If you’re searching for a vibrant, hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor and color, this Sauteed Sausage, Shrimp, and Vegetable Rice Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the smoky richness of turkey kielbasa, tender shrimp, crisp bell peppers, and juicy cherry tomatoes with perfectly seasoned rice, this dish comes together in one skillet for easy, fuss-free cooking. It’s a celebration of textures and tastes that will quickly become a favorite for busy weeknights or anytime you crave something comforting yet impressive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may be simple, but they pack a punch of flavor and texture that makes this skillet recipe shine. Each component contributes a layer of taste, from the savory sausage to the fresh scallions that brighten every bite.
- 13 oz turkey kielbasa: Choose a good-quality kielbasa sliced thin for even browning and rich flavor infusion.
- 1 lb raw, deveined shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp ensure a tender, juicy seafood touch.
- 2 bell peppers, diced: Use colorful bell peppers to add vibrant color and sweetness.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds aromatic depth and sweetness as it caramelizes.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: These burst with juicy freshness that balances the savory elements.
- 3 scallions, chopped: Bright and sharp, they finish the dish with a lovely herbal note.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a beautiful reddish tint.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the sausage.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances onion flavor for a more rounded taste.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste: Essential for balancing and amplifying all the flavors.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, plus more for heat: Provides a friendly kick, adjustable to your spice preference.
- 1.5 cups raw white rice: The comforting base that soaks up all those delicious juices.
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth: Adds savory moisture without overpowering the dish.
- Olive oil spray: Keeps everything from sticking and helps develop nice browning.
How to Make Sauteed Sausage, Shrimp, and Vegetable Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Kielbasa
Start by slicing the turkey kielbasa into thin 1/4-inch rounds. This ensures each piece cooks evenly and releases maximum flavor when sautéed. Spray your Dutch oven or large pot lightly with olive oil spray and warm it over medium-high heat. Add the kielbasa in a single layer and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until golden and crispy on the edges. This browning step is crucial to develop that deeply satisfying, smoky taste.
Step 2: Add and Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced bell peppers and onion with the kielbasa. Let these cook together for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally so the veggies soften up and release their natural juices. These vegetables form the aromatic base for your skillet, creating a wonderful balance of sweetness and fragrance.
Step 3: Deglaze the Pot and Season
Use a wooden spoon to scrape all those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of your pot – don’t skip this step because it will deepen the flavor profile of your dish. Sprinkle in paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Stir everything well so that those spices coat all the ingredients evenly, building complex layers of seasoning.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Start Cooking Rice
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, letting their juices mingle with the spice-coated vegetables. Then add the raw white rice, tossing it gently to absorb the flavorful mixture. Pour in the reduced sodium chicken broth and give everything a thorough stir. Bring the pot to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has soaked up all that delicious broth.
Step 5: Add Shrimp and Scallions
Once the rice is cooked, nestle the raw shrimp on top of the mixture. Cover the pot again and allow the shrimp to steam gently for about 5 minutes until they turn opaque and perfectly firm. Finally, sprinkle the chopped scallions over the dish, folding them in to infuse a fresh, sharp bite right before serving.
Step 6: Final Seasoning Touches
This is where you give your creation one last taste test. Adjust the salt or cayenne pepper according to your heat and seasoning preference. That final adjustment turns a great dish into an unforgettable one.
How to Serve Sauteed Sausage, Shrimp, and Vegetable Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the rustic charm of your skillet, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro for a bright, herbal finish. A wedge of lemon on the side encourages diners to add a zesty pop that highlights the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
Side Dishes
This skillet works wonderfully as a one-pan meal but could be paired with a crisp green salad or steamed broccoli for extra veggies. Crusty bread is also a fantastic choice, perfect for mopping up any savory juices left behind.
Creative Ways to Present
If you really want to impress, serve this skillet recipe family-style right in your Dutch oven at the table. The vibrant colors and sizzling aromas invite everyone to dig in together, making it feel cozy and festive. For a special touch, spoon the dish into individual bowls garnished with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sauteed Sausage, Shrimp, and Vegetable Rice Skillet Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. Place the cooled rice skillet into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the rice seems dry. Stir occasionally to warm evenly and avoid overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While turkey kielbasa works wonderfully here, feel free to swap in your favorite smoked sausage or andouille for a slightly different flavor profile.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild kick thanks to the cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding more or less based on your taste preferences.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook and may require more liquid, so adjust cooking times and broth quantity accordingly.
How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and firm to the touch, usually about 5 minutes when gently steamed in the covered skillet.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, omit the sausage and shrimp, and add hearty vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms with extra seasoning for depth.
Final Thoughts
This Sauteed Sausage, Shrimp, and Vegetable Rice Skillet Recipe is a fantastic way to bring together simple ingredients into something truly special and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a flavorful weeknight winner, this dish delivers in every way. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes one of your favorite meals to make and share!
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Sauteed Sausage, Shrimp, and Vegetable Rice Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet is a hearty one-pot meal blending smoky turkey kielbasa, succulent shrimp, and tender rice cooked with vibrant bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a flavorful and comforting dinner that comes together easily on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Meats and Seafood
- 13 oz turkey kielbasa, sliced into 1/4″ rounds
- 1 lb raw, deveined shrimp
Vegetables
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 scallions, chopped
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, plus more to taste for heat
Other Ingredients
- 1.5 cups raw white rice
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare Kielbasa: Slice the turkey kielbasa into 1/4-inch rounds to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor release during sautéing.
- Heat Pot: Lightly spray the bottom of a Dutch oven or large pot with olive oil spray and heat over medium-high heat to prepare for browning the kielbasa.
- Cook Kielbasa: Add the kielbasa slices to the hot pot and cook for about 10 minutes until browned and flavorful, allowing fat to render and enhance the taste.
- Add Vegetables: Dice the bell peppers and onion, then add them to the pot with the kielbasa, building aromatic depth.
- Sauté Vegetables: Cook the peppers and onion for 10 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally to soften and release moisture that deglazes the pot.
- Scrape Pot: Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot as the vegetable moisture loosens them, adding great flavor.
- Season: Add paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt to the mixture, stirring to evenly incorporate the spices throughout the sautéed ingredients.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, combining them with the spices and vegetables for a juicy, fresh element.
- Add Rice and Broth: Pour in the raw white rice and stir to coat in the flavors. Then add the reduced sodium chicken broth, mixing everything well to combine.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot, reduce heat to a simmer, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the raw shrimp to the pot over the cooked rice mixture. Stir gently, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and firm.
- Add Scallions: Chop the scallions and toss them into the pot, mixing gently to incorporate their fresh sharpness into the dish.
- Final Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning by adding extra salt or cayenne pepper to achieve your preferred level of heat before serving.
Notes
- Use turkey kielbasa for a leaner sausage option; regular kielbasa will also work.
- Adjust cayenne pepper to control spice level.
- Ensure shrimp is deveined and peeled for best texture.
- Using reduced sodium chicken broth helps control the saltiness of the dish.
- This one-pot dish can be garnished with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon for extra brightness.
