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 Italian Sausage & Peppers Rice Plate on a busy Wednesday night after craving something both filling and easy. The simple prep and family-friendly flavors convinced me it would become one of our go-to dinners. Even picky eaters ask for seconds!
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
- Chopped fresh parsley: 2 tbsp (optional, for garnish)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the sausages:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausages and brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes. Remove sausages and set aside. Slice into 1-inch pieces when cool enough.
- Sauté aromatics:
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
- Cook peppers:
- Add bell peppers and cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened.
- Toast rice and season:
- Stir in rice and cook 1 minute to toast lightly. Pour in chicken broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring to boil.
- Simmer together:
- Lower heat. Nestle sliced sausages into rice and vegetable mixture. Cover and simmer 18–20 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Finish and serve:
- Remove from heat, let stand covered 5 minutes. Fluff rice with fork. Garnish with parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot.
Save Italian Sausage & Peppers Rice Plate is a staple at our family table. The first time my son helped slice the colorful bell peppers, everyone enjoyed the vibrant look and hearty bites together around the kitchen island.
Required Tools
Large skillet with lid, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains meat and possible gluten depending on sausage. Parmesan cheese adds dairy. Always check sausage and broth labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 480, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 38 g, Protein: 20 g
Save This dish brings comforting flavors and color to the dinner table. Enjoy leftovers for lunch—they reheat wonderfully!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I use spicy sausage for this dish?
Yes, using spicy Italian sausage adds extra heat, enhancing the dish's flavor profile.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely. Choose gluten-free sausage and verify that your broth contains no gluten ingredients.
- → What type of rice works best here?
Long-grain white rice is preferred for its texture and ability to absorb the flavorful broth evenly.
- → Can I substitute the sausage with a vegetarian option?
Plant-based sausage and vegetable broth can be used to create a vegetarian-friendly version.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently before serving.