Get ready to transform your dinner routine with the most mouthwatering, budget-friendly meal that'll have your family begging for seconds! This Penny Plate Sausage and Veggie Bake is not just a recipe—it's a culinary adventure that combines smoky sausage, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice into one irresistible dish. Whether you're a busy parent, a cooking novice, or a seasoned chef looking for a quick and delicious meal, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort food that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 cups bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the sliced smoked sausage until it begins to brown and develop a slight caramelization, approximately 4-5 minutes. This will enhance the meat's flavor and texture.
- Add chopped bell peppers and onions to the skillet with the sausage. Sauté for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become slightly translucent.
- Pour the can of diced tomatoes into the skillet, including all the juice. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix ingredients thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Add the cooked rice to the skillet and gently fold everything together, ensuring the rice is evenly distributed and coated with the sausage and vegetable mixture.
- Transfer the entire mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the edges are slightly crispy and the top is lightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or green onions for added freshness and color.
Tips
- Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for a good-quality smoked sausage to maximize flavor. Andouille or kielbasa work wonderfully in this recipe.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap or add vegetables based on what's in your fridge. Zucchini, mushrooms, or even frozen mixed vegetables can work great.
- Rice Hack: Use day-old rice or leftover rice for the best texture. Cold rice helps prevent the dish from becoming mushy.
- Seasoning Secret: Don't be shy with the Italian seasoning. If you have fresh herbs like basil or oregano, they can elevate the dish even more.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
- Spice It Up: For those who love heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the dish an extra kick.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve with a simple side salad or crusty bread to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 45mg
