Instant Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly, this Instant Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner is your new go-to. Picture savory, browned sausage mingling with tender rice and fragrant vegetables, all cooked to perfection in one pot. Whether you’re rushing through a busy weeknight or craving some comforting flavors, this dish delivers hearty, soulful satisfaction with the convenience you love from your Instant Pot.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential for creating layers of flavor and pleasing textures in your Instant Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner. Each element contributes something special—from the spice of the sausage to the delicate aromatics of onion and celery, to the fluffy, perfectly cooked rice.

• 1 pound ground sausage: Choose hot, Italian, or breakfast sausage for your preferred level of spice and flavor.
• 1 ½ cups finely diced onion: Adds a sweet, aromatic base that softens beautifully during cooking.
• 2 large celery ribs, finely diced: Brings freshness and a subtle crunch that balances the richness.
• 2 ¼ cups chicken broth: Provides liquid for cooking and depth of savory flavor; vegetable or beef broth work too.
• 1 ½ cups parboiled/converted rice: Ensures fluffy, separate grains; you can substitute with long-grain, jasmine, basmati, or brown rice following cooking adjustments.
• ½–1 teaspoon seasoning mix of your choice: Such as Cajun seasoning, garlic salt, or Old Bay to personalize the spice profile.
• Optional creaminess additions: 4 oz cream cheese, or 1 cup sour cream, or 1 can (10.75 oz) cream of chicken soup to make it irresistibly rich.

How to Make Instant Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Aromatics

Set your Instant Pot to Sauté (More) and let it heat up. Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces as it begins to brown. Then toss in the diced onions and celery, cooking until the vegetables soften and become fragrant—about 5 minutes. If there’s excess grease after browning the sausage, drain it to keep the dish balanced.

Step 2: Add Broth and Deglaze

Pour in the chicken broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to loosen all those delicious browned bits. These bits pack a punch of flavor that will infuse the rice as it cooks. Once done, turn the Instant Pot off to prepare for the next step.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Sprinkle the parboiled rice evenly over the liquid without stirring it in. Then, gently press it down into the broth to ensure good contact. This method prevents the rice from sticking and gives you perfectly cooked grains.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to Pressure Cook (High). For parboiled rice, cook for 5 minutes. If you’re using other types of rice, adjust cooking times accordingly. When the cooking cycle finishes, allow the pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes before venting the rest manually.

Step 5: Stir and Season

After releasing the pressure, fluff the rice gently and stir all the ingredients together. Taste the dish and add between ½ and 1 teaspoon of your chosen seasoning mix depending on how bold you like the flavors.

Step 6: Make it Creamy (Optional)

For an extra touch of comfort, stir in one of these creamy options until melted and silky: cream cheese, sour cream, or cream of chicken soup. This transforms the dinner into an indulgent, spoonable casserole that everyone will adore.

How to Serve Instant Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner

Garnishes

Enhance your serving with fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions to add a burst of color and brightness. A sprinkle of shredded cheese can bring extra richness, or a dash of hot sauce if you want to ramp up the heat.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables adds balance and freshness. Roasted Brussels sprouts or a simple roasted carrot medley make excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Instant Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner in individual bowls for cozy family-style meals, or turn it into a casserole by baking with a crunchy breadcrumb topping for an inviting golden crust. You can even spoon it into stuffed bell peppers for a fun, colorful presentation that impresses.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Instant Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner keeps wonderfully well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits, making leftovers just as delightful as the first serving.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the rice. Stir occasionally to heat evenly, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or cheese for that fresh-baked feeling.

FAQs

Can I use different types of sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! Hot, Italian, or breakfast sausage all work wonderfully. Feel free to pick your favorite flavor profile to match your mood or pantry staples.

What if I don’t have parboiled rice?

You can substitute with long-grain, jasmine, basmati, or even brown rice, but make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Parboiled rice is recommended for its fluffy texture and ease, but alternatives can be delicious too.

Is the creamy option necessary?

Not at all! The dish is flavorful and satisfying on its own, but adding cream cheese, sour cream, or cream of chicken soup really transforms it into a luscious comfort casserole that’s hard to resist.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, substitute the sausage with a plant-based alternative, use vegetable broth, and skip the creamy additions or use vegan cream options.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking or burning?

Adding the rice on top of the liquid without stirring is key. This ensures the steam cooks the rice evenly and minimizes sticking during pressure cooking.

Final Thoughts

Give this Instant Pot Sausage and Rice Dinner a try and discover how a handful of simple ingredients can come together in an incredibly comforting, flavorful way. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this dish offers warmth, ease, and hearty satisfaction with every bite.

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