Sausage and Rice – One Pot Recipe

Create a quick and hearty one-pot sausage and rice casserole with this simple recipe. Packed with flavorful sausage, tender bell peppers, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked rice, this dish is a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is easy to customize and combines wholesome ingredients for a comforting meal that everyone will love. Serve it as a main course or pair it with a fresh side salad for a balanced dinner.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 11 oz. sausage (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup yellow onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 1 ¼ cups white long-grain rice, uncooked
• 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small green bell pepper, sliced
• 10.75 oz. cream of chicken soup
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¾ cup milk
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Sausage
   Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Slice the sausage into ½-inch thick rounds and cook according to package instructions. Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic
   Melt the butter in the same pot. Add the diced onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Deglaze the Pot and Cook Rice
   Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and chicken broth to the pot. Use a silicone spatula to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom to enhance the flavor. Bring the broth to a boil and add the rice. Cover tightly with a lid and bring back to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes.
4. Add Bell Peppers
   Without stirring, add the red and green bell peppers to the pot. Cover again and continue cooking for 5-10 minutes, or according to your rice package instructions.
5. Let It Rest
   Turn off the heat and let the pot sit, covered, for 10 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and any stuck grains to loosen from the bottom.
6. Combine Ingredients
   Return the pot to low heat. Stir in the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined.
7. Add Sausage and Seasoning
   Return the sausage to the pot and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, if using. Stir and cook until everything is heated through. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Cleanup: Everything cooks in one pot, saving time and effort.
• Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with sausage, rice, and creamy cheese, this is a comforting meal for the whole family.
• Customizable: Easily swap ingredients to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

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Tips

• Don’t Stir the Rice: Avoid stirring after adding the peppers to prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
• Use High-Quality Sausage: The flavor of the sausage greatly impacts the dish. Choose a variety you enjoy.
• Check Your Rice Package: Follow the recommended liquid-to-rice ratio and cooking time for best results.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Replace sausage with diced chicken, turkey sausage, or plant-based sausage.
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Cream Soup Alternatives: Use cream of mushroom or celery soup for a different flavor profile.

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FAQs

• Can I make this dish ahead of time?
  Yes! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Can I freeze this recipe?
  Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy ingredients, which may separate when thawed.
• What can I use instead of cream of chicken soup?
  Substitute with a homemade roux-based cream sauce or another condensed soup.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a Side Salad: Add freshness with a crisp green salad.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce.
• Top with Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley or chives for a burst of color and flavor.