When comfort food calls, nothing hits the spot quite like a big skillet of Cheesy Sausage & Rice. This dish is the definition of cozy: warm, melty cheese enveloping flavorful sausage, all mixed into tender rice. It comes together with pantry staples and a handful of fresh ingredients, making it a go-to for weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying.

What really makes this dish shine is the balance of flavor and texture. The rice absorbs the savory juices from the sausage, the vegetables add depth, and the cheese pulls everything together in creamy, gooey perfection. It’s a full meal in one pan and will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Sausage & Rice

This recipe is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re feeding kids, adults, or a hungry mix of both, it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. It’s rich without being too heavy and hits that perfect spot between indulgent and simple. Plus, it’s easily customizable – you can sneak in extra veggies, switch up the cheese, or even use a spicy sausage for more kick.

What Kind of Sausage Works Best?

You can really make this dish your own with the sausage you choose. A smoked sausage like kielbasa adds a deep, savory flavor, while spicy Italian sausage gives it a zesty kick. Chicken or turkey sausage are great for a leaner option without losing any taste. Just make sure your sausage is fully cooked before adding it to the skillet for the best results.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Sausage & Rice

This recipe keeps it simple while delivering maximum flavor. You likely have most of these items on hand already. Here’s what you’ll need:

Smoked sausage: This is the heart of the dish, offering that rich, meaty bite and bold flavor.

White rice: Long-grain rice works perfectly here. It absorbs all the flavors and gives a nice, fluffy base.

Onion: A must for building the savory base. Yellow or white onions both work well.

Garlic: Fresh garlic gives depth and aroma that balances the richness of the cheese and sausage.

Bell peppers: Use a mix of red and green for color and a mild, sweet crunch.

Chicken broth: Helps cook the rice and infuses it with flavor.

Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds the signature cheesiness.

Heavy cream: Just a bit to bring everything together into a creamy, luscious finish.

Olive oil: For sautéing your vegetables and sausage.

Salt & pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout.

How To Make the Cheesy Sausage & Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until it’s browned. Toss in the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with all the flavorful juices. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.

Step 3: Make It Cheesy

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until everything is melted and creamy. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Let the dish sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly before serving. Scoop into bowls and get ready to savor each bite.

How to Serve and Store This Skillet Favorite

This recipe feeds about 4 to 6 people generously, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep. Serve it straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like, or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

To store, let the dish cool completely and transfer leftovers to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or water to bring back the creaminess.

What to Serve With Cheesy Sausage & Rice?

Garlic Bread

A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is always a winner next to a cheesy skillet dish.

Simple Green Salad

Something light and crisp like a cucumber or romaine salad adds refreshing contrast.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli with crispy edges and a squeeze of lemon brightens the plate.

Creamy Corn Dip

Bring in a creamy, slightly sweet dip that balances the savory sausage flavors.

Cajun Potato Soup

If you’re leaning into comfort, a warm cup of this soup rounds out the meal beautifully. Try our Cajun Potato Soup for a cozy pairing.

Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

If you’re feeding a crowd or doing a buffet-style dinner, this dish complements with another cheesy twist. Don’t miss our Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini.

Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad

Cool, tangy and creamy, our Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad makes a great cold side.

Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If you love this cheesy skillet dinner, here are a few more favorites to explore:

One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta when you’re craving more bold, smoky flavor.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a comforting classic.
Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta when you want something tropical and creamy.
Unstuffed Pepper Skillet for another rice-and-meat skillet favorite.
Flavorful Jailhouse Rice if you want something easy and full of southern flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

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Let me know in the comments if you made this with spicy sausage or added your own twist. Did you go heavy on the cheese or sneak in extra veggies?

Your feedback makes our community even more delicious. I’m always happy to help troubleshoot or share ideas.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Sausage & Rice is one of those dinners that brings everyone running to the kitchen. It’s unfussy, flavorful, and packed with everything you need in a single skillet. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep it in your regular meal rotation for those nights when delicious simplicity is the only thing that matters.