Lunch

Sausage and Vegetable Fried Rice

Name: Sausage and Vegetable Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked and cooled white rice; 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, or bell peppers); 2 large eggs, lightly beaten; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, sliced

ByMariem August 9, 2025

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Sausage and Vegetable Fried Rice is a colorful, flavorful dish that combines savory sausage, tender vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner and is perfect for using up leftover rice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fried rice is hearty enough to serve as a main course yet simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner. The combination of sausage and fresh vegetables brings a depth of flavor and texture that’s both comforting and vibrant. Plus, it’s a flexible recipe that welcomes many variations.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Cooked rice (preferably day-old)
Smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
Bell peppers, diced
Carrots, diced
Green peas
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Soy sauce
Sesame oil
Olive oil or vegetable oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add oil.
Sauté the sausage until browned on both sides; remove and set aside.
Add onions, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers to the skillet, cooking until slightly softened.
Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula.
Return sausage to the pan, add peas, and pour in soy sauce and sesame oil.
Stir-fry until everything is heated through and evenly coated in seasoning.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use chicken sausage or vegetarian sausage for a lighter option.
Add scrambled eggs for extra protein.
Toss in chopped spinach or kale for added greens.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil or microwave in short intervals until hot. Fried rice can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

It’s better to use day-old rice for the best texture, but freshly cooked rice can work if cooled and dried slightly before frying.

What kind of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even spicy chorizo are great options.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

How do I prevent soggy fried rice?

Cook on high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Can I add different vegetables?

Absolutely — broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms work well.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can add chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches for the best stir-fry texture.

Do I need a wok?

No, a large skillet works just fine.

Can I add pineapple?

Yes, pineapple adds a sweet, tropical twist to the savory flavors.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

You can prep all ingredients ahead, then stir-fry just before serving for the best results.

Conclusion

Sausage and Vegetable Fried Rice is a quick, customizable, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy days. With its mix of savory sausage, colorful vegetables, and flavorful rice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Mariem