Name: Meatballs plus Rice (One Pot!)
Yield: 4

One-pot Meatballs and Rice is packed with tender mini meatballs, fluffy rice, and veggies. A guaranteed hit for all ages!

Overhead image of the meatballs and rice

author’s note

A Weeknight Dinner Win!

My kids would happily eat rice for every meal if I let them. Plain, buttered, any kind. So I’m always looking for ways to turn their rice obsession into something a little more balanced.

That’s how this one-pot Meatballs and Rice came to be. I started with their favorite base, then worked in tender meatballs and some sneaky veggies. Now it’s one of those dinners that checks all the boxes. It’s straightforward, filling, and full of flavor. And let’s be honest, it’s not just the kids who love it!

Process shots-- images of the sausage being prepped and cooked

Quickest Meatballs Ever!

Meatballs usually take time. Mixing, shaping, and browning can feel like a chore. But not with this recipe!

Here, meatballs are just one ingredient. No rolling or shaping required. Simply slice Italian sausage into coins, and you’re done! They may not be evenly round, but they add incredible flavor and texture with zero extra effort.

Quick Tip

Want to use real meatballs? Go for it! Just keep them small. If using frozen mini meatballs, let them thaw slightly first—no one wants a cold center!

Process shots of one-pan Meatballs and Rice-- images of the veggies, garlic, rice, carrots, and seasonings being sautéed

Meatball and Rice Recipe Ingredients

A few ingredients worth mentioning:

Ingredient	Tips & Swaps
Italian sausage	Use mild or spicy, based on what you like. I use mild for my kids. Buy sausage links with casings, then remove the casings before slicing.
Basmati rice	Long-grain white rice also works, but basmati is a reliable here.
Chicken stock	A good, rich stock adds lots of flavor without extra spices. Swanson’s is a great option.

Process shots of one-pot Meatballs and Rice-- images of the dish coking and then corn and peas being added

Shortcuts

How To Make Meatballs And Rice Faster

Garlic: Frozen Dorot garlic cubes are a lifesaver—just pop them in straight from the freezer. Refrigerated minced garlic works too.
Italian sausage: Packed with seasoning, salt, and flavor, so no extra ingredients needed.
Frozen veggies: A quick and straightforward way to cut down on prep time!

Process shots-- images of the dish being fluffed and finished to be served

What Goes With Meatballs And Rice?

This one-pot meal has it all: rice, veggies, and protein! But if you want extra flavor, here are two favorite toppings:

Parmesan: Finely grated off the block, it adds a salty, melty finish. Use a microplane for the best texture.
Pesto: A spoonful of fresh basil pesto (like Rana’s) brings a creamy, herb-y boost.
For sides, a green salad pairs evenly. Try: Caesar, Garden, Olive Garden, or Kale Avocado Salad.

Storage

Store leftover Meatballs and Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of chicken stock to keep the rice from drying out.