Sausage and Sweet Corn Rice Skillet

Sausage and Sweet Corn Rice Skillet is a hearty one-pan meal featuring juicy sausage slices, tender rice, and bursts of sweet corn, all cooked together with savory herbs and spices. This easy and satisfying dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This skillet dish is quick to prepare, uses minimal dishes, and delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. The sweetness of corn balances the richness of the sausage, while the rice absorbs all the delicious juices and seasonings. It’s endlessly customizable and perfect for batch cooking, meal prep, or last-minute dinners.

Ingredients

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

• Smoked sausage or Italian sausage, sliced
• Cooked white or brown rice
• Sweet corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Bell pepper, chopped (optional)
• Olive oil or butter
• Paprika
• Dried thyme or oregano
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper (if using) until softened.
4. Add sweet corn, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked rice and return the sausage to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for 5–7 minutes until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 4 people. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking requires 20 minutes, totaling 30 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

• Use chorizo or spicy sausage for extra heat.
• Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a richer flavor.
• Stir in black beans or kidney beans for a protein boost.
• Replace rice with quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for different textures.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen.
Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of sausage is best for this recipe?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or Italian sausage all work well. Choose based on your preferred flavor profile.

Can I use uncooked rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to add broth or water and extend the cooking time. Cook the rice in the same skillet until tender.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or use chickpeas or tofu instead.

Is this dish spicy?

It depends on the sausage used. For a spicier version, add chili flakes or use spicy sausage.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, stir in shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving for a creamy texture.

What if I only have frozen corn?

Frozen corn works perfectly. No need to thaw—just add it straight to the pan.

Can I prepare this ahead?

Yes, it’s ideal for meal prep. Make in advance and reheat as needed.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if your sausage is gluten-free and you use plain rice, this meal is naturally gluten-free.

What sides pair well with this?

Serve with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm bread for a complete meal.

Can I use a rice cooker?

You can cook the rice separately in a rice cooker, then mix it into the skillet as described.

Conclusion

Sausage and Sweet Corn Rice Skillet is a quick, satisfying, and flavorful dish perfect for any night of the week. With its simple ingredients and bold taste, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you make it as a weeknight staple or a comforting lunch, this one-pan wonder won’t disappoint.

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