Crockpot Spanish Rice with Sausage

This hearty Crockpot Spanish Rice with Sausage is a flavorful, one-pot meal packed with smoky sausage, vibrant spices, and tender rice. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and fills your home with irresistible aromas. Just toss ingredients in the slow cooker and enjoy a delicious, comforting dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crockpot Spanish Rice with Sausage is a game-changer for anyone craving a wholesome, satisfying meal without the fuss. The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, blending bold flavors like smoky sausage, tangy tomatoes, and aromatic spices into a cohesive dish. It’s perfect for families, meal preppers, or anyone who loves a stress-free cooking experience. The recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite vegetables or spice levels. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers restaurant-quality taste with minimal effort, making it ideal for cozy dinners or gatherings.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Rinse the Rice: Rinse long-grain rice under cold water to remove excess starch, preventing a gummy texture.
• Brown the Sausage: For deeper flavor, brown the sausage before adding it to the crockpot.
• Spice it Up: Adjust cayenne or chili powder to control heat; start small and taste as you go.
• Check Liquid Levels: Ensure enough broth to fully cook the rice; add more if it looks dry.
• Stir Sparingly: Avoid over-stirring to keep rice fluffy and prevent it from breaking apart.
• Use Fresh Spices: Fresh paprika and cumin enhance flavor; check your spices for potency.
• Layer Ingredients: Place rice at the bottom for even cooking, then layer vegetables and sausage.
• Taste Before Serving: Adjust salt and pepper after cooking to balance flavors.
• Garnish for Appeal: Fresh cilantro or green onions add color and freshness to the final dish.
• Clean the Crockpot: Soak the crockpot immediately after serving to make cleanup easier.

Yield: 8 Servings

Crockpot Spanish Rice with Sausage

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Crockpot Spanish Rice with Sausage is a flavorful, easy one-pot meal with smoky sausage, rice, and vibrant spices.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 8 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 8 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

• ½ tsp chili powder
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
• 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients, rinse the rice thoroughly, and slice the sausage into bite-sized pieces. This ensures a smooth cooking process.
2. Sauté for Flavor: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes. This step enhances the smoky flavor.
3. Add Aromatics: Toss in chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened, stirring occasionally.
4. Layer the Crockpot: Place rinsed rice at the bottom of the crockpot. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices for even cooking.
5. Add Vegetables: Scatter diced bell peppers, corn, and peas over the rice. These add color, texture, and a touch of sweetness to the dish.
6. Season the Mix: Sprinkle smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper over the ingredients. Stir gently to distribute spices evenly.
7. Add Sausage Mixture: Transfer the browned sausage, onion, and garlic to the crockpot, spreading them evenly over the rice and vegetables.
8. Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6-8 hours, until rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
9. Check and Adjust: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
10. Serve and Garnish: Scoop into bowls, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot. Pair with a side salad or warm tortillas for a complete meal!

Notes

• If the rice is too dry, add 1/4 cup more broth during cooking and stir gently.
• For a creamier texture, stir in 1/2 cup shredded cheese before serving.
• Ensure sausage is fully cooked before adding to the crockpot to avoid undercooking.
• Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Nutrition Information

Yield

8

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 316Total Fat 19gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 35mgSodium 761mgCarbohydrates 26gFiber 2gSugar 4gProtein 12g

The recipes and nutritional information on Crock Pot Meal are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes

• Sausage: Smoked sausage or chorizo adds a rich, smoky depth; kielbasa works for a milder flavor.
• Long-Grain Rice: Opt for white long-grain rice for the best texture; avoid short-grain varieties that turn mushy.
• Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes with green chilies (like Rotel) add a zesty kick; plain tomatoes work for less spice.
• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth lets you control saltiness; vegetable broth is a good substitute.
• Bell Peppers: Red or green bell peppers provide sweetness and crunch; use colorful varieties for visual appeal.
• Onion and Garlic: Freshly chopped onion and minced garlic build a savory base; don’t skip these aromatics.
• Spices: Paprika, cumin, and chili powder create the signature Spanish flavor; smoked paprika elevates the dish.
• Corn and Peas: Frozen or canned corn and peas add sweetness and texture; drain canned vegetables well.
• Olive Oil: A small amount enhances flavor when sautéing; substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro as a garnish brightens the dish; parsley is an alternative for cilantro haters.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Replace sausage with ground beef, chicken, or shrimp for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit sausage and use vegetable broth with added beans like black or pinto for protein.
• Rice Alternatives: Try brown rice or quinoa, but adjust cooking time and liquid ratios accordingly.
• Spice Adjustments: Swap chili powder for chipotle powder for smokier heat or omit for a milder dish.
• Vegetable Variations: Add zucchini, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture.
• Low-Carb Option: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice, reducing cook time to 2-3 hours.
• Tomato Variations: Use fresh diced tomatoes or fire-roasted tomatoes for a bolder flavor.
• Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack before serving for a cheesy twist.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free; double-check sausage and broth labels.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop with a bit of water or broth to restore moisture, stirring occasionally.
• Meal Prep: Divide into meal prep containers for easy lunches; pair with a side salad for balance.

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