and Seasonings: Stir in the long-grain white rice to coat it with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and allow it to simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the Parmesan cheese if using. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve the dish warm.
Notes
- For extra veggies, add spinach or diced tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
- You can use spicy or sweet Italian sausage depending on your preference for heat.
- To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the sausage and chicken broth are gluten-free certified.
- If substituting brown rice, increase liquid and cooking time accordingly as brown rice takes longer to cook.
