Description
This Cheesy Sausage and Rice recipe is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Juicy smoked sausage is browned and combined with sautéed veggies, tender white rice, and melted cheddar cheese for a creamy, comforting dish packed with savory goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Rice and Seasoning
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
Finishing Touches
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5 minutes.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion and chopped bell pepper to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Combine Rice and Seasonings: Pour in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, paprika, black pepper, and salt if using. Stir everything together to combine evenly.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely and creates a creamy texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally sprinkle with chopped parsley for freshness and serve the dish warm for the best flavor and comfort.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage or kielbasa as a lighter alternative to smoked sausage.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat in the dish.
- For an even creamier texture, stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream or cream cheese before adding the cheddar cheese.
