This Sausage, Lentil, and Rice Skillet is a comforting, one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With hearty Italian sausage, earthy lentils, and fluffy rice all simmered in flavorful chicken broth, it’s a wholesome, filling dish that comes together with minimal cleanup. Finished with melty cheese and a fresh topping of salsa or tomatoes, this recipe is an easy family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more convenience.
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Hearty and Satisfying: Lentils, sausage, and rice make this dish filling and packed with protein and fiber.
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Flavor-Packed: Italian sausage adds bold flavor while the vegetables and broth bring a balanced savory taste.
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Customizable: Easily adapt with your choice of cheese, toppings, or vegetables.
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Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making it perfect for next-day lunches or dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound Italian sausage (loose or removed from casings)
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3/4 cup dry brown lentils
3/4 cup uncooked rice
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
Shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese
Salsa or diced fresh tomatoes
Directions
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In a large skillet or saucepan, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
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Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, until the onions are translucent.
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Stir in the dry lentils, uncooked rice, and chicken broth. Mix well to combine.
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Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the lentils and rice are tender and the liquid is absorbed.
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Remove from heat. Serve warm, topped with shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese.
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Add a spoonful of salsa or some diced fresh tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
Servings and timing
Servings: 5
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Variations
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Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
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Vegetarian Option: Swap sausage with plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
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Add More Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
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Different Grains: Substitute rice with quinoa or farro for a different texture.
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Cheese Alternatives: Use sharp cheddar, gouda, or a dairy-free cheese alternative.
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Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, cumin, and chili powder, then top with avocado and cilantro.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave portions on medium heat for 2–3 minutes or warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying.
This dish also freezes well—store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use green or red lentils instead of brown?
Brown lentils hold their shape best in this recipe. Red lentils cook faster and may become mushy.
Is it okay to use instant rice?
It’s best to use regular uncooked rice. Instant rice may overcook and turn mushy during the simmering time.
Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
Yes, but brown it lightly with the vegetables to add flavor before adding the broth, lentils, and rice.
What kind of salsa works best?
A chunky tomato-based salsa with mild to medium heat complements the dish nicely.
Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely. Prepare and store in the fridge, then reheat when ready to serve.
What’s the best type of cheese for topping?
Mozzarella melts well and adds a mild creaminess, while Monterey Jack provides a slightly sharper flavor.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, let it cool completely and freeze in individual portions or one large container.
Can I add more protein?
Yes, you can stir in extra cooked sausage or even cooked shredded chicken before serving.
What should I serve with this dish?
It’s a complete meal on its own, but a side salad or steamed veggies make great accompaniments.
How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?
Keep the heat low while simmering and stir occasionally. Make sure there’s enough liquid throughout cooking.
Conclusion
The Sausage, Lentil, and Rice Skillet is your answer to a flavorful, fuss-free dinner. It’s filling, comforting, and full of balanced ingredients—perfect for weeknights or meal prep. With just one pan and a handful of pantry staples, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Add your favorite toppings and make it your own for a recipe that’s sure to stay on repeat.
Print
Sausage, Lentil and Rice Skillet
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
Description
This Sausage, Lentil, and Rice Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with Italian sausage, brown lentils, and fluffy rice simmered in flavorful chicken broth, it’s a wholesome dinner that’s both comforting and easy to make. Topped with melty cheese and fresh salsa or tomatoes, this skillet dish is a family favorite that’s perfect for meal prep, busy evenings, or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
1 pound Italian sausage (loose or removed from casings)
1 onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
3/4 cup dry brown lentils
3/4 cup uncooked rice
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
Shredded mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese, for topping
Salsa or diced fresh tomatoes, for serving
Instructions
- Cook sausage:
In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, cook Italian sausage until browned and fully cooked. - Add vegetables:
Stir in chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté 4–5 minutes until onions are translucent. - Add grains and broth:
Stir in lentils, uncooked rice, and chicken broth. Mix to combine. - Simmer:
Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 30–35 minutes until lentils and rice are tender and liquid is absorbed. - Serve:
Remove from heat. Top with shredded cheese and add a spoonful of salsa or fresh diced tomatoes. Serve warm.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Use hot Italian sausage and red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini in the last 10 minutes.
- Grain Swap: Substitute rice with quinoa or farro for a different texture.
- Cheese Alternatives: Try sharp cheddar, gouda, or dairy-free cheese.
- Tex-Mex Style: Add black beans, cumin, chili powder, avocado, and cilantro.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
