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Flavorful Jailhouse Rice

Flavorful Jailhouse Rice: A Savory One-Pot Delight

A budget-friendly, flavorful one-pot meal featuring rice, sausage, and vegetables, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 10 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

Main Dish
  • 14 ounces Smoked Sausage Add savory flavor and protein; substitute with turkey sausage or omit for a vegetarian version.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Used for sautéing ingredients; can substitute with vegetable oil.
  • 1 Onion Provides a sweet base flavor; yellow or white onions work best.
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper Adds crunch and sweetness; can swap with zucchini or other bell pepper colors.
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper Complements green pepper’s flavor; can replace with additional green peppers.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Enhances flavor; use garlic powder if fresh garlic isn't available.
  • 14.5 ounces Diced Tomatoes (undrained) Contributes moisture and acidity; fresh tomatoes or tomato puree can be used instead.
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce Brings richness; substitute with crushed tomatoes for a thicker consistency.
  • 1 can Kidney Beans Adds fiber and protein; can use black beans or chickpeas.
  • 1 can Pinto Beans Offers a creamy element; can replace with more kidney beans.
  • 1.5 cups Long-Grain White Rice The heart of this dish; brown rice is healthier (adjust cooking time).
  • 4 cups Chicken Broth Enriches flavor; swap for vegetable broth for vegetarian version.
  • 1 tablespoon Chili Powder Infuses spice and depth; adjust according to heat preference.
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika Introduces smoky flavor; regular paprika will work if preferred.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Boosts spice level; adjust to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Adds Italian essence; fresh can replace dried (use more).
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; freshly ground offers better flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Brings out the dish’s flavor; use according to taste.
  • Optional Hot Sauce Add heat if desired; serve on the side.
  • Optional Chopped Green Onions Garnish for freshness and color.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned. Remove sausage and set aside, leaving drippings.
  2. In the same pot, add diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper. Cook over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are soft.
  3. Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in a 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes and a 15-ounce can of tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  5. Add drained kidney beans and pinto beans, stirring thoroughly for another 2-3 minutes.
  6. Pour in 1.5 cups of long-grain white rice, stirring to distribute evenly.
  7. Add 4 cups of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle boil.
  8. Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon each of chili powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano, along with cayenne pepper and black pepper to taste.
  9. Return the browned sausage to the pot, folding it into the rice and vegetable mixture.
  10. Allow the mixture to come to a boil, then reduce heat and cover, simmer for 20-25 minutes.
  11. Check for doneness and let simmer for an additional 5 minutes if necessary.
  12. Turn off heat and let sit covered for 5-10 minutes.
  13. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, optionally garnish with chopped green onions and serve with hot sauce.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 22gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 8gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 60mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth or water.

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