Get ready to transform your ordinary weeknight meal into a vibrant culinary celebration! This Fiesta Rice and Sausage recipe is not just another dinner—it's a flavor-packed journey that'll transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Mexico. With a perfect blend of smoky sausage, hearty beans, and zesty spices, this one-pan wonder promises to become your new go-to comfort food that's both easy to make and impossible to resist.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping vegetables: dice the bell pepper, chop the onion, and slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and diced bell peppers until they become soft and slightly translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning and to enhance the rice's nutty flavor.
- Sprinkle chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper over the rice and vegetables. Stir to distribute the spices evenly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rice simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Stir in the drained black beans, corn, and previously cooked sausage. Cover and let heat through for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld and rice to fully absorb remaining moisture.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tips
- Rice Toasting Secret: Always toast your rice before adding liquid. This simple step enhances the nutty flavor and prevents the rice from becoming mushy.
- Sausage Selection: Choose a high-quality smoked sausage for maximum flavor. Andouille or spicy Mexican chorizo can add an extra kick.
- Liquid Ratio Matters: Ensure you use the correct liquid-to-rice ratio for perfectly cooked, fluffy rice every time.
- Spice Customization: Feel free to adjust the chili powder and cumin to match your heat preference. Add a dash of hot sauce for extra excitement.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day leftovers.
- Garnish Game: Fresh cilantro, green onions, or a squeeze of lime can elevate the dish's freshness and presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 55mg
