Description
A flavorful and hearty one-pan meal featuring Italian sausage, aromatic vegetables, and tender long-grain rice simmered together with herbs and diced tomatoes. This recipe is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that comes together in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot, casings removed)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grains
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Spices & Herbs
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Italian sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks, until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion and bell pepper. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Toast the rice: Stir the rice into the skillet with the vegetables, coating it well in the oil and vegetables, allowing it to lightly toast for a minute.
- Add liquids and herbs: Pour in the chicken broth and drained diced tomatoes. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Combine and simmer: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and mix everything together thoroughly. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish and serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can use either mild or hot Italian sausage based on your spice preference.
- If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace sausage with plant-based sausage or extra vegetables.
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before simmering.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
- If you want it spicier, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage.
