Save Pin 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 sausage and peppers rice plate for a cozy family dinner, and it quickly became a weeknight staple for its ease and crowd-pleasing taste.
Ingredients
- Italian sausages: 4 mild or spicy sausages (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 (optional)
- Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the 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 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 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 and fluff:
- Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
- Finish and serve:
- Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Save Pin Whenever I make this, the whole family gathers around quickly, excited by the savory aroma and vibrant colors of the peppers in the skillet.
Required Tools
Large skillet with lid, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains meat (pork or turkey), possible gluten (check sausage ingredients), dairy (if using Parmesan cheese). Always check sausage and broth labels for gluten or other allergens.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 480, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 20 g
Save Pin This Italian sausage & peppers rice plate is sure to satisfy—enjoy every hearty bite with friends and family!
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I cook the Italian sausages for this dish?
Brown the sausages in a hot skillet with olive oil until evenly cooked and golden on all sides before slicing and adding to the dish.
- → Can I use a different type of rice?
Long-grain white rice works best for texture, but you can substitute with brown rice; just increase the cooking time accordingly.
- → What vegetables complement this dish?
Sweet bell peppers and onions add a fresh sweetness and slight crunch, balancing the savory sausage perfectly.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, by selecting gluten-free sausage and using gluten-free broth, this dish can be enjoyed without gluten concerns.
- → How can I add a bit of heat to the flavors?
Include crushed red pepper flakes during cooking, or choose a spicy Italian sausage for a bolder kick.
- → What are good garnishes for extra flavor?
Fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese enhance the dish with bright and savory notes.