Quick Sausage And Rice
A quick, flavorful dish combining savory turkey sausage, bell peppers, and onions with seasoned rice, perfect for a hearty weeknight meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the sausage, bell pepper, and onion in butter; remove from skillet.
- Prepare Rice-A-Roni in the same skillet according to the package directions.
- Ten minutes before the rice is done, add the cooked sausage, peppers, and onions to the rice.
- Cook for the remaining time and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider seasoning the sausage with paprika or garlic powder while cooking. You can substitute the turkey sausage with chicken sausage or even vegetarian sausage for a meat-free version. If you're looking to bulk it up, add frozen peas or corn when mixing in the cooked ingredients. This dish can be made even quicker by using pre-cooked sausage.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside crusty bread or even with a slice of Raspberry Mousse Pie for dessert.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Sausage And Rice contains roughly 942 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 99g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1006mg per serving (44% of the Daily Value).
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 Rice-A-Roni?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time, as it typically takes longer to cook than Rice-A-Roni. Follow the package instructions for brown rice, and add the sausage and vegetables in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
What other vegetables can I add to this dish?
You can add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, carrots, or spinach. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces for even cooking. Adding these veggies will enhance the nutrition and flavor, making it a more vibrant dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sausage and vegetables in advance and store them separately. Just cook the Rice-A-Roni fresh when you’re ready to serve, then mix in the pre-cooked ingredients for a quick meal. This is especially handy for busy weeknights.
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).