One Pot Mexican Rice and Sausages

This One Pot Mexican Rice and Sausages dish combines smoky sausage, vibrant bell peppers, and flavorful rice in a simple, all-in-one skillet meal. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal cleanup: Everything cooks in one pan, saving time and dishes.

• Bold flavors: Smoky paprika, chili, cumin, and tender sausage blend into the rice for a deeply satisfying dish.

• Customizable and hearty: Easily swap sausage types, add beans or corn, and adjust spice levels to suit your taste.

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ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Main Dish Ingredients:

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

• 1 lb beef or chicken sausage, sliced

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 green bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 1½ cups chicken broth

• 1 cup canned diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 2 tsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 Tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup frozen or canned corn (optional)

• Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish

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directions

1. Brown the Sausage
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add sausage slices and brown both sides (~5–6 minutes). Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté Aromatics
   In the same pan, add onion and garlic. Sauté 2–3 minutes until fragrant.

3. Cook the Bell Peppers
   Add the bell pepper slices and cook another 3 minutes until slightly softened.

4. Toast the Rice
   Stir in rice and cook 2 minutes, coating each grain with the flavorful oil in the pan.

5. Add Broth & Spices
   Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes with juice, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

6. Simmer with Sausage
   Return browned sausage to the pot, bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low. Cook for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

7. Finish with Corn
   Stir in corn if using during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

8. Fluff and Garnish
   Remove from heat, fluff the rice gently with a fork, and garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve hot.

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Servings and timing

• Servings: 5

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cooking time: 25 minutes

• Total time: 40 minutes

• Approximate calories per serving: 485 kcal

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Variations

• Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or increase chili powder.

• Protein swap: Use chorizo, smoked sausage, or turkey sausage for different flavors.

• Veggie boost: Stir in black beans, diced zucchini, or chopped corn.

• Grain alternative: Substitute brown rice (cook ~40 minutes) or quinoa (15–18 minutes) but adjust liquid accordingly.

• Cheesy take: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack over the top and cover until melted.

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storage/reheating

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat Options:

• Microwave individual servings until hot (1–2 minutes).

• Rewarm on the stovetop on medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

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FAQs

Can I skip the sausage?

Yes—omit the sausage or replace with beans, tofu, or chopped chicken for a vegetarian or lighter option.

Is long-grain rice necessary?

You can use jasmine or basmati rice, but avoid short-grain types which can become too sticky.

How do I avoid mushy rice?

Use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio, simmer gently without lifting the lid, and fluff gently after cooking.

Can I use homemade tomato sauce?

Yes—substitute with 1 cup crushed tomatoes or homemade marinara instead of diced tomatoes.

Should I rinse the rice?

Rinsing is optional. It removes surface starch and prevents stickiness, but isn’t required.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté sausage and veggies, then add rice, broth, tomatoes, and seasonings. Cook on high pressure for 8 minutes and quick-release.

How spicy is this dish?

Mild by default. Add cayenne or hot sauce to increase the heat.

Why add rice last?

To ensure each grain is coated in flavor and to toast slightly for improved texture.

Can this be meal-prepped?

Absolutely—portion into containers with toppings separate; heat and garnish before eating.

What sides go well?

Serve with tortilla chips, guacamole, sour cream, or a simple green salad.

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Conclusion

One Pot Mexican Rice and Sausages is a flavorful, fuss-free meal that combines bold spices, hearty sausage, and vibrant vegetables in a single skillet. Quick to prepare and full of satisfying, layered flavors—it’s the ideal weeknight dinner or meal-prep staple that delivers hearty comfort with every bite. Enjoy!

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