Description

This flavorful one-pot smoked sausage and rice recipe is a quick and hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Combining smoky kielbasa, tender rice, and colorful vegetables, all cooked together in a single skillet for easy cleanup and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Meat

14 ounces smoked sausage like kielbasa – sliced into rounds

Vegetables

1/2 cup onion diced (about 1/2 medium onion)
1 red bell pepper diced

Cooking Aromatics & Spices

2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon oregano
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Grains & Liquids

2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
1 cup long grain white rice

Additional

3 tablespoons tomato paste
Optional garnishes: fresh parsley or chopped green onions

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the kielbasa into small rounds about ¼ inch thick. Dice the onion and red bell pepper into small pieces between ¼ and ½ inch. In a small bowl, mix the paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper, then set aside.
Cook the Sausage: Heat a large sauté pan or 12-inch skillet with a lid over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on each side, stirring occasionally to ensure even browning.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté until beginning to brown and soften, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the diced bell pepper and cook for another 2 minutes.
Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth, add the rice, tomato paste, and the spice mixture. Stir well to combine everything thoroughly.
Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 20-23 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t dry out; add a splash more broth if necessary.
Finish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from heat. Let it sit for a few minutes, then garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute smoked sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
If you prefer spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
For extra vegetables, consider adding peas or diced zucchini during simmering.
Ensure the rice is fully cooked and tender before serving; if it’s not done, cover and cook a few more minutes.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 330 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 850 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 30 g
Fiber: 2 g
Protein: 14 g
Cholesterol: 55 mg