Smoked sausage and rice is an Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice recipe that brings comfort and flavor together effortlessly. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish combines savory smoked sausage with tender rice and fresh vegetables, all cooked in one pot for minimal cleanup. Its quick preparation makes it a go-to meal that can delight everyone at the table.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Sausage
- For the Vegetables
- For Cooking
- For the Rice
- How to Make Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Step 4: Simmer Until Done
- How to Serve Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Pair with Fresh Vegetables
- Add a Side Salad
- Include Bread Options
- How to Perfect Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Best Side Dishes for Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Reheating Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice?
- Can I use other types of sausage?
- How do I customize Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice?
- How long does Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice take to cook?
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to serve.
- One Pot Meal: Less mess means more time to enjoy with family and friends.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of spices adds depth to the dish, enhancing the taste of the sausage and rice.
- Versatile Dish: Customize with your favorite vegetables or different types of sausages based on what you have on hand.
- Family-Friendly: This meal appeals to both adults and kids, making it a hit for family dinners.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice, you’ll need a few essential tools. These will help streamline your cooking process and ensure everything comes out perfectly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large sauté pan or skillet with a lid
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Large sauté pan or skillet with a lid: This allows for even cooking of the ingredients while keeping moisture in during simmering.
- Cutting board: A stable surface is crucial for safely chopping vegetables and sausage.
- Sharp knife: Efficient chopping helps speed up prep time, making cooking quicker.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this satisfying Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice:
For the Sausage
- 14 ounces smoked sausage like kielbasa – sliced into rounds
For the Vegetables
- 1/2 cup onion diced (about 1/2 medium onion)
- 1 red bell pepper diced
For Cooking
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika will give more flavor if you have it)
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Rice
- 2 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 1 cup white rice long grain
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
How to Make Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the kielbasa into small rounds about ¼ inch thick.
- Dice the onion and bell pepper into small pieces between ¼ and ½ inch.
- In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper; set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
- In a large sauté pan or skillet with a lid, add one tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced kielbasa to the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on each side, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in chopped onions and sauté until they begin to brown and soften, another 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- To the pan, add chicken broth, rice, tomato paste, diced bell pepper, and mixed spices (paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, black pepper).
- Stir well until everything is fully combined.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer Until Done
- Once boiling, cover the pan with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer.
- Cook covered for 20-23 minutes until rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed; some liquid left is okay as long as rice isn’t runny.
- Top with fresh parsley or chopped green onions before serving—enjoy!
How to Serve Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
Serving Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice is simple and versatile. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides to enhance the meal. Here are some great suggestions for serving.
Pair with Fresh Vegetables
- Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds freshness and color to your plate.
- Sautéed Spinach – Quick sautéed spinach with olive oil provides a nutritious boost.
- Roasted Asparagus – Roasted asparagus adds a delightful crunch and flavor.
Add a Side Salad
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad complements the savory flavors of the sausage and rice.
- Greek Salad – This refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese pairs well with the dish.
- Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds texture and balances the richness of the meal.
Include Bread Options
- Garlic Bread – Warm garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce in your bowl.
- Dinner Rolls – Soft dinner rolls provide a comforting side that everyone loves.

How to Perfect Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
Perfecting your Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice is easy with a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions for best results.
- Use Quality Sausage – Choose high-quality smoked sausage for the best flavor and texture.
- Customize Your Veggies – Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for added nutrients.
- Adjust Spices to Taste – Experiment with spices according to your preference; add cayenne pepper for heat!
- Let It Rest Before Serving – Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking; it helps flavors meld together.
Best Side Dishes for Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
Pairing side dishes with Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement this recipe perfectly.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is a delightful addition that brings out the flavors in the dish.
- Baked Beans – Hearty baked beans offer a sweet contrast to the savory sausage.
- Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad makes a satisfying, cool side option.
- Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad can lighten up the meal beautifully.
- Macaroni and Cheese – Creamy mac and cheese is always a hit, especially with kids!
- Grilled Zucchini – Grilled zucchini adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with sausage and rice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious meal.
- Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their dish properly. Always mix spices before adding them to enhance flavor.
- Overcrowding the pan: If you add too many ingredients at once, the sausage may not brown properly. Cook in batches if necessary for better results.
- Using instant rice: Instant rice requires different liquid ratios. Stick to long-grain white rice for the best texture and taste.
- Not checking liquid levels: Ensure there’s enough liquid for the rice to cook thoroughly. If it looks dry, add a little more broth before covering.
- Ignoring resting time: Letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld and rice firm up slightly. Don’t rush this step!
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish with a splash of broth and cover with foil, reheating for about 20 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat with a little broth or water. Stir occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice?
Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice is a simple and flavorful dish made with smoked sausage, rice, vegetables, and spices cooked together in one pot.
Can I use other types of sausage?
Yes! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or any favorite variety you enjoy.
How do I customize Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice?
You can add vegetables like zucchini or spinach or switch up the spices based on your preference for varied flavors.
How long does Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice take to cook?
From start to finish, this recipe takes about 40 minutes including prep and cooking time.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead and store it in the refrigerator or freezer as mentioned earlier.
Final Thoughts
This Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice recipe is not only quick but also versatile, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With endless customization options, you can easily adapt it to suit your family’s tastes. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty meal that everyone will love!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
📖 Recipe Card
Print
Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Discover the joy of cooking with this Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice recipe, a perfect solution for busy weeknights or family gatherings. In just 40 minutes, you can whip up a hearty dish that combines savory smoked sausage, fluffy rice, and vibrant vegetables—all cooked together in one pot for minimal cleanup. The delightful blend of spices enhances the flavors, making it a family favorite that appeals to both kids and adults. Customize it with your choice of veggies or sausages to suit your taste. Enjoy a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 14 ounces smoked sausage (kielbasa), sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- paprika
- oregano
- garlic powder
- salt
- black pepper
Instructions
- Slice the kielbasa into rounds and dice the onion and bell pepper.
- In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and brown the sausage for about 5-6 minutes.
- Add onions and cook until softened, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in chicken broth, rice, tomato paste, bell pepper, and spices; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 20-23 minutes until rice is tender.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 490
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 60mg