Cheesy Sausage and Rice Skillet

Some weeknights just call for pure comfort and barely any dishes. This cheesy sausage and rice skillet nails both. It is hearty melty and loaded with smoky sausage and crisp broccoli all in just one pan. This is the kind of meal I relied on back in college and now my family devours it whenever crazy schedules hit.

I came up with this when I needed something quick before a night shift and now it is a staple for busy weeks. The leftovers never last long around here.

Ingredients

• Smoked sausage: sliced into rounds or half moons gives a deep savory flavor and is easy to brown for extra taste. Look for one with a natural casing for better texture.
• Butter: adds richness and helps brown the sausage and rice. Use real butter for the best result.
• Steamed broccoli: provides pops of green and nutrition. Go for fresh broccoli crowns if possible and steam until just tender for color and crunch.
• Rice-A-Roni boxed rice: makes this recipe even faster and ensures top flavor with included seasonings. You can substitute with another seasoned rice if needed but adjust liquid and timing.
• Sharp cheddar cheese: shredded fresh is best for melting. The sharp variety keeps the dish from being too mild. Look for a block and shred it yourself if you can since pre-shredded can be less melty.

Instructions

Melt the Butter:

Start by heating a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt fully so it begins to bubble.

Brown the Sausage:

Add the sliced sausage to the melted butter. Cook for three to four minutes stirring occasionally so the sausage gets golden brown. Remove some of the extra fat if necessary but leave enough for flavor.

Toast the Rice:

Take the rice from the RiceARoni boxes and add it directly to the pan. Stir it into the sausage. Cook for about one to two minutes to toast the rice until it starts to turn a little golden. This step brings out a nutty flavor.

Add Water and Seasonings:

Pour in five cups water and add the seasoning packets from the boxes. Stir thoroughly to dissolve the seasonings. This is crucial for even flavor. Lower the heat so it is at a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet tightly.

Simmer and Steam the Broccoli:

Let the rice mixture cook for about twenty minutes covered until the rice is tender and most liquid is absorbed. While it simmers steam the broccoli in the microwave or on the stovetop until just tender and bright green. Cut it into bite sized pieces for easy eating.

Combine Broccoli and Cheese:

Once the rice is cooked stir in the chopped steamed broccoli. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and gently fold it in until everything is hot and the cheese is melted and gooey. Serve immediately for best texture.

I always reach for extra sharp cheddar here because I adore the tang. My family still talks about the time my daughter helped me stir in the cheese for the first time and we both could not resist sneaking a bite before it hit the table.

Storage Tips

Leftovers will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about three days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave in short bursts to keep the cheese creamy. You can add a splash of water or broth when reheating if it seems too thick.

Ingredient Substitutions

This skillet is flexible. Try swapping the smoked sausage for turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter spin. You can use a different cheese such as Monterey Jack for a milder option. Frozen broccoli works just as well in a pinch just drain well before adding.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this as a main meal with a simple salad on the side for extra crunch and freshness. It is also delicious with a drizzle of hot sauce if you like a kick or with a fried egg for breakfast leftovers.

Making It Your Own

You can stir in other veggies such as bell peppers or peas if your family likes variety. For a hint of freshness try finishing with chopped parsley or green onions. Sometimes I add a pinch of smoked paprika to double down on the savoriness.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze make the recipe up to the point before adding cheese. Let cool then freeze in freezer safe containers. When ready to eat thaw and then reheat covered on the stovetop adding the cheese only once it is hot and bubbling. This keeps the cheese silky instead of grainy.

Every time I bring this to a potluck the skillet is scraped clean. A friend of mine told me this is now her go to weeknight meal for her two picky kids and she has even managed to sneak in extra greens. The balance of smoky sausage and creamy cheese truly wins everyone over.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute other cooked sausages like kielbasa or chicken sausage for a similar flavor.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, use spicy sausage, or stir in hot sauce for extra heat.

→ Can fresh broccoli substitute frozen?

Fresh broccoli works well—just steam or microwave it until tender before adding to the skillet.

→ What cheese varieties can I use?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but Monterey Jack, gouda, or mozzarella can provide a different flavor profile.

→ Is it possible to make ahead?

Absolutely. Assemble ahead and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed.