Cheesy Sausage and Rice

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Comfort food has always had a special place in my kitchen, but nothing wraps you in coziness quite like a bubbling skillet of Cheesy Sausage and Rice. I still remember the first time I whipped it up after a long, rainy day. I wanted something hearty, something fast, and something that wouldn’t leave me washing dishes all evening. This recipe hit every note. The savory sausage mingling with creamy melted cheese and fluffy rice made it an instant hit with my family.

I’ve played with many versions of sausage and rice dishes, but what sets this one apart is the luxurious cheesiness. It’s that creamy element that ties all the flavors together and makes it more than just another one-pot meal. It becomes an indulgent experience, the kind you look forward to all day. With every spoonful, you get that perfect balance of spice from the sausage and the mellow richness of the cheese. It’s a dish that doesn’t just fill your belly—it feeds your soul.

What I love most is how it adapts to whatever you have on hand. If your fridge is nearly empty, you can still bring this dish to life with just a few pantry staples. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner, a potluck gathering, or just a lazy weekend indulgence, Cheesy Sausage and Rice has become a reliable and delicious go-to that never lets me down.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage and Rice

This dish is the epitome of cozy, comforting simplicity. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare with minimal prep and one pan from start to finish. The rich blend of melty cheese and seasoned sausage turns simple white rice into a complete and satisfying meal. Plus, it’s incredibly flexible—great for using up veggies or cheese odds and ends. Even picky eaters warm up to this one, and you can have it on the table in under 40 minutes. Whether you’re craving something cheesy, need a quick dinner, or want a dish that reheats beautifully, this one delivers every time.

Ingredients

Sausage: I usually go for smoked sausage or kielbasa—its bold, seasoned flavor adds instant depth to the dish.

Rice: Long grain white rice works best. It holds its shape well and soaks up the cheesy and savory flavors perfectly.

Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and brings a creamy, tangy richness to balance the sausage.

Onion: Adds a fragrant, slightly sweet base that builds flavor right from the start.

Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced, elevate the entire dish with a gentle savory punch.

Chicken Broth: Instead of plain water, broth infuses every grain of rice with deep flavor.

Butter: A pat of butter gives a silky texture to the final mixture and enhances that cheesy indulgence.

Salt & Pepper: Just a pinch to season everything and pull all the flavors together.

Optional: Bell peppers or spinach, if you want to sneak in some color and greens.

How to Make Cheesy Sausage and Rice

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Slice the sausage into coins and cook them in a large skillet over medium heat. Let them brown and crisp slightly on the edges—this brings out so much flavor. Once browned, set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add a bit of butter and sauté the chopped onion until translucent. Toss in the garlic and cook for just a minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the uncooked rice right into the skillet. Stir it around so it gets coated in the butter and absorbs some of the flavor. Let it toast lightly for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

Pour in the chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and add the sausage back to the skillet. Stir, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Stir in the Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it melts completely into a creamy, luscious mix.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving so everything sets beautifully. Then spoon it into bowls, garnish if you’d like, and dig in!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

One of the best things about Cheesy Sausage and Rice is how adaptable it is. You can change up the sausage depending on what you have or your taste. Try spicy andouille for a Cajun twist or Italian sausage for an herby version. Ground sausage or even shredded rotisserie chicken also work great.

Swap the rice for brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice if you’re leaning low-carb. Just adjust the cooking time or liquid accordingly. As for cheese, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack can add a different flair, and mozzarella will make it extra gooey. Don’t be afraid to toss in chopped spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes for some added nutrition and flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is plenty hearty on its own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is perfect for cutting through the richness. A side of roasted broccoli or garlic green beans pairs nicely too.

For drinks, a glass of chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or even an amber ale complements the savory and cheesy profile. And if you’re serving guests, a basket of warm crusty bread or garlic knots will have them coming back for seconds.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, splash a little broth or water in the skillet or microwave container to bring back moisture. Stir halfway through to heat evenly.

This recipe also freezes well. Just portion it out, cool completely, and store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Sausage and Rice ahead of time?

Absolutely. It tastes just as delicious reheated. Make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. It even gets more flavorful as it sits.

What kind of sausage works best for Cheesy Sausage and Rice?

Smoked sausage or kielbasa is ideal for that rich, savory taste. But feel free to use what you like—even ground sausage or vegan sausage works well.

Can I use a different type of cheese in Cheesy Sausage and Rice?

Yes! Sharp cheddar is classic, but you can substitute with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend for different textures and flavors.

How do I prevent the rice from turning mushy in Cheesy Sausage and Rice?

Use long-grain rice and don’t over-stir while it cooks. Keep it covered while simmering and check for doneness toward the end.

Is Cheesy Sausage and Rice freezer-friendly?

Definitely. Portion it into containers, cool it fully, then freeze. It reheats beautifully when thawed and given a splash of broth or water.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this Cheesy Sausage and Rice recipe warmed your heart, you’ll probably enjoy this easy, indulgent Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni loaded with creamy pasta and savory sausage. For something lighter but still comforting, this Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken adds a zesty touch to your mealtime rotation. Or dive into our veggie-packed Dirty Rice with Ground Beef for a bold Southern favorite that’s also perfect for batch cooking.

Don’t Forget to Save and Share

If this Cheesy Sausage and Rice recipe made it to your favorites, don’t keep it to yourself! Pin it to your comfort food or easy dinner board on Pinterest so you can find it next time your cravings hit. You can also share it with your foodie friends on Facebook or send it directly to family who’d appreciate a quick, cheesy dinner idea. Every save and share helps spread the deliciousness!

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