Cheesy Smoked Sausage Rice Skillet | Easy One-Pan Dinner

This Cheesy Smoked Sausage Rice Skillet is a quick, hearty, and family-friendly dinner made entirely in one pan. Smoked sausage, fluffy rice, tender broccoli, and melted cheese come together for a comforting meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or budget-friendly cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal with minimal cleanup
• Ready in about 30 minutes
• Filling, cheesy, and comforting
• Easy to customize with different vegetables or cheese
• Made with simple, affordable ingredients

Ingredients

• 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced into bite-size pieces
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 10–11 oz frozen broccoli florets
• 8 oz Colby Jack cheese, shredded
• Dried parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the smoked sausage, onion, and green bell pepper. Cook for 5–6 minutes until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the rinsed rice and chicken broth. Stir and bring the mixture to a full boil.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20 minutes. Halfway through cooking, stir in the frozen broccoli florets.
6. Once the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in half of the shredded cheese until melted.
7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top. Cover or place under a broiler for a few minutes until melted and lightly golden.
8. Garnish with dried parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Best Results

• Rinse the rice to prevent a gummy texture
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control saltiness
• Make sure the skillet reaches a full boil before reducing the heat
• Shred cheese fresh for smoother melting

Variations and Substitutions

• Sausage: Chicken sausage, kielbasa, or andouille
• Cheese: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella
• Vegetables: Corn, peas, or extra broccoli
• Rice: Brown rice (add more broth and extend cooking time)

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a small splash of broth. This dish also freezes well in individual portions.