Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes Over Rice
Okay, let’s talk about comfort food with a kick! This Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes Over Rice is one of those no-fuss, flavor-packed meals that fills the kitchen with the most mouthwatering aromas and comes together in under an hour. It’s juicy, savory, a little sweet from the peppers, and has just enough spice to keep things interesting.
It’s the kind of dish that makes you do a little happy dance while you’re cooking and trust me, that first bite is worth every sizzle and stir. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the days ahead, this one hits all the right notes.
Why You’ll Love Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes Over Rice
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Use any kind of sausage you love smoked, spicy, chicken, or plant-based. And it works with white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa.
Budget-Friendly: Everything in this dish is simple and affordable, making it perfect for feeding a family without spending a fortune.
Quick and Easy: It all comes together in one pan minimal prep, minimal cleanup, and maximum flavor.
Customizable: Like it spicy? Toss in chili flakes or hot sauce. Prefer it creamy? Add a splash of cream or cheese at the end. This recipe can be whatever you want it to be.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients in Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes Over Rice
This dish brings big flavor with everyday ingredients that shine when cooked together. Here’s what makes it all sing:
Sausage: Juicy, flavorful, and a little smoky this is the heart of the dish. You can go spicy, sweet, or mild depending on your taste.
Onions: Caramelize beautifully and add a rich depth of flavor that balances the tangy tomatoes and sweet peppers.
Bell Peppers: Colorful and sweet, they bring texture and brightness to every bite.
Tomatoes: Crushed or diced, they create a saucy, slightly tangy base that coats everything in deliciousness.
Garlic: Adds a punch of aromatic depth and makes the whole kitchen smell incredible.
Seasonings: Think Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and maybe a dash of paprika or cayenne if you like heat.
Cooked Rice: Fluffy and comforting, rice is the perfect base to soak up all those juices and flavors.
Olive Oil: For sautéing everything to golden perfection.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
Start by heating a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil to get things sizzling.
Combine Ingredients
Add the sliced sausage to the hot pan and cook until browned and caramelized on both sides. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, sauté onions and bell peppers until soft and slightly charred, then stir in garlic and cook for one more minute.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
You’re already using a skillet, so no extra prep needed here just keep it nice and hot and give it a quick stir between steps to keep those flavors building.
Assemble the Dish
Add the sausage back to the pan with the sautéed veggies. Stir in the tomatoes and your seasonings. Let everything simmer together for about 10–15 minutes so all the flavors can mingle and get happy.
Cook to Perfection
As the sauce thickens and the sausage gets even juicier, give it a taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Meanwhile, make sure your rice is hot and ready.
Finishing Touches
Once everything is cooked to perfection, spoon the sausage mixture generously over warm rice. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired parsley or basil are great options.
Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot and enjoy the mix of bold, savory, slightly sweet, and spicy flavors with every bite. It’s hearty, satisfying, and seriously comforting.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: Approx. 375–450 (varies based on sausage and rice used)
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
How to Serve Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes Over Rice
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
– Serve with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness
– Pair with garlic bread or toasted baguette for a comforting combo
– Top with shredded parmesan or mozzarella for a cheesy finish
– A drizzle of hot sauce or a squeeze of lemon takes the flavors up a notch
– For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
– Slice your sausage on the diagonal for a more elegant look and better sear
– Add spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost
– Use canned fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist
– Don’t overcrowd the pan let your veggies sear for max flavor
– Leftovers make a fantastic lunch the next day just reheat and go
– Want it creamier? Stir in a splash of cream or a spoonful of sour cream
– Make it extra hearty by adding beans or lentils
– A little smoked paprika goes a long way for added depth
– If your tomatoes are too acidic, balance with a pinch of sugar
– Use pre-cooked rice to save even more time on busy nights
FAQ’s
1. Can I use any type of sausage?
Yes! Smoked, spicy, sweet Italian, chicken, or even vegan sausages all work beautifully.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely. It reheats wonderfully and makes great leftovers.
3. How spicy is this dish?
That’s up to you! Use spicy sausage or add chili flakes if you like heat or keep it mild.
4. Can I freeze this?
Yes, though the veggies may soften a bit more after thawing. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
5. What rice works best?
White rice, brown rice, jasmine, or basmati all work. You can even use quinoa or cauliflower rice.
6. How do I keep it from being too watery?
Simmer uncovered to reduce excess liquid and let the flavors concentrate.
7. Can I add cheese?
Absolutely! A sprinkle of parmesan or mozzarella is delicious.
8. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, just cook them down a bit longer to create the same saucy texture.
9. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
10. Is it gluten-free?
It can be—just make sure your sausage and seasonings are certified gluten-free.
Conclusion
Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes Over Rice is one of those soul-satisfying meals that’s easy to throw together but feels like you put in way more effort than you did. It’s flavorful, hearty, and totally adaptable to your taste. Whether you’re feeding your family or just treating yourself to something comforting and delicious this one’s a keeper. Go ahead, grab a fork and dig in you’re going to love it!
Print
Sausage, Onion, Bell Peppers & Tomatoes Over Rice
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
This hearty and flavorful dish combines sautéed sausage, sweet bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes over a bed of rice. It’s an easy, colorful, and satisfying one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced into rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add onions and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Return sausage to the pan and add the diced tomatoes with their juices.
- Season with oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer uncovered for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until flavors meld and mixture thickens slightly.
- Serve hot over cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use andouille sausage for a spicier kick.
- Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: sausage and peppers, sausage rice bowl, easy skillet dinner, one-pan meal, sausage stir-fry