Italian sausage is a staple ingredient in many Italian dishes, and when paired with flavorful rice and fresh herbs, it’s a match made in heaven. Whether you’re looking for a hearty one-pot meal or a quick weeknight dinner, these 18 delicious recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic Italian sausage and rice skillet dishes to creative twists like stuffed bell peppers and risotto, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Italian sausage and explore the many ways it can be paired with rice and herbs to create mouthwatering meals. Whether you’re a fan of spicy sausage or creamy risotto, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. So grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Spicy Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet
This hearty skillet dish combines flavorful Italian sausage with creamy rice and a kick of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Cook the Italian sausage for 5 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Italian Sausage Risotto with Peas
A rich and comforting risotto dish packed with flavorful Italian sausage and sweet peas, perfect for a cozy night in. This creamy risotto is easy to make and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the peas and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
One-Pot Italian Sausage and Rice Casserole
A hearty, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add the Italian sausage; cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, frozen peas and carrots, and dried oregano.
6. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Garlic Butter Italian Sausage with Lemon Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this flavorful and aromatic dish, featuring tender Italian sausage smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce, served alongside a bright and citrusy lemon rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook Italian sausages according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic; cook until fragrant, 1-2 minutes.
4. Add white wine and chicken broth; simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve cooked sausage with garlic butter sauce spooned on top.
6. In a separate pot, combine cooked rice, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry over medium heat until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Italian Sausage and Rice Bake
A hearty and flavorful one-dish meal that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This comforting casserole combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with creamy cheese and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in cooked rice, frozen peas and carrots, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Italian Sausage Rice Pilaf
This hearty pilaf combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a warm, one-pot meal. Juicy sausage, fresh basil, and sweet tomatoes are perfectly balanced in this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Italian Sausage Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines juicy Italian sausage with creamy rice and crunchy bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for greasing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. Cook Italian sausage in a skillet, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stuff each bell pepper with the sausage-rice mixture, filling to the top.
7. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Parmesan Italian Sausage and Mushroom Rice
This recipe combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese with a flavorful rice dish, perfect for a comforting meal. This one-pot wonder is easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Italian Sausage Jambalaya Rice
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional jambalaya, this slow cooker recipe combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage with spicy rice and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or jalapeños for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine sausage, onion, garlic, rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Balsamic Glazed Italian Sausage over Wild Rice
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic dish. Sweet and tangy balsamic glaze pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of Italian sausage served atop a bed of nutty wild rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
3. Grill or pan-fry Italian sausages until browned, about 5-7 minutes per side.
4. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic glaze over medium-low heat with olive oil until warm and syrupy.
5. Serve sausages atop cooked wild rice, spooning some of the balsamic glaze on top.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spinach and Italian Sausage Rice Soup
This hearty soup combines flavorful Italian sausage with nutritious spinach and creamy rice, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook Italian sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, onion, and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spinach leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, top with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper Italian Sausage Rice Bowl
A flavorful and vibrant one-pot meal that combines the savory goodness of roasted red peppers with spicy Italian sausage, served over a bed of creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the chopped red peppers to the pot and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the uncooked rice to the pot, stirring to combine with the vegetables and sausage drippings.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Pesto Italian Sausage and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with the freshness of summer tomatoes. Juicy tomatoes are filled with a savory mixture of sausage, rice, and pesto, making for a delicious and easy-to-make main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup pesto
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and hollow out the insides.
3. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add cooked rice, pesto, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each tomato with the sausage and rice mixture, dividing it evenly among the four tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato Italian Sausage Rice Salad
Sun-Dried Tomato Italian Sausage Rice Salad: A flavorful and nutritious salad that combines the best of Italy with the simplicity of a rice bowl. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced Italian sausage (sweet or hot)
– 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and parsley to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Stir in olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Combine cooked rice with the sausage mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion Italian Sausage Fried Rice
Caramelized Onion Italian Sausage Fried Rice: A savory twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines sweet caramelized onions with spicy Italian sausage and fluffy cooked rice.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook rice according to package instructions. Let it cool.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
- Add Italian sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic and stir for 1 minute. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with sausage and onions.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
White Wine Italian Sausage and Arborio Rice
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the richness of white wine with the boldness of Italian sausage, served atop a bed of creamy Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup dry white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in the white wine and chicken broth, bringing to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Olive and Artichoke Italian Sausage Rice Medley
Olive and Artichoke Italian Sausage Rice Medley: A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage with the brininess of olives and artichokes, all wrapped up in a bed of creamy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup marinated artichoke hearts, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, olives, and artichoke hearts. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zesty Italian Sausage Rice with Feta and Olives
A flavorful one-pot dish that combines the savory taste of Italian sausage, creamy feta cheese, and briny olives with a burst of fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Italian sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in cooked rice, chicken broth, olive oil, feta cheese, olives, oregano, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the bold flavors of Italy with these 18 mouthwatering recipes that combine juicy Italian sausage with savory rice and aromatic herbs. From hearty skillets to creamy risottos, and from classic casseroles to innovative stuffed peppers, there’s a dish for every taste and occasion. Discover the perfect blend of spicy, cheesy, garlicky, and herby flavors in dishes like Spicy Italian Sausage and Rice Skillet, Creamy Italian Sausage Risotto with Peas, and many more.
