A sizzling skillet of sausage and rice is the kind of weeknight dinner that tastes like it took hours, but comes together in under 30 minutes. This hearty one-pot wonder delivers on flavor and ease, perfect for those evenings when you want comfort food without the cleanup. Each spoonful brings a satisfying mix of savory sausage, perfectly cooked rice, and tender bell peppers.

This dish is incredibly flexible too. Use your favorite sausage—smoked, spicy, or even chicken—and toss in any veggies you have on hand. It’s a budget-friendly, belly-filling recipe that’s as great for busy weeknights as it is for next-day lunchboxes.
Ingredients for this One Pot Sausage And Rice Recipe
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove sausage from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they soften, then stir in the minced garlic and paprika. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the pan and stir well to coat it with the oil and spices. Let it toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, to add depth of flavor.
Step 4: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed the liquid.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Let it heat through for 2-3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may need extra liquid. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
What type of sausage works best?
Smoked sausage or kielbasa are great choices, but chicken sausage or spicy andouille work well too.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Swap the sausage for a plant-based version and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
How do I keep the rice from getting mushy?
Make sure to measure your liquid accurately and don’t over-stir while the rice is cooking.
Is this dish spicy?
Not inherently. Use mild sausage and go easy on the paprika for a milder version. Add hot sauce or red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Of course! Zucchini, peas, spinach, or mushrooms all make great additions.

The Best Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This Best Easy One Pot Sausage And Rice Recipe is your answer to quick dinner ideas that never compromise on flavor. It combines seared sausage rounds with soft rice and sweet bell peppers in one sizzling skillet. Whether you’re after an easy dinner, comforting food ideas, or a budget-friendly family meal, this dish checks all the boxes.
Perfect for busy nights or lazy weekends, it’s a go-to one-pot dinner option you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation. It’s also a great choice for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and satisfies even picky eaters with its savory, slightly smoky richness.
Ingredients
1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
1 cup long grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage slices and brown for 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add diced onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes. Stir in garlic and paprika; cook 1 minute.
- Add rice and stir to coat. Toast rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
- Return sausage to skillet. Stir and heat through. Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner