Sausage Rice Meal (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the skillet

01 - 1 1/4 cups uncooked white rice
02 - 2 teaspoons olive oil
03 - 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
04 - 1 small white onion, sliced into thin wedges
05 - 4 minced garlic cloves
06 - 1/8 teaspoon cayenne for heat
07 - 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
08 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/2 a yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
10 - 1/2 a red bell pepper, thinly sliced
11 - 5 tablespoons tomato paste
12 - 1 1/4 cups chicken broth (low-sodium, split up)
13 - 1 teaspoon paprika
14 - 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for a finishing touch

# Instructions:

01 - Follow package directions to cook your rice. Place it to the side once you're done to use later on.
02 - Heat your olive oil in a skillet on medium-high. Toss in the sausage slices once the oil's ready. Let them brown for around 5 minutes, flipping them midway. Pull them out and set aside once golden.
03 - In that same skillet, toss in the sliced peppers and onion to soak up that sausage flavor. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until tender. Stir in the garlic, salt, and pepper, and cook for another minute. Scoop them out and set them with your sausage.
04 - Lower the heat to medium. Add 3/4 cup of the chicken broth and tomato paste to the skillet. Whisk together until it's nice and smooth, then let it simmer for a minute. Add in your paprika and cayenne to give it a little zing.
05 - Here comes the fun. Throw your cooked rice, sausage, remaining chicken broth, and the softened peppers and onions back into the skillet. Stir it all until it's hot and evenly combined.
06 - Sprinkle the parsley on top, then dish it out while it's still steaming. It tastes best when it's freshly prepared and full of warmth.

# Notes:

01 - Craving more heat? Add extra cayenne or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
02 - Switch up the sausage—try andouille, turkey, or even chorizo.
03 - Cheese fan? Stir in grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar right before serving.
04 - Boost the veggies! Throw in mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.