Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe

Name: Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 14 oz package smoked sausage, cut into small pieces; 1 onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 10.8 oz package frozen broccoli florets; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1 tbsp smoked paprika; 1 tbsp onion powder; 1 tbsp minced garlic; Dried parsley, for garnish; 2 1/4 cups chicken broth; 1 cup white long grain rice, rinsed; 8 oz shredded Colby Jack cheese

Cheesy smoked sausage and rice skillet dish served in a skillet

By :

Enzo

November 20, 2025

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Get yours

Jump to Recipe

Why make this recipe

Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet is a fantastic weeknight meal that delivers both flavor and comfort. This dish combines the heartiness of smoked sausage, the nutrition of vegetables, and creamy melted cheese with rice for a filling experience. Not only is it easy to make, but it also comes together in one skillet, which simplifies cleanup. Plus, it’s a great way to add some veggies to your diet without compromising on taste. You can get dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, and everyone will be asking for seconds!

How to make Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet

Making Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet is a straightforward process that involves cooking the sausage and vegetables, adding rice and broth, and finishing with gooey melted cheese. It’s simple enough for beginner cooks, yet delicious enough to impress family and friends.

Ingredients :

14 oz package smoked sausage, cut into small pieces
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
10.8 oz package frozen broccoli florets
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp minced garlic
Dried parsley, for garnish
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
1 cup white long grain rice, rinsed
8 oz shredded Colby Jack cheese

Directions :

Prepare the Ingredients
Cut the smoked sausage into small bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and green bell pepper finely to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
Cook the Sausage and Vegetables
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the smoked sausage, chopped onion, and chopped green bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the sausage is nicely browned and the onions and peppers have softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add Aromatics
Once the sausage is browned and vegetables are softened, stir in 1 tablespoon of minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Combine Rice and Broth
Add the rinsed white rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the sausage and vegetables. Pour in 2 1/4 cups of chicken broth, then season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Cook the Rice
Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the rice cook for about 20 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, add the frozen broccoli florets on top, allowing them to steam and cook along with the rice.
Add Cheese
When the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed, stir in about 1 cup of shredded Colby Jack cheese. Layer additional cheese on top and cover the skillet again to allow the cheese to melt. Alternatively, place the skillet under the oven broiler for a few minutes to melt the cheese and achieve a lightly browned topping.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle dried parsley over the melted cheese for a fresh herb finish. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful skillet meal.

Nutriments benefits

Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet offers numerous nutritional benefits. Here are some of the key health aspects of this dish:

Protein: The smoked sausage provides a significant dose of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
Vitamins and Minerals: The green bell pepper and broccoli add vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidant properties.
Carbohydrates: Rice serves as a great source of energy. It fuels your body for daily activities and replenishes glycogen stores.
Calcium: The Colby Jack cheese adds calcium to the dish, supporting bone health.
Fiber: Including vegetables helps increase the fiber content, which is good for digestion.

What to Serve With Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet

This dish stands well on its own, but you can enhance the meal experience even further. Consider serving it with:

A simple green salad: A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette can add crispness and balance to the richness of the skillet.
Crusty bread: Offer some warm bread on the side to soak up any extra cheesy goodness.
Pickles or relish: These tangy sides can complement the savory flavors of the sausage.

Why You’ll Love This

Quick Cooking Time: This dish takes about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights!
One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes means easier cleanup.
Customizable: You can easily add your favorite vegetables or swap the sausage for chicken or turkey if desired.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy the cheesy, hearty flavors.

How to Store Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet

Storing leftovers of your Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet is simple:

Refrigerate: Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze: For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet meal. Divide it into portions and place in freezer-safe containers. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Reheat: To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Tips and Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t Skip Rinsing the Rice: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, ensuring the final dish doesn’t become overly sticky.
Watch the Garlic: Garlic can burn quickly. Stir it in last and don’t cook it for too long.
Check Rice: Towards the end of the cooking time, keep an eye on the rice to make sure it doesn’t overcook and turn mushy.
Broccoli Timing: Add the broccoli halfway through to ensure it stays bright and crisp rather than overcooked and mushy.

Variation

Here are some fun ways to customize your Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet:

Change the Meat: Swap smoked sausage for grilled chicken, turkey sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
Different Vegetables: Use fresh spinach, carrots, or peas instead of broccoli based on your preferences or seasonal availability.
Use Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack for a spicy kick, or even Cheddar for a distinct flavor.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time and more chicken broth. Check the package directions for the correct ratio of liquid and cooking time.

What type of smoked sausage should I use?

You can use any type of smoked sausage you prefer, such as kielbasa or andouille. Just make sure it’s precooked for the best results.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep ingredients ahead of time. Chop the vegetables and sausage in the morning or a day before. You may assemble everything and cook it shortly before serving.

This recipe is not only quick and easy to prepare but also promises to delight with its bold, cheesy flavors. It’s wisely packed with nutrients and serves as a convenient meal for families. So go ahead, try your hand at this Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet, and be prepared for hearty compliments from your loved ones!