In A Hurry Italian Rice Skillet
A quick and hearty Italian rice skillet packed with sausage, green beans, tomatoes, and cheese, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown sausage in a 10-inch skillet. Drain excess fat.
- Cut up tomatoes, reserving the juice.
- Add water to the tomato juice to make 2 cups of liquid.
- Add chopped onion and green beans to the skillet with sausage.
- Cook, stirring for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Stir in rice, tomatoes, the liquid, and spaghetti sauce mix.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed, about 5 minutes.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker meal, use pre-cooked sausage or substitute with diced rotisserie chicken. Swap out the green beans for any frozen vegetable you have on hand, like peas or corn, to add variety. If you're short on time, instant rice can be used instead of Uncle Ben's, but adjust cooking time accordingly. For added flavor, consider incorporating Italian herbs like basil or oregano.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil for added freshness. Consider trying it alongside 'In A Hurry Pizza' for a fun Italian-themed dinner night. For a heartier option, complement with a glass of red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of In A Hurry Italian Rice Skillet contains roughly 12 calories, with 1g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of Uncle Ben's rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind it will require a longer cooking time and more liquid. Follow the package instructions for brown rice, and adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure it's tender and fully cooked.
What can I substitute for sausage?
You can easily substitute sausage with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just make sure to season it well to mimic the flavors of traditional Italian sausage.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This makes it a great option for meal prep!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).