🍚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hi there! I’m Chef Andrew, and if you’re juggling work, family, and a craving for something hearty and delicious, you’ve come to the right place. This One-Pot Spanish Rice and Sausage recipe is my go-to for busy weeknights. It’s smoky, savory, and packed with flavor—all while being ready in just 30 minutes. No fancy skills required!
Table of Contents
Why it works:
✅ One-pot wonder: Minimal cleanup.
✅ Pantry-friendly: Uses affordable staples.
✅ Endlessly adaptable: Gluten-free? Keto? I’ve got you covered.
📝 Ingredients (Serves 4)
(Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 25 mins)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or rice bran oil for a nutty twist)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (I love chorizo for authenticity, but turkey sausage works too!)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked; substitute with cauliflower rice for low-carb)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra depth)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium if preferred)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas or black olives for a pop of color.
(Psst! For a gluten-free version, ensure your broth and sausage are certified GF.)
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Slice the sausage into 1/2-inch coins and brown for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures a perfect sear!
2. Sauté the Veggies
In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened (about 3 minutes).
3. Toast the Rice
Stir in the rice, paprika, and cumin. Let it toast for 2 minutes—this unlocks the rice’s nutty flavor!
4. Simmer to Perfection
Add diced tomatoes, broth, and browned sausage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
5. Fluff & Serve
Remove from heat, stir in peas (if using), and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges.
🌟 Chef Andrew’s Pro Tips
- Texture Secret: For fluffier rice, rinse it under cold water before cooking to remove excess starch.
- Spice It Up: Add a diced jalapeño or 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper for heat.
- Meal Prep: Double the recipe and freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.
🥗 What to Serve with Spanish Rice and Sausage
Pair this dish with:
- Garlicky Green Beans: Toss fresh beans with olive oil and garlic.
- Simple Avocado Salad: Diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and lime juice.
- Warm Cornbread: My Southern Skillet Cornbread recipe pairs perfectly!
🥘 Dietary Adaptations
Healthier Swaps
- Turkey Sausage: Lowers calories without sacrificing flavor.
- Cauliflower Rice: Reduces carbs (cook for 10-12 minutes instead).
- Vegetarian: Use plant-based sausage and veggie broth.
Gluten-Free
Ensure your broth and sausage are certified GF.
❓ FAQs (You Asked, I Answered!)
What is Spanish rice eaten with?
Spanish rice is incredibly versatile! Pair your One-Pot Spanish Rice and Sausage with:
Garlicky sautéed greens (like spinach or kale) for a fresh contrast.
Warm cornbread or crusty bread to soak up the smoky tomato broth.
Simple salads (try a citrusy avocado salad or cucumber-tomato mix).
Fried plantains for a sweet-and-savory twist.
Pro Tip: Check out my [Easy Skillet Cornbread Recipe] for a perfect Southern-style pairing!
What makes Spanish rice different?
Spanish rice (or arroz rojo) stands out for its bold, smoky flavor and vibrant color. Unlike plain white rice, it’s cooked with:
Tomatoes or tomato broth for a rich, reddish hue.
Aromatics like garlic, onions, and bell peppers.
Smoked paprika or saffron (the secret to its signature depth!).
In this recipe, smoked sausage adds extra savory goodness, making it a complete meal in one pot!
What is a Spanish dish with Vienna sausages?
While Vienna sausages aren’t traditional in Spain, you can adapt this recipe for a fun twist! Swap the smoked sausage for Vienna sausages (slice them into coins) and add green olives for a briny kick. It’s a budget-friendly take that kids love!
What goes well with sausages?
Sausages are a flavor powerhouse! For your Spanish rice and sausage skillet, balance the meal with:
Bright sides: Pickled onions, tangy slaw, or lemon-dressed veggies.
Creamy dips: A dollop of garlic aioli or cool sour cream.
Starchy staples: Crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or buttery grits.
Try my [Quick Pickled Red Onions] to cut through the richness!
What are 3 Spanish dishes?
Spain’s cuisine is a treasure trove of flavor! Beyond Spanish rice and sausage, don’t miss:
Paella: A saffron-infused rice dish with seafood, chicken, or veggies.
Tapas: Small plates like patatas bravas (spicy potatoes) or gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp).
Gazpacho: A chilled tomato soup perfect for summer.
Craving more? Explore my [Authentic Chicken Paella Recipe] next!
📸 Visual Inspiration
🛒 Printable Recipe Card & Shopping List
One-Pot Spanish Rice and Sausage: A 30-Minute Flavor Bomb for Busy Nights
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or rice bran oil for a nutty twist)
- 1 lb smoked sausage (I love chorizo for authenticity, but turkey sausage works too!)
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice (uncooked; substitute with cauliflower rice for low-carb)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (fire-roasted for extra depth)
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium if preferred)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup frozen peas or black olives for a pop of color.
Instructions
Brown the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Slice the sausage into 1/2-inch coins and brown for 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.Chef’s Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan—this ensures a perfect sear!
Sauté the Veggies
- In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until softened (about 3 minutes).
Toast the Rice
- Stir in the rice, paprika, and cumin. Let it toast for 2 minutes—this unlocks the rice’s nutty flavor!
Simmer to Perfection
- Add diced tomatoes, broth, and browned sausage. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
Fluff & Serve
- Remove from heat, stir in peas (if using), and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro or lime wedges.
🍽️ Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Spanish Rice and Sausage is more than just a meal—it’s a stress-free solution for nights when time is tight but flavor is non-negotiable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this dish delivers every time.
Hungry for more? Check out my [Easy Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs (Ready in 30 Minutes!)] or [Smothered Chicken and Rice – Creamy, Comforting & Ready in 30 Min!] next!