Sausage And Salsa Skillet Dinner

Prep: 10 min Cook: 20 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

A hearty and flavorful skillet dinner featuring smoky sausage, enriched rice, and vibrant salsa, complemented by tender tomatoes and kidney beans. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it combines bold flavors and satisfying textures, making it a crowd-pleaser for those who enjoy spicy, savory dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 lb. smoked sausage or kielbasa
  • 1 cup enriched rice
  • 1 can (14 1/2 oz.) stewed tomatoes
  • 1 cup water
  • 2/3 cup thick and chunky salsa
  • 1 can (8 oz.) dark red kidney beans, rinsed and drained

Instructions

  1. Cut the sausage in half lengthwise, then slice crosswise into 1/4-inch pieces.
  2. In a 10-inch skillet, combine rice, sausage, stewed tomatoes, water, salsa, and kidney beans.
  3. Mix well, breaking up the tomatoes with a large spoon.
  4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
  5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for about 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For added flavor, consider using spicy sausage or adding chopped bell peppers and onions to the skillet. You can substitute long-grain rice with brown rice, though cooking times will vary. If you're short on time, precooked sausage can be used to reduce cooking time. This dish is versatile and can be customized; try adding corn or black beans for more texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty dish with a side of cornbread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. It also pairs beautifully with the Snickers Bar Dessert for a sweet finish. For a little extra spice, top each serving with additional salsa or diced jalapeños.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sausage And Salsa Skillet Dinner contains roughly 211 calories, with 10g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin C. It also contributes 6g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

211 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.6g 19% DV
Total Fat 4.3g 6% DV
Carbs 33.2g 12% DV
Fiber 6.2g 22% DV
Sugar 1.9g 4% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 349.1mg 15% DV
Potassium 380mg 8% DV
Cholesterol 10.1mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 44.2mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 16.4mg 18% DV
Calcium 45.5mg 3% DV
Iron 3.1mg 17% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-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 a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option. Just ensure it is fully cooked before adding to the skillet. Kielbasa or andouille sausages can also add a nice flavor profile.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the sausage and replace it with a plant-based sausage alternative. You can also add more beans or vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. You could also serve it alongside Mexican-style rice or cornbread to soak up the delicious juices. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole can also enhance the flavors.

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).

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