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 for my family on a chilly weeknight, and the kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of sizzling sausage and peppers. Everyone kept coming back for seconds—the best compliment a home cook can receive!
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 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, optional garnish
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For garnish, optional
Instructions
- Brown the sausage:
- 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, slicing into 1-inch pieces when cool enough to handle.
- Sauté the aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Sauté the onion and garlic for 2&3 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook the peppers:
- Add the bell peppers and cook for 5&6 minutes until slightly softened.
- Toast the rice:
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1 minute until lightly toasted. Pour in the chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer everything:
- 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 is absorbed.
- Rest, fluff, and serve:
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Save This Italian Sausage & Peppers Rice Plate quickly became a go-to request for family Sunday dinners, always bringing everyone together around the table with smiles and stories.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine for a full meal, or serve with a warm, crusty bread for extra comfort.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Recipe Variations
Make it spicier by using hot Italian sausage and more red pepper flakes, or try a vegetarian version with plant-based sausage and vegetable broth.
Save This hearty dish promises comfort and flavor in every bite—enjoy leftovers for an easy lunch the next day!
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?
Yes, swapping mild sausage for spicy adds a flavorful kick to the dish without altering the cooking process.
- → What’s the best way to cook the sausage evenly?
Brown the sausages over medium heat for 6–8 minutes until all sides are golden, then slice before adding back to the rice mixture.
- → Can I substitute chicken broth with water?
Water can be used for a lighter flavor, though broth enriches the rice with deeper savory notes.
- → How do I ensure the rice cooks perfectly?
Simmer covered for 18–20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed, then let it rest before fluffing with a fork.
- → Are there any recommended garnishes?
Fresh parsley and grated Parmesan add brightness and a creamy finish that complements the savory elements.