If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and easy to whip up, this Rice with Smoked Sausage Recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Combining smoky, savory sausage with tender, fluffy rice and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this dish delivers layers of taste and texture that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor or satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Rice with Smoked Sausage Recipe are delightfully simple yet essential, each adding its own magic to the final dish. From the richness of the smoked sausage to the brightness of fresh vegetables and the aromatic spices, every component plays a part in creating a balanced, mouthwatering meal.
- 1 cup long-grain rice: Provides a fluffy and light base that soaks up all the flavors beautifully.
- 2 1/4 cups chicken stock (divided): Adds depth and moisture, infusing the rice with savory goodness.
- 1 tablespoon butter (unsalted): Adds a silky richness that helps brown the sausage and soften the vegetables.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin): Helps cook the sausage and vegetables while enhancing the flavor.
- 12 ounces smoked sausage (about 4 medium links): The star ingredient that brings smoky, spicy notes and satisfying heartiness.
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor palette.
- 1 small red bell pepper (seeded and chopped): Brings a pop of color and a gentle crunch.
- 1 large stalk celery (chopped into half moons): Provides fresh, crisp texture and subtle earthiness.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Packs a punch of aroma and flavor that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory notes without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Complements the fresh garlic for a layered garlicky taste.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Boosts the smoky character while adding a mild peppery warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal complexity.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Brings a gentle heat that livens up the dish.
- Salt and cracked black pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that balance and brighten all the flavors.
How to Make Rice with Smoked Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by rinsing the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear—this helps remove excess starch and keeps your rice fluffy, never gummy. Combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of chicken stock in a saucepan and cook over medium heat according to the package instructions. When tender and the liquid is absorbed, fluff the rice with a fork and set it aside. Cooking the rice with stock instead of water immediately adds savory depth to the dish.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
Heat your skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter along with the olive oil. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until the slices are nicely browned and heated through, about 3 to 5 minutes. This browning step sears in flavor and gives the sausage that irresistible caramelized edge.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped yellow onion, red bell pepper, and celery. Cook them until they start to soften, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about a minute until fragrant. This combination creates a colorful, flavorful base that complements the smoky sausage perfectly.
Step 4: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, plus salt and cracked black pepper. Stir thoroughly to coat every bit of sausage and vegetables with the spices. This spice blend is what transforms this dish from simple to soul-warming.
Step 5: Deglaze and Combine
Add a splash of chicken stock to the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up those flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom. Then fold in the cooked rice and stir everything together. Keep cooking and stirring for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld beautifully. If the mixture appears dry, add a little more chicken stock to keep it moist and tender.
Step 6: Serve
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove from heat. Transfer your delicious rice and smoked sausage mixture to a serving dish and get ready to enjoy a truly satisfying meal.
How to Serve Rice with Smoked Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens the dish with a burst of green and fresh herbal notes that contrast wonderfully with the smoky richness. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice or a few sliced green onions for an extra layer of zing and color.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs exceptionally well with crisp green salads or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to balance out the richness with some crunch and freshness. For a heartier meal, cornbread or garlic bread on the side are fantastic companions that soak up any extra sauce beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn this recipe into a crowd-pleaser by serving it in individual ramekins and topping each with a fried egg for a fun brunch twist. Alternatively, stuff the mixture into roasted bell peppers or hollowed tomatoes for a colorful, impressive presentation that’s sure to wow guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it an ideal meal prep choice for busy weeks, and the flavors often develop even more beautifully overnight.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Rice with Smoked Sausage Recipe for longer, it freezes well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the rice seems a bit dry, add a splash of chicken stock or water and stir to revive its moist, fluffy texture. Cover the dish while reheating to keep all those wonderful aromas locked in.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage in this Rice with Smoked Sausage Recipe?
Absolutely! While smoked sausage adds a distinct depth and smoky flavor, you can experiment with kielbasa, andouille, or even spicy chorizo depending on your taste preference. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, provided you use gluten-free chicken stock and confirm that your smoked sausage does not contain gluten fillers, this rice and sausage recipe is naturally gluten-free and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
For a vegetarian option, swap the smoked sausage for a plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. Adjust spices to taste, and you’ll have a delicious meat-free version.
What rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and separate after cooking. Jasmine or basmati rice would both work beautifully, lending their subtle aromas to the dish.
How spicy is the recipe? Can I adjust the heat?
The cayenne pepper adds a moderate kick that can be adjusted up or down depending on your preference. If you want it milder, reduce or omit the cayenne altogether; for more heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something special about a dish like this Rice with Smoked Sausage Recipe—a comforting, easy-to-make meal packed with bold flavors and just the right textures. It’s a wonderful way to make a simple ingredient like rice feel like a celebration. Give it a try soon; I promise it will earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation!
Print
Rice with Smoked Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty Rice with Smoked Sausage recipe combines tender long-grain rice cooked in savory chicken stock with flavorful smoked sausage and a medley of sautéed vegetables, seasoned with a blend of spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner, it melds smoky, spicy, and aromatic flavors in one skillet meal.
Ingredients
Rice and Stock
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken stock (divided)
Fats and Oils
- 1 tablespoon butter (unsalted)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)
Sausage and Vegetables
- 12 ounces smoked sausage (about 4 medium links)
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped)
- 1 small red bell pepper (seeded and chopped)
- 1 large stalk celery (chopped into half moons)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Spices and Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and cracked black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of chicken stock. Cook over medium heat according to package instructions until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
- Brown the Sausage: Heat a medium heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat and melt the butter along with the olive oil. Add the smoked sausage slices to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and heated through, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped yellow onion, red bell pepper, and celery to the skillet. Cook the vegetables until they begin to soften, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately one minute.
- Season the Mixture: Sprinkle the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and cracked black pepper over the sausage and vegetables. Stir together well with a wooden spoon to evenly distribute the spices.
- Deglaze and Combine: Pour a small amount of chicken stock into the skillet to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom with the wooden spoon. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients. Continue cooking and stirring for another 2 to 3 minutes to allow flavors to meld, adding more chicken stock if the rice seems dry.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Transfer the rice mixture to a serving dish. Optionally, garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious smoked sausage rice dish!
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, helping to prevent clumping and resulting in separate, fluffy grains.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spice or omit for a milder dish.
- Use low-sodium chicken stock if you want more control over the salt content.
- Fresh parsley garnish adds a nice pop of color and freshness but is optional.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or chicken stock to maintain moisture.
