1 Shares

As the sun sets and the hustle of the day winds down, there’s something truly satisfying about walking into a kitchen that feels warm and welcoming. That’s exactly the vibe I captured when creating my One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet. Imagine the comforting scent of sausage sizzling away while cheesy goodness melds with fresh jalapeños, surrounded by perfectly cooked rice—now that’s a weeknight dinner dream come to life!

I never realized just how easy it could be to whip up a flavorful dish that delivers on both comfort and spice. This one-pan wonder not only comes together in a flash but also caters to those who like to customize their meals. Love it mild? Omit the jalapeño! Prefer a vegetarian twist? Swap in your favorite plant-based sausage!

Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this dish has quickly become a table favorite—and I can’t wait for you to experience the magic too!

Why is One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet a Must-Try?

Simplicity is key! You’ll appreciate that this dish requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Flavor-packed and adaptable, it welcomes everyone with its cheesy, spicy goodness while allowing for various adjustments. Quick and easy, it comes together in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights! One pan means hassle-free cleanup, making it a definite crowd-pleaser. Want something different? Explore the versatility of variation ideas to keep your meals exciting!

One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet Ingredients

Get ready to gather your fresh ingredients for this delightful dish!

For the Base

Olive Oil – Used for cooking sausage and vegetables; substitute with any cooking oil you prefer.
Jalapeño Chicken Sausage – Provides protein and a spicy kick; feel free to swap with any sausage variety for different flavor profiles.
Onion – Adds flavor and sweetness; shallots or leeks can be great alternatives.
Garlic – Enhances the overall flavor; garlic powder works well as a substitute.
Jalapeño – Brings heat; seed it for a milder flavor or omit entirely for no spice.
Kosher Salt – Enhances flavor, but adjust the amount to your taste.
Black Pepper – Adds mild heat; you may opt for white pepper for a different flavor.
Paprika – Adds a nice color and slight sweetness; smoked paprika can give a lovely smoky touch.
Dried Oregano – Imparts earthiness to the dish; thyme is a wonderful substitute.

For the Rice & Broth

White Jasmine Rice – The perfect base that absorbs flavors beautifully; brown rice or quinoa can replace it, but adjust liquid and cooking time.
Chicken Bone Broth – Offers depth of flavor; use regular chicken or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.

For the Creamy Finish

Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Adds creaminess to the dish; omit for a dairy-free version or use vegan cheese instead.
Baby Spinach – Adds nutrients and a pop of color; kale or any leafy green makes a great substitute.
Fresh Parsley – A lovely garnish for flavor; omit or swap with cilantro if desired.
Ranch Dressing – Brings a creamy element when served; try vegan dressing for a dairy-free option.

Get ready to create your One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet and enjoy a delicious, hearty meal that brings warmth to your table!

How to Make One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet

Heat Oil: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown, then remove and set aside.
Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and reduce the heat to medium. Sauté the diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped jalapeño for about 5 minutes, until everything is softened and fragrant.
Mix Seasonings and Rice: Stir in your kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and oregano. Then add the rice to the skillet, mixing thoroughly to coat it with those delicious seasonings.
Add Broth and Boil: Pour in the chicken bone broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, stir in the baby spinach and sharp cheddar cheese before layering the browned sausage on top.
Simmer: Cover the skillet tightly, reduce the heat to low, and let it all simmer for 20-25 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed all that flavorful broth.
Let Rest: After simmering, let the dish rest, covered, for an additional 5-10 minutes before serving. Top with fresh parsley and a drizzle of ranch dressing for that finishing touch.

Optional: Add sliced green onions for a fresh garnish.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to regain moisture and flavor.

Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.

Reheating: Gently reheat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Add a bit of chicken broth if necessary to invigorate the dish.

Make-Ahead: Prepare the One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet ahead of time, store covered in the fridge, and enjoy it as a quick dinner option throughout the week!

What to Serve with One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet?

To elevate your dining experience, consider these delightful accompaniments that perfectly complement this comforting dish.

Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes balances the hearty, cheesy flavors and adds a crunch.
Garlic Breadsticks: Soft, buttery breadsticks provide an indulgent side that’s perfect for scooping up the cheesy goodness.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: Colorful veggies sautéed in a light soy sauce add a fresh, crisp contrast, making each bite more vibrant.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn perfectly complements the mouthwatering spices and enhances the earthy flavors of the dish.
Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy slaw offers a cool, crunchy element to balance the dish’s richness; it’s a delightful summertime favorite.
Sparkling Lemonade: This zesty, sparkling drink cuts through the creaminess, refreshing the palate between bites of comforting sausage and rice.

These pairings not only enhance the flavors of your main dish but also create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!

One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet Variations

Feel free to mix things up and cater to your taste buds while creating a delightful experience!

Vegetarian: Swap out sausage for your favorite plant-based option such as lentils or tempeh for a hearty vegetarian dish. Embrace the versatility of veggies!
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free sausage and rice for a dish that caters to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing flavor.
Milder Flavor: Omit the jalapeño entirely or substitute with a sweet pepper to keep it kid-friendly and less fiery. Perfect for those who enjoy less spice!
Extra Veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added color, texture, and nutrition. They’ll blend beautifully with the dish!
Smoky Twist: Replace regular paprika with smoked paprika to impart a deeper, smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh herbs like thyme or basil into the mix for a fragrant and fresh touch that compliments the cheesy goodness.
Cheese Swap: Go for a different cheese, like pepper jack for an extra kick, or creamy goat cheese for a tangy finish. Each will provide its own unique flavor profile!
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes to increase the heat level and awaken your taste buds for a lively dinner.

Embark on a culinary adventure by experimenting with these variations, and make the One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

Whipping up this One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet in advance is a game changer for busy weeknights! You can sauté the sausage, onion, garlic, and jalapeño up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate the mixture in an airtight container. Prepare the rice and broth combination a day in advance as well, keeping the components separate until cooking to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine everything in your skillet as per the original recipe, simmer, and enjoy a comforting meal that’s just as delicious as when freshly made. This simple strategy makes dinner a breeze and lets you savor more quality family time!

Expert Tips for One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet

Cover Tightly: Ensure the skillet is covered tightly during simmering to promote even cooking of the rice and prevent drying out.
Creaminess Check: For a creamier texture, feel free to add more broth as needed, keeping an eye on the consistency of your One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet.
Sausage Quality: Use a high-quality sausage for the best flavor, as it’s a key element of this delicious dish. Opt for fresh, flavorful varieties.
Rice Type Matters: Different types of rice require different cooking times. Stick to white jasmine rice or adjust liquid and time for alternatives like brown rice or quinoa.
Customize Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, remember to seed the jalapeño or recreate the dish by omitting the heat entirely, catering to everyone’s taste preferences.

One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of sausage should I use for the One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet?
Absolutely! I recommend using jalapeño chicken sausage for that perfect kick, but you can swap it out for any sausage variety you love. Sweet Italian, turkey, or even plant-based options work wonderfully. Just ensure they are high-quality for the best flavor profile!

How should I store the One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet?
For fridge storage, place any leftovers in an airtight container, where they will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you prefer to freeze it, use airtight containers and it will keep for up to 2 months. Always remember to allow it to cool before storing for optimum results!

Can I freeze the One Pan Cheddar Jalapeño Sausage & Rice Skillet?
Absolutely! To freeze, divide portions into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring you eliminate as much air as possible. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems a bit dry, don’t hesitate to splash in some chicken broth for moisture.

Are there dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Certainly! If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, this dish can easily be modified to suit various diets. For a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the sausage with your favorite plant-based alternative and use vegan cheese for a dairy-free twist. Also, if you want it to be gluten-free, just opt for gluten-free sausage and ensure the broth is certified gluten-free!

What should I do if the rice isn’t cooking properly?
If you find the rice isn’t cooking to a tender finish, it could mean the liquid is either too low or the heat isn’t maintained. Here’s what to do:

Check the skillet; the lid must be tightly covered to keep the steam in.
If all seems well but the rice is still hard, add a little more broth (1/4 cup at a time) and continue simmering for an additional 5-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, keeping everything even!
Adjust heat levels if necessary to ensure a gentle simmer that cooks the rice evenly.

How can I make this dish milder?
Very simple! If you prefer less heat, simply omit the jalapeño and choose a mild sausage, or consider using a sweet bell pepper instead. Another option is to seed the jalapeño and use less quantity, which can help control the spice while still giving you wonderful flavor!