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Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet Delightful and Simple Dish

by on March 28, 2025

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Looking for a quick and tasty meal? Let me share my recipe for Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet! This simple dish brings together savory Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, and gooey cheese in one pan. It’s perfect for busy nights or any time you crave comfort food. Join me as we dive into the easy steps and tips to make this flavorful delight your new favorite meal!

- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) - 1 cup onion, chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste The main ingredients in this dish bring together rich flavors and textures. The Italian sausage really adds heartiness to the meal. I love using long-grain rice because it cooks evenly and absorbs all the tasty broth. The bell peppers and onion provide a sweet crunch, while garlic powder and Italian seasoning create a warm flavor. You can’t forget the cheese! It melts into creamy goodness, making every bite delightful. Olive oil helps cook the veggies perfectly and adds a nice richness. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to enhance all these flavors. - Variations in cheese types - Additional vegetables You can switch up the cheese for something different, like mozzarella or pepper jack. These options change the taste and texture of the dish. If you want more veggies, consider adding spinach or zucchini. These ingredients not only boost nutrition but also add more color. Feel free to get creative! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Heating ingredients in skillet Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This helps to get a nice base for your dish. 2. Cooking sausage until browned Add one pound of Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it for about 7 to 10 minutes. You want it browned and no longer pink. This step adds great flavor to your dish. 1. Toasting rice with sausage Once the sausage is browned, stir in one cup of long-grain rice. Mix it well with the sausage and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This toasting step brings out the rice's nutty flavor. 2. Adding chicken broth and seasoning Next, pour in two cups of chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add one teaspoon of garlic powder and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Bring this mixture to a boil. 1. Simmering the dish After it boils, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the tasty liquid and become tender. 2. Mixing in cheese When the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in two cups of shredded cheese until it melts and becomes creamy. This makes your dish rich and delicious. Enjoy your Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet! It’s an easy and tasty meal everyone will love. Achieving the right rice texture To get fluffy rice, rinse it before cooking. This removes excess starch. Use long-grain rice for a light and airy texture. Stir the rice gently while it toasts in the skillet. This helps it absorb flavors without getting mushy. Tips for sausage selection Use high-quality Italian sausage. Fresh sausage gives the best flavor. If you want a kick, try spicy sausage. For a milder dish, use sweet sausage. Always remove the casings for easy cooking and better blending with the rice. Creative plating ideas Serve the dish straight from the skillet for a cozy look. You can also scoop it into bowls. Top with extra cheese and fresh parsley for color. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a pop of color and heat. Pairing with side dishes This dish pairs well with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with lemon dressing complements the flavors. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make a great side too. Consider a light vegetable side to balance the richness of the cheese. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh bell peppers and onions to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Cheese Choice Matters: Experiment with different cheese blends; mozzarella adds a stretchy quality while gouda gives a smoky flavor. Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice for a few minutes before adding the broth brings out a nutty flavor that elevates the dish. Garnish for Color: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also provides a fresh taste that balances the richness of the cheese and sausage. {{image_2}} You can easily swap the sausage type in this recipe. Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a healthier choice. Each type brings its own unique flavor. For rice alternatives, use brown rice or quinoa. These options add more fiber and nutrients. Just remember, cooking times may change slightly with different grains. Spicy variations are fun to try! Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat. You can also use spicy sausage to amp up the flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils. Replace the sausage with mushrooms to keep that hearty feel. This way, you still enjoy a rich dish without meat. To keep your Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. You can also use plastic wrap or foil. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This helps avoid extra moisture inside. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can use the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place a portion in a bowl. Add a splash of water to help it steam. Heat it in 30-second bursts until hot. For stovetop, warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. Add a little broth or water if it feels dry. This keeps the texture just right and creamy. Can I use instant rice instead? Yes, you can use instant rice. Just reduce the cooking time and follow package directions for water. Instant rice cooks much faster than long-grain rice. How do I make it more cheesy? To make it more cheesy, add more shredded cheese at the end. You can also mix different cheese types for extra flavor. Cream cheese or a cheese sauce can give it a creamy touch too. Can this be made in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and veggies first. Then combine everything in the slow cooker with broth and cook on low for 4 hours. Can I add more vegetables? Yes, you can add more vegetables. Try adding spinach, zucchini, or corn. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook well in the skillet. Is this dish gluten-free? This dish is not gluten-free due to the rice. However, you can use gluten-free rice or quinoa as a substitute. Always check labels to ensure your products are gluten-free. Options for low-fat versions? For a low-fat version, use turkey sausage or chicken sausage. You can also reduce the cheese or use a low-fat cheese option. Substitute some broth for water to keep moisture without added fat. This blog covers a delicious dish using simple ingredients like sausage, rice, and cheese. You learned the steps to prepare, combine, and cook each element for the best flavor. I shared tips for perfecting texture and creative serving ideas too. Don’t shy away from experimenting with variations! Substitute ingredients or try new flavors. Whether you’re storing leftovers or reheating, keeping the taste and texture intact is key. Enjoy making this dish often, as it’s easy and satisfying.

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in a single skillet, which means easy cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
  3. Cheesy Goodness: With two cups of melted cheese, this dish is creamy, comforting, and absolutely delicious.
  4. Customizable: You can easily substitute ingredients like different veggies or sausage types to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients List

– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed

– 1 cup long-grain rice

– 2 cups chicken broth

– 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)

– 1 cup onion, chopped

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

The main ingredients in this dish bring together rich flavors and textures. The Italian sausage really adds heartiness to the meal. I love using long-grain rice because it cooks evenly and absorbs all the tasty broth. The bell peppers and onion provide a sweet crunch, while garlic powder and Italian seasoning create a warm flavor.

You can’t forget the cheese! It melts into creamy goodness, making every bite delightful. Olive oil helps cook the veggies perfectly and adds a nice richness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to enhance all these flavors.

Optional Ingredients

– Variations in cheese types

– Additional vegetables

You can switch up the cheese for something different, like mozzarella or pepper jack. These options change the taste and texture of the dish. If you want more veggies, consider adding spinach or zucchini. These ingredients not only boost nutrition but also add more color. Feel free to get creative!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Steps

1. Heating ingredients in skillet

Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This helps to get a nice base for your dish.

2. Cooking sausage until browned

Add one pound of Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it for about 7 to 10 minutes. You want it browned and no longer pink. This step adds great flavor to your dish.

Combining Ingredients

1. Toasting rice with sausage

Once the sausage is browned, stir in one cup of long-grain rice. Mix it well with the sausage and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This toasting step brings out the rice’s nutty flavor.

2. Adding chicken broth and seasoning

Next, pour in two cups of chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add one teaspoon of garlic powder and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Bring this mixture to a boil.

Final Cooking Processes

1. Simmering the dish

After it boils, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the tasty liquid and become tender.

2. Mixing in cheese

When the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in two cups of shredded cheese until it melts and becomes creamy. This makes your dish rich and delicious.

Enjoy your Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet! It’s an easy and tasty meal everyone will love.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Dish

Achieving the right rice texture

To get fluffy rice, rinse it before cooking. This removes excess starch. Use long-grain rice for a light and airy texture. Stir the rice gently while it toasts in the skillet. This helps it absorb flavors without getting mushy.

Tips for sausage selection

Use high-quality Italian sausage. Fresh sausage gives the best flavor. If you want a kick, try spicy sausage. For a milder dish, use sweet sausage. Always remove the casings for easy cooking and better blending with the rice.

Serving Suggestions

Creative plating ideas

Serve the dish straight from the skillet for a cozy look. You can also scoop it into bowls. Top with extra cheese and fresh parsley for color. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a pop of color and heat.

Pairing with side dishes

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with lemon dressing complements the flavors. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make a great side too. Consider a light vegetable side to balance the richness of the cheese.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh bell peppers and onions to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
  2. Cheese Choice Matters: Experiment with different cheese blends; mozzarella adds a stretchy quality while gouda gives a smoky flavor.
  3. Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice for a few minutes before adding the broth brings out a nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
  4. Garnish for Color: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also provides a fresh taste that balances the richness of the cheese and sausage.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily swap the sausage type in this recipe. Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a healthier choice. Each type brings its own unique flavor.

For rice alternatives, use brown rice or quinoa. These options add more fiber and nutrients. Just remember, cooking times may change slightly with different grains.

Different Flavor Profiles

Spicy variations are fun to try! Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat. You can also use spicy sausage to amp up the flavor.

If you want a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils. Replace the sausage with mushrooms to keep that hearty feel. This way, you still enjoy a rich dish without meat.

Storage Info

Keeping Leftovers

To keep your Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. You can also use plastic wrap or foil. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This helps avoid extra moisture inside. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can use the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place a portion in a bowl. Add a splash of water to help it steam. Heat it in 30-second bursts until hot. For stovetop, warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. Add a little broth or water if it feels dry. This keeps the texture just right and creamy.

FAQs

Common Questions

Can I use instant rice instead?

Yes, you can use instant rice. Just reduce the cooking time and follow package directions for water. Instant rice cooks much faster than long-grain rice.

How do I make it more cheesy?

To make it more cheesy, add more shredded cheese at the end. You can also mix different cheese types for extra flavor. Cream cheese or a cheese sauce can give it a creamy touch too.

Cooking Method Clarifications

Can this be made in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and veggies first. Then combine everything in the slow cooker with broth and cook on low for 4 hours.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, you can add more vegetables. Try adding spinach, zucchini, or corn. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook well in the skillet.

Dietary Considerations

Is this dish gluten-free?

This dish is not gluten-free due to the rice. However, you can use gluten-free rice or quinoa as a substitute. Always check labels to ensure your products are gluten-free.

Options for low-fat versions?

For a low-fat version, use turkey sausage or chicken sausage. You can also reduce the cheese or use a low-fat cheese option. Substitute some broth for water to keep moisture without added fat.

This blog covers a delicious dish using simple ingredients like sausage, rice, and cheese. You learned the steps to prepare, combine, and cook each element for the best flavor. I shared tips for perfecting texture and creative serving ideas too.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with variations! Substitute ingredients or try new flavors. Whether you’re storing leftovers or reheating, keeping the taste and texture intact is key. Enjoy making this dish often, as it’s easy and satisfyin

- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed - 1 cup long-grain rice - 2 cups chicken broth - 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow) - 1 cup onion, chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend) - 2 tablespoons olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste The main ingredients in this dish bring together rich flavors and textures. The Italian sausage really adds heartiness to the meal. I love using long-grain rice because it cooks evenly and absorbs all the tasty broth. The bell peppers and onion provide a sweet crunch, while garlic powder and Italian seasoning create a warm flavor. You can’t forget the cheese! It melts into creamy goodness, making every bite delightful. Olive oil helps cook the veggies perfectly and adds a nice richness. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to enhance all these flavors. - Variations in cheese types - Additional vegetables You can switch up the cheese for something different, like mozzarella or pepper jack. These options change the taste and texture of the dish. If you want more veggies, consider adding spinach or zucchini. These ingredients not only boost nutrition but also add more color. Feel free to get creative! {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Heating ingredients in skillet Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This helps to get a nice base for your dish. 2. Cooking sausage until browned Add one pound of Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it for about 7 to 10 minutes. You want it browned and no longer pink. This step adds great flavor to your dish. 1. Toasting rice with sausage Once the sausage is browned, stir in one cup of long-grain rice. Mix it well with the sausage and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This toasting step brings out the rice's nutty flavor. 2. Adding chicken broth and seasoning Next, pour in two cups of chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add one teaspoon of garlic powder and one teaspoon of Italian seasoning for extra flavor. Bring this mixture to a boil. 1. Simmering the dish After it boils, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all the tasty liquid and become tender. 2. Mixing in cheese When the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in two cups of shredded cheese until it melts and becomes creamy. This makes your dish rich and delicious. Enjoy your Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet! It’s an easy and tasty meal everyone will love. Achieving the right rice texture To get fluffy rice, rinse it before cooking. This removes excess starch. Use long-grain rice for a light and airy texture. Stir the rice gently while it toasts in the skillet. This helps it absorb flavors without getting mushy. Tips for sausage selection Use high-quality Italian sausage. Fresh sausage gives the best flavor. If you want a kick, try spicy sausage. For a milder dish, use sweet sausage. Always remove the casings for easy cooking and better blending with the rice. Creative plating ideas Serve the dish straight from the skillet for a cozy look. You can also scoop it into bowls. Top with extra cheese and fresh parsley for color. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a pop of color and heat. Pairing with side dishes This dish pairs well with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with lemon dressing complements the flavors. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make a great side too. Consider a light vegetable side to balance the richness of the cheese. Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh bell peppers and onions to enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. Cheese Choice Matters: Experiment with different cheese blends; mozzarella adds a stretchy quality while gouda gives a smoky flavor. Toast the Rice: Toasting the rice for a few minutes before adding the broth brings out a nutty flavor that elevates the dish. Garnish for Color: Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also provides a fresh taste that balances the richness of the cheese and sausage. {{image_2}} You can easily swap the sausage type in this recipe. Try using chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a healthier choice. Each type brings its own unique flavor. For rice alternatives, use brown rice or quinoa. These options add more fiber and nutrients. Just remember, cooking times may change slightly with different grains. Spicy variations are fun to try! Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for heat. You can also use spicy sausage to amp up the flavor. If you want a vegetarian option, try using black beans or lentils. Replace the sausage with mushrooms to keep that hearty feel. This way, you still enjoy a rich dish without meat. To keep your Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet fresh, store it in an airtight container. You can also use plastic wrap or foil. Make sure it cools down before sealing. This helps avoid extra moisture inside. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, freeze it for up to 2 months. When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can use the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place a portion in a bowl. Add a splash of water to help it steam. Heat it in 30-second bursts until hot. For stovetop, warm it in a skillet over medium heat. Stir often to keep it from sticking. Add a little broth or water if it feels dry. This keeps the texture just right and creamy. Can I use instant rice instead? Yes, you can use instant rice. Just reduce the cooking time and follow package directions for water. Instant rice cooks much faster than long-grain rice. How do I make it more cheesy? To make it more cheesy, add more shredded cheese at the end. You can also mix different cheese types for extra flavor. Cream cheese or a cheese sauce can give it a creamy touch too. Can this be made in a slow cooker? Yes, you can make this dish in a slow cooker. Brown the sausage and veggies first. Then combine everything in the slow cooker with broth and cook on low for 4 hours. Can I add more vegetables? Yes, you can add more vegetables. Try adding spinach, zucchini, or corn. Just make sure to chop them small so they cook well in the skillet. Is this dish gluten-free? This dish is not gluten-free due to the rice. However, you can use gluten-free rice or quinoa as a substitute. Always check labels to ensure your products are gluten-free. Options for low-fat versions? For a low-fat version, use turkey sausage or chicken sausage. You can also reduce the cheese or use a low-fat cheese option. Substitute some broth for water to keep moisture without added fat. This blog covers a delicious dish using simple ingredients like sausage, rice, and cheese. You learned the steps to prepare, combine, and cook each element for the best flavor. I shared tips for perfecting texture and creative serving ideas too. Don’t shy away from experimenting with variations! Substitute ingredients or try new flavors. Whether you’re storing leftovers or reheating, keeping the taste and texture intact is key. Enjoy making this dish often, as it’s easy and satisfying.

Cheesy Sausage Rice Skillet

A delicious one-pan meal featuring Italian sausage, rice, and melted cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 500 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
  • 1 cup onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley

Instructions
 

  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and bell peppers, cooking until they become tender, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 7-10 minutes.
  • Stir in the garlic powder and Italian seasoning, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  • Add the long-grain rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the sausage mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly.
  • Pour in the chicken broth, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
  • Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Mix in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve in a large skillet directly on the table or in individual bowls. Top with extra cheese and a sprinkle of parsley for a vibrant finish.
Keyword cheesy, one pan, rice, sausage, skillet

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