Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-Pot Smoked Sausage and Rice is a hearty, flavorful, and fuss-free meal that comes together quickly with minimal cleanup. Packed with smoky sausage, tender rice, and savory spices, it’s a family-friendly dish perfect for busy weeknights. Everything cooks in one pot, creating a comforting, well-balanced dinner in under an hour.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

smoked sausage (sliced)
long grain white rice
onion (chopped)
bell peppers (any color, diced)
garlic (minced)
chicken broth
olive oil or butter
paprika
salt
black pepper
optional: cayenne pepper, parsley, green onions for garnish

directions

Heat oil or butter in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.

Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.

In the same pot, sauté onions and bell peppers until softened.

Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.

Stir in uncooked rice and toast for 1–2 minutes.

Add chicken broth, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne if using. Stir well.

Return sausage to the pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Fluff rice, garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4–6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: 35–40 minutes

Variations

Use brown rice or quinoa (adjust cooking time and liquid).
Add canned tomatoes or tomato paste for a Creole twist.
Stir in spinach or peas for extra veggies.
Use kielbasa, turkey sausage, or andouille for different flavor profiles.

storage/reheating

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or in the microwave until hot.
Freeze for up to 2 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but reduce broth and skip the simmer—heat until warmed through.

Is this dish spicy?

It’s mild unless cayenne or spicy sausage is added.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally dairy-free if you use oil.

Can I use instant rice?

Not recommended—it may overcook and turn mushy.

What vegetables work well?

Zucchini, corn, tomatoes, or green beans are great add-ins.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, use a larger pot and increase cook time slightly if needed.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.

Why is my rice undercooked?

Make sure the pot is covered tightly and cook on low until all liquid is absorbed.

What kind of sausage is best?

Smoked kielbasa or andouille offers the best flavor, but any cooked sausage works.

Does it keep well for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well and makes a great grab-and-go meal.

Conclusion

One-Pot Smoked Sausage and Rice is the ultimate easy comfort food—savory, satisfying, and made with everyday ingredients. Whether for a busy night or meal prepping for the week, this dish delivers big flavor with little effort. Try it once, and it’ll earn a permanent place in your dinner rotation.