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One-Pot Cheesy Smoked Sausage and Rice Skillet

A close-up of a creamy sausage and rice skillet dish topped with sliced smoked sausage and fresh parsley.

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Make this hearty, comforting sausage and rice dish quickly in one pan. This recipe uses smoked sausage and cheese for a satisfying weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup milk (any kind)
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned on both sides, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet.
  2. Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the uncooked rice, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and pepper. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute to toast the rice slightly.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  5. After 15 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this resting period.
  6. Remove the lid. Stir in the reserved smoked sausage, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and the mixture is creamy.
  7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, use hot smoked sausage or increase the amount of Cajun seasoning.
  • If you do not have smoked sausage, use ground Italian sausage and brown it before adding the onions.
  • You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth if needed.

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