Save A hearty and flavorful dish featuring juicy Italian sausage, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and aromatic rice—perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
I first made this Italian Sausage & Peppers Rice Plate for a quick dinner after a busy day, and it instantly became a family favorite thanks to its satisfying textures and savory aroma wafting through the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Italian sausages: 4 (mild or spicy, about 400 g/14 oz)
- Red bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Yellow bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Green bell pepper: 1, sliced
- Onion: 1 medium, sliced
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Long-grain white rice: 1 cup (200 g)
- Chicken broth: 2 cups (480 ml) (or water for a lighter flavor)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Dried oregano: 1 tsp
- Dried basil: 1/2 tsp
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional)
- Salt and black pepper: To taste
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped, for garnish (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For serving (optional)
Instructions
- Brown sausages:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausages and brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes. Remove sausages and set aside; slice into 1-inch pieces when cool enough to handle.
- Sauté onion & garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Add bell peppers:
- Add the bell peppers and cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened.
- Toast rice:
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute to toast lightly. Pour in the chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer:
- Reduce heat to low. Nestle the sliced sausages into the rice and vegetable mixture. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
- Rest & fluff:
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Garnish & serve:
- Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Save My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy this comforting dish together, and even picky eaters are always eager for seconds.
How to Customize
Try using turkey sausage for a lighter version, or opt for plant-based sausage and vegetable broth to make it vegetarian. Adjust the heat by selecting mild or spicy sausage and using more or less red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
This rice plate is delicious on its own, but also pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese. For a full Italian-style meal, serve alongside crusty bread (if gluten is not an issue).
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep the rice moist.
Save This comforting rice plate comes together quickly and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Enjoy each bold bite and make it your own!
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use different types of sausage?
Yes, you can swap Italian sausage with turkey or plant-based sausage for lighter or vegetarian alternatives.
- → How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Use a nonstick skillet or ensure sufficient oil when sautéing. Stir gently during simmering to avoid sticking.
- → Is it necessary to brown the sausage before adding to the rice?
Browning enhances flavor and texture, but you can cook sausage directly if short on time, though it may alter taste.
- → Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, select gluten-free sausages and verify broth ingredients to keep the dish gluten-free.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A simple green salad or crusty bread complements the hearty sausage and pepper blend nicely.