The Fastest Meal Prep Recipe in my Collection

The Fastest Meal Prep Recipe in my Collection is a easy American recipe that serves 5. 467 calories per serving. Recipe by Josh Cortis on YouTube.

Prep: 8 min | Cook: 17 min | Total: 30 min

Cost: $6.38 total, $1.28 per serving

Ingredients

  • 2.5 cups Cooked Rice (cooked, measured after cooking)
  • 300 g Carrots (2‑3 medium carrots, shredded)
  • 425 g Black Beans (1 (15 oz) can, drained and rinsed)
  • 14 oz Smoked Turkey Sausage (2 links, cut into bite‑size pieces)
  • 454 g Frozen Broccoli (baby florets preferred, placed in microwave‑safe dish)
  • 1 tsp Olive Oil (optional, for very lean sausage)
  • to taste Salt (season vegetables and rice)
  • to taste Black Pepper (season vegetables and rice)
  • to serve Yellow Mustard (optional topping)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and Start Rice

    Place 1 cup dry rice in a fine‑mesh sieve, rinse under cold water until water runs clear, then add to rice cooker or pot with the appropriate amount of water and start cooking.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Shred Carrots

    Using a food processor or box grater, shred 2‑3 medium carrots (≈300 g) into thin match‑stick pieces.

    Time: PT1M

  3. Drain and Rinse Black Beans

    Open the 15 oz can of black beans, pour out the liquid, then rinse the beans under cold water and drain well.

    Time: PT1M

  4. Cut Sausage

    Slice the smoked turkey sausage links into bite‑size pieces on a bias to create more surface area.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Brown Sausage

    Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and add the sausage pieces, arranging them flat‑side down. Cook without oil until a deep golden‑brown crust forms, then flip and brown the other side.

    Time: PT5M

  6. Microwave Broccoli

    Place 1 lb frozen broccoli florets in a microwave‑safe dish, cover loosely, and microwave on high for 2‑3 minutes until thawed and slightly tender.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Finish Cooking Rice

    Allow the rice to finish its cooking cycle (approximately 12 minutes total). When done, fluff with a fork.

    Time: PT12M

    Temperature: 212°F

  8. Assemble Meal‑Prep Bowls

    Divide the cooked rice evenly (about ½ cup per container) into five meal‑prep containers. Top each with equal portions of black beans, shredded carrots, microwaved broccoli, and browned sausage. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of yellow mustard if desired.

    Time: PT3M

  9. Cool and Store

    Let the bowls cool for a few minutes, then seal with lids and refrigerate.

    Time: PT5M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
467
Protein
32 g
Carbohydrates
55 g
Fat
12 g
Fiber
8 g

Dietary info: High protein, Low calorie, Gluten‑free, Dairy‑free, Contains meat

Allergens: Mustard (optional)

Last updated: April 16, 2026

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The Fastest Meal Prep Recipe in my Collection

Recipe by Josh Cortis

A fast, high‑protein meal‑prep bowl featuring smoked turkey sausage, black beans, shredded carrots, broccoli and cooked rice. Ready in about 30 minutes and perfect for five weekday lunches.

EasyAmericanServes 5

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
22m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
43m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$6.38
Total cost
$1.28
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Rinse rice until water runs clear
  • Achieve deep brown crust on sausage without oil
  • Shred carrots finely for even texture
  • Drain and rinse black beans to remove excess sodium
  • Microwave broccoli just until thawed to keep bite

Safety Warnings

  • Handle the hot skillet with a heat‑proof glove to avoid burns.
  • Steam from the microwave‑heated broccoli can cause burns; lift the cover away from your face.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of smoked sausage with rice and beans in American cuisine?

A

The combination of smoked sausage, rice and beans reflects a Tex‑Mex influence that grew out of Southern and Southwestern cooking, where inexpensive proteins like sausage are paired with staple carbs such as rice and beans for a hearty, budget‑friendly meal.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of sausage, rice and beans in Tex‑Mex cuisine?

A

In Texas, smoked pork or turkey kielbasa is common, while in New Mexico you might find chorizo or spicy pork sausage. Some regions serve the dish with corn tortillas or add cheese and salsa for extra flavor.

cultural
Q

How is smoked sausage with rice and beans traditionally served in the Southern United States?

A

It is often served as a one‑pot family dinner or packed in lunch containers for work. The dish is typically accompanied by a simple mustard or hot sauce, and sometimes a side of pickles or coleslaw.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is smoked sausage with rice and beans associated with in American culture?

A

While not a holiday dish, it is popular for weekly meal‑prep, potlucks, and casual gatherings where quick, protein‑rich meals are needed, especially among athletes and busy professionals.

cultural
Q

What authentic ingredients are essential for a traditional American smoked sausage with rice and beans bowl?

A

The core ingredients are smoked turkey or pork sausage, long‑grain white rice, canned black beans, fresh or frozen broccoli, and carrots. Optional seasonings include salt, pepper, and yellow mustard.

cultural
Q

What other American dishes pair well with smoked sausage, rice and beans?

A

It pairs nicely with a crisp green salad, a side of coleslaw, or a simple avocado‑lime salsa. For a fuller meal, serve with cornbread or a warm tortilla.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making smoked sausage with rice and beans?

A

Common errors include overcooking the rice, not rinsing the beans (which leaves a salty syrup), and cooking the sausage without enough heat, resulting in a pale, soggy piece instead of a crisp brown crust.

technical
Q

Why does this recipe brown the sausage in a dry skillet without added oil?

A

Smoked turkey sausage releases enough fat on its own to create a non‑stick surface and develop a deep caramelized crust, which adds flavor without extra calories. Adding oil is only needed if the sausage is exceptionally lean.

technical
Q

Can I make the smoked sausage with rice and beans ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Prepare all components, assemble the bowls, let them cool, then seal and refrigerate. The bowls keep well for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze the bowls and reheat in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the rice.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when browning the sausage?

A

The sausage pieces should develop a deep golden‑brown, slightly crisp exterior on the side touching the pan, while the interior remains juicy. No excessive oil or steam should be present.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Josh Cortis specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Josh Cortis focuses on fast, high‑protein meal‑prep recipes, fitness‑friendly cooking tips, and practical kitchen hacks for busy lifestyles.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Josh Cortis' approach to American meal‑prep cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

Josh Cortis emphasizes ultra‑quick preparation (often under 30 minutes), minimal equipment, and a no‑nonsense attitude toward nutrition, whereas many other channels spend more time on elaborate techniques or gourmet plating.

channel

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