Mediterranean One-Pot Smoked Sausage Rice
This Mediterranean One-Pot Smoked Sausage Rice is a savory, satisfying dish that combines the rustic warmth of smoked sausage with vibrant Mediterranean ingredients like bell peppers, tomatoes, olives, garlic, and fragrant herbs. It’s a fuss-free meal made in a single pot — perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners. The rice absorbs all the smoky, tangy, and herby flavors, creating a dish that’s comforting, aromatic, and deeply satisfying.
Time Breakdown
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage (e.g., kielbasa or Mediterranean-style), sliced into rounds
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can diced tomatoes, drained)
1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
3 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp ground cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
Add-ins:
½ cup sliced Kalamata olives
¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
¼ cup crumbled feta cheese (for garnish)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat.
Add sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned (about 4–5 minutes). Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add chopped onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until soft.
Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 2: Add Vegetables & Spices
Add diced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes (or canned), sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 3–4 minutes until the veggies begin to soften.
Step 3: Add Rice & Broth
Stir in the rice and toast it for 1–2 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Simmer
Return the sausage to the pot.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Stir in olives and fluff with a fork.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with crumbled feta, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips
Sausage Type: Use a fully cooked, smoked sausage (like kielbasa or a garlicky Mediterranean-style sausage). If using raw sausage, cook it thoroughly before adding other ingredients.
Rice Tips: Long-grain white rice works best; avoid short-grain or sticky rice for this dish. You can substitute with jasmine or basmati rice for more aroma.
Liquid Ratio: Always keep a 2:1 liquid-to-rice ratio. Adjust slightly depending on rice brand.
Flavor Layering: Sautéing the sausage first helps develop flavor in the oil, which enhances the whole dish.
Don’t Stir Too Often: Stirring rice while simmering can make it gummy. Let it cook undisturbed with the lid on.
Add Cheese Last: Add feta only at the end to preserve its crumbly texture.
Variations
Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a chopped chili with the garlic.
Vegetarian: Use a plant-based smoked sausage and vegetable broth.
Grain Substitute: Use quinoa or orzo instead of rice; adjust liquid and cook time.
Herb Upgrade: Mix in fresh basil or dill for extra Mediterranean flair.
Add Greens: Stir in chopped spinach or arugula in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost.
Cheesy Twist: Add shredded mozzarella or halloumi cubes for a cheesier version.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use brown rice?
A: Yes, but increase the broth to 3.5–4 cups and cook time to 40–45 minutes.
Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Absolutely. It stores well for 3–4 days in the fridge and reheats nicely.
Q: How do I reheat it without drying out?
A: Add a splash of broth or water before microwaving or reheating on the stovetop.
Q: Can I freeze this dish?
A: Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat with a bit of broth.
Q: Is this gluten-free?
A: Yes, if you ensure the sausage and broth are certified gluten-free.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approximate)
Calories: 460
Protein: 18g
Fat: 24g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 870mg
Note: Nutrition may vary based on sausage brand and exact ingredients used.
Conclusion
This Mediterranean One-Pot Smoked Sausage Rice is a one-dish wonder that brings smoky, savory sausage together with sun-drenched Mediterranean ingredients and the comfort of rice. It’s easy to make, endlessly customizable, and packs huge flavor with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re meal prepping or feeding a hungry family, this dish hits all the marks — hearty, wholesome, and bursting with delicious complexity.