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Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet – Easy One-Pan Dinner Recipe

Looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner? This Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder loaded with savory sausage, tender rice, colorful veggies, and a cheesy finish. It’s comforting, filling, and comes together in under 40 minutes—perfect for busy nights when you want a hearty homemade meal without the mess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Meal – Easy cleanup since everything cooks in a single skillet.
Full of Flavor – Italian sausage brings richness, while tomatoes and seasonings add depth.
Customizable – Swap proteins, grains, or veggies to suit your taste.
Family-Friendly – A hearty dish loved by kids and adults alike.

Ingredients for Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing.
1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed) – use mild or hot based on preference.
1 onion, chopped – adds natural sweetness.
2 cloves garlic, minced – for flavor.
1 bell pepper, chopped – red, yellow, or green for color and crunch.
1 cup long-grain white rice – absorbs all the savory flavors.
2 cups chicken broth – keeps rice moist and flavorful.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – adds tang and texture.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – classic herbs like oregano and basil.
Salt and pepper to taste – season to your liking.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – creamy, cheesy finish.
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – for garnish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Add Italian sausage (casings removed) and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. This should take about 5–7 minutes.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Rice & Liquids

Stir in 1 cup rice, 2 cups chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Step 5: Simmer

Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 6: Stir in Cheese

Once rice is cooked, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined.

Step 7: Serve & Garnish

Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley if desired.

Variations & Tips

Make it Spicy – Use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes.
Healthier Grain Options – Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa (adjust liquid & cooking time).
Add More Veggies – Toss in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms near the end of cooking.
Cheesy Upgrade – Sprinkle mozzarella on top and broil for 2–3 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well in the fridge for 3–4 days; perfect for leftovers.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet with:

A fresh garden salad 🥗
Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread 🥖
A glass of red wine 🍷 for a cozy dinner

Nutrition Information (Approx. per serving – 6 servings)

Calories: 390 kcal
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g

Final Thoughts

This Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet is everything you need in a comforting one-pan dinner—savory, cheesy, and satisfying. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights that the whole family will love.

Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet