Black Beans, Sausage, and Rice Skillet (Printable version)

Hearty one-pan meal with smoky sausage, black beans, and fluffy rice in a savory tomato base.

# What You'll Need:

→ Meats

01 - 10 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
04 - 2 garlic cloves, minced
05 - 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped

→ Grains & Legumes

06 - 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
07 - 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed

→ Liquids

08 - 1 2/3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
09 - 1 can diced tomatoes with juices

→ Spices & Seasonings

10 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
11 - 1/2 tsp ground cumin
12 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
13 - 1/2 tsp salt
14 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Garnishes

15 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro
16 - Lime wedges

# Directions:

01 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
02 - In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and jalapeño; cook for 1 minute more.
03 - Stir in the rice, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring, for 1 minute to toast the rice and spices.
04 - Add the black beans, diced tomatoes with juices, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
05 - Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and cook for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
06 - Return the browned sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook uncovered for 2–3 minutes to heat through and allow excess liquid to evaporate.
07 - Remove from the heat. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The smoky sausage and spices create a depth of flavor that tastes like it simmered all day
  • Everything cooks in one skillet so cleanup is practically nonexistent
  • It is even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers
02 -
  • Resist the urge to lift the lid while the rice simmers or you will lose the steam needed for perfectly cooked grains
  • The rice will continue to absorb liquid as it rests, so remove it from heat while it still looks slightly saucy
  • Rinsing the rice until the water runs clear prevents gummy, clumpy results
03 -
  • Prep all your ingredients before you start cooking since the process moves quickly once the heat is on
  • Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes off the heat before serving to help the flavors meld
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