Cheesy Sausage and Rice Skillet is the ultimate one-pan comfort food dish—rich, satisfying, and simple enough for a weeknight meal. Packed with bold smoked sausage, creamy sharp cheddar, and hearty rice, this skillet blends flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving something cheesy and comforting, this dish delivers. It transforms basic ingredients into a hearty, flavorful meal in about 30 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you want something filling but don’t want to fuss in the kitchen. Ready to dig in? Let’s go.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe Name
- It’s utterly cheesy: the sharp cheddar melts into the rice creating luscious, gooey goodness.
- One pan simplicity: everything cooks in a single skillet so cleanup is a breeze.
- Loaded with savory smoked sausage for a satisfying, meaty bite.
- Includes veggie power: broccoli adds color, texture, and nutrients.
- Feeds a crowd, stretches easily, and makes great leftovers.
- Comforting, hearty, and perfect for any occasion—casual dinners, potlucks, or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 16 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds or half‑moons
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups steamed broccoli, chopped
- 2 boxes (6.5 oz each) Rice‑A‑Roni
- 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Step‑by‑Step: How to Make Recipe Name
- Heat a large non‑stick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter.
- Once butter is melted, add the sliced smoked sausage. Brown it for about 3‑4 minutes, allowing the edges to crisp lightly.
- Remove or push the sausage to the side, set aside the seasoning packets from the Rice‑A‑Roni boxes. Add the dry rice to the skillet and brown for 1‑2 minutes, stirring, to toast it slightly.
- Stir in 5 cups of water. Then add the seasoning packets you set aside. Stir to combine everything.
- Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- While the rice and sausage are cooking, steam the broccoli until crisp‑tender, and chop into bite‑sized pieces.
- Once the rice mixture is cooked, stir in the steamed broccoli.
- Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until melted and fully combined.
- Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Helpful Tips
- Use a non‑stick or heavy‑bottomed skillet to prevent sticking and burning.
- Don’t skip browning the sausage and toasting the rice—these steps add flavor and texture.
- If the rice starts to dry out before it’s fully cooked, add a splash more water and recover.
- For extra cheese pull, mix in half the cheese, cover for a minute, then stir in the rest.
- Adjust salt carefully—both the seasoning packets and the cheese contribute saltiness. Taste before adding more.
Substitutions And Variations
- Meat substitute: Swap smoked sausage for sliced kielbasa, chorizo, or even a plant‑based sausage for a vegetarian twist.
- Cheese options: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, gouda, or even mozzarella for a milder, stringier melt.
- Rice swap: Use brown rice or cauliflower rice instead—but cooking times will vary (brown rice takes longer).
- Veggie additions: Add bell peppers, frozen peas, or corn for extra color and flavor.
- Spicy kick: Add a dash of crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeño, or use a spicy sausage.
Storage Instructions
- Let the skillet cool to room temperature, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- To reheat: use a microwave or warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or milk to help loosen the rice.
- This dish also freezes well—freeze in portions, thaw in fridge, then reheat using the same method.
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming 6 servings total):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~500‑600 kcal |
| Protein | ~25‑30 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~50‑60 g |
| Fat | ~25‑30 g |
| Saturated Fat | ~12‑15 g |
| Fiber | ~4‑5 g |
| Sodium | High (seasonings & sausage) |
Values vary depending on the brand of sausage, cheese, and rice used.
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for color and freshness.
- Serve alongside a crisp green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.
- For extra creaminess, drizzle a little sour cream or add a dollop on top.
- A side of steamed carrots, roasted asparagus, or roasted Brussels sprouts also complements this dish nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions About Recipe Name
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! It reheats well. You can cook the full skillet, cool completely, and store in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of water or broth so the rice doesn’t dry out. For freezer storage, portion into meal‑prep containers, freeze, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: Can I reduce the fat or calories?
Absolutely. Use a lower‑fat cheese or reduce the amount of cheese. Swap the smoked sausage for a leaner protein (chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or a plant‑based sausage). Also, use light butter or a cooking spray. You could even lighten the dish by substituting part of the rice with cauliflower rice.
Q: What if my rice isn’t cooking evenly?
Make sure your skillet is covered properly and heat is kept at a gentle simmer—not too low (rice will stall) and not too high (liquid evaporates too fast). If parts of the rice are still hard after the timer, add a little more liquid (water or broth), cover, and continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes. Replace the smoked sausage with a vegetarian sausage alternative, or simply use mushrooms or extra broccoli (or beans) for protein. Use a vegetable‑based flavor packet or broth and adjust salt and seasoning accordingly.
Q: Is this recipe freezer friendly?
It is. Once cooled, portion into airtight containers and freeze. When ready, thaw overnight, then reheat gently with added liquid if needed.
Q: How can I boost the flavor?
Try adding garlic (minced) when browning the sausage, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or a bit of smoked paprika. Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary also lift the flavor. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds brightness.
Conclusion
Thank you so much for joining me in making this Cheesy Sausage and Rice Skillet—it’s one of my all‑time go‑to meals when I want something comforting but easy. I truly love how the creamy cheese melds with the sausage and broccoli, and how the rice soaks up all those tasty flavors. It’s warm, filling, and somehow simple and special all at once. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do, whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself. May your kitchen be full of good food and even better company—enjoy every cheesy bite!
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Cheesy Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Cheesy Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect one-pan comfort meal packed with smoked sausage, melty cheddar, and broccoli. Quick, hearty, and full of flavor—perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
16 oz smoked sausage, sliced
2 tablespoons butter
2 cups steamed broccoli, chopped
2 boxes (6.5 oz each) Rice-A-Roni
8 oz sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Heat a large non‑stick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter.
- Once butter is melted, add the sliced smoked sausage. Brown it for about 3‑4 minutes, allowing the edges to crisp lightly.
- Remove or push the sausage to the side, set aside the seasoning packets from the Rice‑A‑Roni boxes. Add the dry rice to the skillet and brown for 1‑2 minutes, stirring, to toast it slightly.
- Stir in 5 cups of water. Then add the seasoning packets you set aside. Stir to combine everything.
- Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.
- While the rice and sausage are cooking, steam the broccoli until crisp‑tender, and chop into bite‑sized pieces.
- Once the rice mixture is cooked, stir in the steamed broccoli.
- Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until melted and fully combined.
- Serve hot straight from the skillet.
Notes
Use a non-stick skillet for best results.
Add extra veggies or spice for variation.
Reheat with a splash of water to refresh leftovers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1.5 cups)
- Calories: ~550 kcal
- Sugar: ~3 g
- Carbohydrates: ~55 g
- Protein: ~28 g