Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, easy-to-make skillet recipe that combines hearty sausage, tender zucchini, and gooey melted cheese in one incredible dish! This Cheesy Sausage Zucchini Rice Skillet is not just a meal, it's a flavor explosion that will have your family begging for seconds. Imagine a complete dinner prepared in just 30 minutes, with minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction – sounds too good to be true? Keep reading to discover how this simple yet spectacular recipe can become your new go-to comfort food.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage, sliced
- 2 zucchinis, diced
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by slicing sausage into bite-sized pieces, dicing zucchinis into small cubes, and measuring out rice, chicken broth, and shredded cheese.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add sliced sausage. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sausage begins to brown and release its oils.
- Add diced zucchini to the skillet and sauté with sausage for 2-3 minutes until zucchini starts to soften slightly.
- Stir in uncooked rice, chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix ingredients thoroughly to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove skillet from heat and sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow cheese to melt completely.
- Fluff rice with a fork, ensuring cheese is well distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired.
Tips
- Choose the right sausage: Use a flavorful sausage like Italian or spicy chorizo to add depth to the dish.
- Don't overcook the zucchini: Keep it slightly crisp for better texture and nutrition.
- Use long-grain rice for best results to prevent mushiness.
- For extra richness, use a blend of cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella.
- Let the dish rest after adding cheese to ensure even melting and optimal flavor distribution.
- If the rice seems too dry, add a splash more chicken broth during cooking.
- For a lighter version, use turkey sausage and low-fat cheese.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
