Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring smoky sausage, tender rice, and melted cheddar cheese, perfect for an easy and comforting dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 14 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes, to develop flavor and render some fat.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion and chopped bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Combine rice and spices: Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, paprika, black pepper, and salt if using. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Add cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy texture.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top if desired, and serve the dish warm.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage or kielbasa as a lighter alternative to smoked sausage.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- For extra creaminess, stir in 1/4 cup of sour cream or cream cheese before adding the cheddar cheese.
