Flavorful Jailhouse Rice Recipe

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Hearty, savory, and full of bold flavors, Jailhouse Rice is a classic Southern comfort dish that turns humble ingredients into a mouthwatering meal. With perfectly cooked rice, spicy sausage, and crisp-tender vegetables all mingled in a rich blend of seasonings, this dish makes an unforgettable one-pot wonder. Whether served as a standalone dinner or as a satisfying side, it brings nostalgic charm and plenty of soul to the table.

Jailhouse Rice is beloved not just for its taste, but for its simplicity. It requires minimal prep, cooks up quickly, and leaves behind very little cleanup. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this rice dish delivers warm, robust flavor in every forkful. Plus, it’s endlessly adaptable with different proteins or vegetables based on what you have on hand.

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Ingredients for this Flavorful Jailhouse Rice Recipe

• 1 pound ground sausage (hot or mild, as preferred)
• 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 green bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• 1/2 cup frozen green peas (optional)

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Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the ground sausage until fully browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once done, drain excess fat if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add chopped onion, bell peppers, and celery to the pan with the sausage. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Rice and Seasonings

Stir in the uncooked rice, making sure it’s well mixed with the sausage and vegetables. Add chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cayenne pepper if using. Bring everything to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid while cooking to ensure the rice cooks evenly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

If using, stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Once done, fluff the rice with a fork, taste and adjust seasonings if needed, and serve hot.

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Storage Instructions

Allow any leftovers to cool completely before storing. Transfer the rice to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 390 kcal
• Protein: 16g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 750mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the type of sausage and whether you include cayenne pepper. Use mild sausage and skip the cayenne for a milder version.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust accordingly or par-cook the brown rice beforehand.

Is it okay to substitute chicken for sausage?

Absolutely! Diced cooked chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken are great alternatives.

What vegetables work best in this recipe?

Bell peppers, onions, celery, and peas are classic, but you can also try carrots, corn, or green beans.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How can I reheat leftovers without drying them out?

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of water or broth to keep the rice moist.

Does this freeze well?

Yes, Jailhouse Rice freezes beautifully. Store it in an airtight container and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. Just use a large enough pot and adjust cooking times slightly to ensure everything cooks evenly.

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