Imagine perfectly browned sausage pieces meeting tender rice, brought together with just the right spices.
That’s Wolfgang Puck’s sausage to a T!
A key tip is to let your rice soak in the flavors by using a pressure cooker, which enhances the taste beautifully.
This recipe is one of my favorites for its simplicity and rich flavors – perfect for a cozy meal!
How to Make Wolfgang Puck Sausage and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Sausage (Italian or your favorite variety)
- 2 cups Long-grain White Rice
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 Onion (diced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 Bell Pepper (diced)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Oregano (dried)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until they become translucent.
Step 2:
Add the sausage to the skillet.
Cook until it browns, breaking it up with a spatula or spoon as it cooks.
Step 3:
Once the sausage is cooked, add the bell pepper and remaining olive oil.
Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to soften the peppers.
Step 4:
Add the rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat all grains with the oil and sausage mixture.
Pour in the chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
Step 5:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Choosing the Sausage:
Use your favorite sausage type, like spicy or mild Italian, and adjust based on your taste preference.
Different sausage flavors can offer unique tastes for this recipe.
Rice Cooking:
Don’t be tempted to lift the lid while simmering, as keeping it covered helps the rice cook evenly and fully absorb the flavors.
Patience makes all the difference here!
Adding More Vegetables:
Feel free to incorporate additional veggies like corn, zucchini or mushrooms to bring extra nutrition and color to the dish.
It’s a great way to sneak in more veggies for the family!
Spice Adjustments:
If you love a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Spices can personalize the dish to your liking!
Storage and Reheat:
This dish stores well in the fridge for a few days, and it makes excellent leftovers.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to revive its original texture.
What to Serve with Wolfgang Puck Sausage and Rice Recipe
Sautéed Peppers and Onions
You can’t go wrong with sautéed peppers and onions as a tried-and-true side for sausage and rice.
The vivid colors and slight sweetness are a tasty match, adding a fresh contrast to the dish.
Just slice bell peppers and onions and cook until they’re soft and slightly caramelized.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are a fantastic side that brings comfort to the table.
The soft, buttery potatoes pair well with the savory sausage and rice for a mouthwatering combination.
You might add a bit of cheese or herbs for an extra touch of flavor.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
I suggest adding roasted Brussels sprouts for something a little different but equally wonderful.
Toss them in olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and roast until crispy for a delicious, nutritious side.
The hint of bitterness and the crunchy texture add depth to your meal.
Asian-Style Slaw
Consider a refreshing Asian-style slaw for a twist on traditional sides.
Made with cabbage, carrots, a splash of soy sauce, and rice vinegar, this slaw is a crisp companion to the sausages.
It introduces a tangy and lively flavor profile that’s perfect for variety.
Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Adding baked macaroni and cheese gives a comfort food vibe to the meal.
The creamy, cheesy goodness complements the spicy and savory elements of the sausage and rice wonderfully.
Make sure to use good-quality cheese for the best result.
Variations and Substitutions
Sausage Choices
You can use Andouille sausage for a smoky kick, or opt for a milder Italian sausage if you don’t like too much spice.
Feel free to explore with chorizo for a distinct and rich flavor that pairs well with rice dishes.
If you want a healthier option, lean turkey sausage could be a great choice for this recipe.
Rice Options
While long-grain rice works well, you can try jasmine rice for a slight aromatic twist.
Basmati rice could provide a fluffier texture that complements the sausage and spices uniquely in this dish.
If you prefer a more nutritious option, brown rice works equally well, though you may need to adjust cooking time.
Spice It Up
Adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes can brighten up the dish if you prefer extra heat.
For a different flavor profile, you might want to incorporate smoked paprika for a richer taste.
Try jazzing it up with a sprinkle of fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to add freshness just before serving.
Vegetables Add-In
Include bell peppers for a splash of color and sweetness that balances the spice perfectly.
You can add chopped broccoli or zucchini for added nutrition, making the dish heartier.
Mushrooms can provide an earthy flavor, expanded by the sausage and seasonings in wonderful ways.
How to Store Leftover Wolfgang Puck Sausage and Rice
Storing your Wolfgang Puck sausage and rice properly is key to retaining its flavor and texture.
You’ll want to use airtight containers to keep moisture and odors at bay.
In the Refrigerator
If you plan to eat your leftovers within a few days, refrigeration is a great option.
Keep the dish in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.
In the Freezer
For longer storage, freezing is your best bet.
Portion out individual servings into separate containers for easy thawing.
This dish will keep in the freezer for up to three months.
Labeling
It’s always smart to label your containers with the date and contents.
This way, you’ll always know what’s inside without having to open them.
This also helps you track how long it’s been stored.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Underestimating Cooking Time
When cooking rice with sausage, don’t rush the process.
Brown rice typically requires more time than white rice, so adjust your timing accordingly.
You don’t want to end up with undercooked or mushy rice.
Ignoring the Sausage Casing
Sausage casings play a crucial role in the texture and moisture of your dish.
Be sure not to pierce them while cooking to keep all the flavor inside.
High heat might split the casings, so cook them gently for the best results.
Using Wrong Liquid Ratios
It’s important to start with the right proportions of liquid to rice.
Add too much broth and you’ll end up with a soggy dish.
Too little, and your rice might burn or stick to the pan.
Wolfgang Puck Sausage and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb Sausage Italian or your favorite variety
- 2 cups Long-grain White Rice
- 3 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 Onion diced
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 Bell Pepper diced
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 tsp Oregano dried
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until they become translucent.
- Add the sausage to the skillet.
- Cook until it browns, breaking it up with a spatula or spoon as it cooks.
- Once the sausage is cooked, add the bell pepper and remaining olive oil.
- Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes to soften the peppers.
- Add the rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat all grains with the oil and sausage mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth, salt, black pepper, and oregano.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.