Introduction
Craving a warm, cozy, and flavorful meal that practically cooks itself? Say hello to Crockpot Sausage and Rice – the dish that’s about to become your go-to comfort food.
It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor in every bite. With just a few ingredients tossed into your slow cooker, you can have a savory, delicious meal that fills your kitchen with the most mouthwatering aromas all day long.
Whether you’re feeding a busy family, meal prepping for the week, or just want something hearty without standing over the stove, this crockpot recipe delivers. And the best part? Your slow cooker does most of the work!
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You Will Love This Recipe
There’s so much to adore about this Crockpot Sausage and Rice recipe. It’s more than just a one-pot wonder – it’s comfort in a bowl.
- Super easy – Toss it all in and walk away. No fuss, no mess.
- Big on flavor – Sausage, spices, and broth make magic together.
- Kid-friendly – Even picky eaters will go back for seconds.
- Budget-friendly – Uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients.
- Customizable – Swap in different veggies or sausages to fit your taste.
- Meal-prep approved – Stores and reheats beautifully.
Once you try this recipe, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation!
Ingredients To Make Crockpot Sausage and Rice
Before we dive into the step-by-step process, let’s take a look at everything you’ll need. These ingredients are easy to find and even easier to prepare.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Crockpot Sausage and Rice:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced into rounds
- 1 ½ cups uncooked long grain white rice (do not use instant rice)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for heat lovers)
These ingredients come together to make a dish that’s hearty, savory, and bursting with bold flavor. If you like it spicy, feel free to use spicy sausage and a few extra shakes of hot sauce!
How To Make Crockpot Sausage and Rice
Step-by-step Instructions:
Step 1: Prep the Sausage and Veggies
- Slice your smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds.
- Dice the onion and bell pepper.
- Mince the garlic.
Optional but recommended: Sauté the sausage in a skillet with olive oil for 3-4 minutes until it’s slightly browned. This adds depth and flavor!
Step 2: Add Everything to the Crockpot
- In your crockpot, add the sausage, onion, bell pepper, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, and seasonings.
- Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
Note: If you’re adding frozen peas or corn, wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking to stir them in.
Step 3: Let It Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2½–3 hours.
- Check after 2½ hours if cooking on high. Cooking times may vary based on your crockpot.
Make sure the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 4: Stir, Taste, and Serve
- Give everything a good stir. Add more broth if you want a saucier consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
And just like that, dinner is served!
Pro Tips For Making Crockpot Sausage and Rice
Cooking this dish is super easy, but these little tips can make it even better:
- Brown the sausage first – Adds a rich, smoky flavor.
- Use the right rice – Long grain white rice works best. Avoid quick-cooking rice as it turns mushy.
- Don’t lift the lid too much – Let the slow cooker do its job.
- Add greens at the end – Stir in baby spinach or peas during the last 30 minutes.
- Make it cheesy – Stir in shredded cheddar for a creamy, melty twist.
- Spice it up – Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or use spicy sausage for extra heat.
These small changes make a big difference in flavor and texture!
What To Serve With Crockpot Sausage and Rice
While this dish is satisfying on its own, here are a few yummy sides to make it a full meal:
- Garlic bread – Perfect for scooping up every bite.
- Side salad – A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness.
- Cornbread – Adds a touch of sweetness and Southern charm.
- Pickles or slaw – For a little tang and crunch on the side.
Even a simple slice of buttered toast works beautifully with this dish!
Nutritional Information
Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown per serving of Crockpot Sausage and Rice (based on 6 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 480-520 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 900mg |
Note: Nutrition values can vary depending on the type of sausage and broth used.
Essential Kitchen Tools For This Recipe
- Slow Cooker / Crockpot – The star of the show. A 6-quart size works great.
- Cutting board and knife – For prepping sausage and veggies.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredients.
- Optional skillet – If you choose to brown the sausage first.
These tools make your cooking smooth and stress-free!
Other Recipes You’ll Love
- Creamy Mushroom Chicken Pasta
- Creamy Chicken Pasta Recipes
- Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Soup
- Paula Deen Chicken Casserole With Ritz Crackers
- Paula Deen Meatloaf With Ritz Crackers
- Meatball Pasta Recipe Creamy
- Dump and Bake Meatball Casserole with Bow Tie Pasta
- Shrimp Pineapple Fried Rice
- Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice
- Blackstone Chicken Fried Rice
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may require extra broth. You might also need to cook it on low for 6–7 hours.
2. Can I freeze Crockpot Sausage and Rice?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then freeze in airtight containers. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of broth.
3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free unless you choose to add cheese.
4. What sausage is best for this recipe?
Smoked sausage like kielbasa or andouille works perfectly. Go for spicy if you like a kick.
5. Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, just make sure your crockpot can hold it all. Cooking time may increase slightly.
Recipe Cards
Crockpot Sausage And Rice Recipe
Equipment
- Slow Cooker / Crockpot – The star of the show. A 6-quart size works great
- Cutting board and knife – For prepping sausage and veggies
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredients
- Optional skillet – If you choose to brown the sausage first
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb smoked sausage (kielbasa or andouille), sliced into rounds
- 1 ½ cups uncooked long grain white rice (do not use instant rice)
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced (any color)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel)
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1 tsp hot sauce (optional, for heat lovers)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Sausage and Veggies
- Slice your smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds.
- Dice the onion and bell pepper.
- Mince the garlic.
- Optional but recommended: Sauté the sausage in a skillet with olive oil for 3-4 minutes until it’s slightly browned. This adds depth and flavor!
Step 2: Add Everything to the Crockpot
- In your crockpot, add the sausage, onion, bell pepper, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, rice, and seasonings.
- Stir gently to combine everything evenly.
- Note: If you’re adding frozen peas or corn, wait until the last 30 minutes of cooking to stir them in.
Step 3: Let It Cook
- Cover and cook on low for 5–6 hours or on high for 2½–3 hours.
- Check after 2½ hours if cooking on high. Cooking times may vary based on your crockpot.
- Make sure the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
Step 4: Stir, Taste, and Serve
- Give everything a good stir. Add more broth if you want a saucier consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.
- And just like that, dinner is served!
Notes
- Brown the sausage first – Adds a rich, smoky flavor.
- Use the right rice – Long grain white rice works best. Avoid quick-cooking rice as it turns mushy.
- Don’t lift the lid too much – Let the slow cooker do its job.
- Add greens at the end – Stir in baby spinach or peas during the last 30 minutes.
- Make it cheesy – Stir in shredded cheddar for a creamy, melty twist.
- Spice it up – Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or use spicy sausage for extra heat.
