Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes over Rice

🌶️ Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes Over Rice

This dish is a one-pan wonder packed with color, flavor, and soul. Smoky sausage, tender bell peppers, sweet onions, and juicy tomatoes come together in a savory medley served over a bed of fluffy white rice. Whether you’re craving a satisfying dinner or planning to make ahead for quick lunches, this recipe delivers every time.

🛒 Ingredients:

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced into ¼-inch rounds (andouille or kielbasa work well)
1 large green bell pepper, sliced
1 medium yellow bell pepper, sliced (optional but adds sweetness and color)
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 medium tomato, diced)
2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter, for richness)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional for heat and depth)
2 cups cooked white rice, for serving

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure your pan is hot before adding the sausage so it sears nicely.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Place the sliced sausage into the skillet in a single layer. Let them sear for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. This step adds tons of flavor.

Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet (with all those delicious sausage bits), add your sliced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and the onions become translucent.

Then, toss in the cherry tomatoes. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes, letting them soften and release their natural juices into the mixture.

Step 4: Season and Combine

Return the browned sausage to the skillet with the vegetables.

Sprinkle in:

1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (if using)

Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors thoroughly.

Step 5: Simmer

Let the mixture simmer together for 2–3 more minutes, allowing the tomatoes to meld with the seasonings and coat everything with a slightly saucy glaze. The aroma at this point will be irresistible.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the sausage and vegetable mixture over a generous serving of hot, cooked white rice. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions if desired.

Serve immediately for best taste and texture.

🍽️ Servings, Prep & Cook Time:

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

✅ Tips & Variations:

Make it Spicy: Add a dash of cayenne or hot sauce for extra heat.
Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or sautéed cabbage.
More Protein: Add cooked shrimp during the last minute of simmering for a surf-and-turf twist.
Rice Alternatives: Use brown rice, quinoa, or couscous for a different base.

🧊 Storage & Reheating:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
This dish freezes well! Just cool completely and freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months.

This hearty sausage skillet is budget-friendly, flavor-packed, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for cozy dinners or hearty work lunches. It’s simple food with bold flavor, and it never disappoints.