Sausage, Onion, and Bell Peppers over Rice: A Flavor-Packed Weeknight Dinner
Looking for a quick, hearty, and flavorful meal that comes together in under 30 minutes? This Sausage, Onion, and Bell Peppers over Rice recipe is your perfect answer. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines smoky sausage, sweet caramelized onions, crisp-tender bell peppers, and fluffy white rice. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or meal-prepping for the week, this satisfying recipe is bound to become a regular in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Only 20 minutes of cooking and minimal prep.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
- Versatile: Customize with your favorite sausage or add extra veggies.
- Great for Meal Prep: Stores well in the fridge and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds (use beef, pork, chicken, or turkey sausage)
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper (optional), sliced for extra color and sweetness
- 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for a little heat and depth)
- 2 cups cooked white rice, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil or melt the butter. Use a heavy-bottomed pan or cast iron skillet for best results—this helps develop a rich sear on the sausage and veggies.
2. Brown the Sausage
Add the sliced sausage in a single layer. Let it cook undisturbed for 4–5 minutes per side until it’s browned and crisp on the edges. Once done, transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet (don’t wash it—those browned bits add flavor), add the sliced onions and bell peppers. Stir occasionally and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and get slightly charred.
4. Season & Combine
Return the sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Sprinkle in garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and Cajun seasoning. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly coated with seasoning.
5. Let the Flavors Blend
Cook everything together for 2–3 more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sausage to heat through again.
6. Serve
Spoon the mixture over warm cooked white rice and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh parsley or red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use Brown Rice or Quinoa for a healthier version.
- Add Mushrooms or Zucchini for extra veggies.
- Spice It Up with hot sauce, crushed red pepper, or spicy sausage.
- Make It Low-Carb by serving over cauliflower rice or skipping the rice entirely.
Storage & Meal Prep
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: The sausage and veggie mix freezes well (rice separately) for up to 1 month.
- Reheat: Microwave or reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to keep it moist.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Try spicy andouille, kielbasa, Italian sausage, or even plant-based sausage.
Can I use frozen peppers and onions?
Yes. Just thaw and pat them dry before sautéing to avoid extra moisture.
What rice is best for this dish?
Any cooked rice works—white, jasmine, basmati, brown, or even wild rice.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage, Onion, and Bell Peppers over Rice recipe is the kind of go-to meal you’ll turn to again and again. It’s fast, comforting, full of flavor, and easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Plus, it makes great leftovers!
Try it tonight and see why it’s a family favorite!