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When I find myself craving something vibrant and satisfying, my mind often drifts toward the warm, smoky flavors of Spanish cuisine. Enter Cheater’s Paella—a delightful take on the classic dish that brings the zest of Spain right into my kitchen without the fuss. The secret lies in using cold, cooked rice, which allows each grain to remain beautifully distinct, dancing with crisp textures and rich tastes, much like a stir-fry.

Imagine the sizzle as spicy chorizo mingles with colorful vegetables, all coming together in a single skillet that’s easily accessible. This simplified version not only cuts down on prep time but also invites a world of variations—whether I swap chorizo for pepperoni or toss in seasonal veggies, the result is always a showstopper. Perfect for weeknight dinners, everyone will gather around and savor every last morsel. Let’s dive into this quick, flavorful adventure that’s bound to become a staple in your home!

Why is Cheater’s Paella a must-try recipe?

Simplicity: This dish requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it a breeze for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: With the perfect blend of spices and savory ingredients, it delivers a taste that rivals traditional paella.
Versatile: Easily customize by swapping chorizo for pepperoni or adding your favorite seasonal veggies.
One-Skillet Wonder: Easy cleanup awaits as everything cooks together in a single pan, keeping your kitchen mess-free.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, it’s a showstopper that gets everyone excited about mealtime.
Quick Cooking: With cooked rice at its base, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!

Cheater’s Paella Ingredients

For the Rice Base
• Cold Cooked Rice – This is key for achieving the non-clumping texture that makes for a perfect Cheater’s Paella.

For the Protein
• Spanish Chorizo (or Pepperoni) – Adds a savory update; feel free to substitute with pepperoni if chorizo isn’t available.
• Chicken or Seafood (optional) – Enhance the dish’s heartiness; you can swap this based on dietary preferences.

For the Vegetables
• Bell Peppers – Adds vibrant color and natural sweetness; fresh or frozen works great.
• Peas – Brings a burst of freshness; an easy addition that enhances the dish’s nutrition.

For the Spices
• Saffron – Offers a unique flavor and beautiful coloration; use it if possible, but it’s fine to omit if you’re in a pinch.
• Paprika – Essential for depth; feel free to adjust the amount for a little extra kick.

For Garnish
• Olive Oil – A drizzle before serving elevates the flavors; it’s a must for that finishing touch.

How to Make Cheater’s Paella

Prep ingredients: Start by chopping the bell peppers and peas, and slicing the chorizo or pepperoni into thin pieces for even cooking.
Heat skillet: In a nonstick or cast-iron skillet, warm a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers, creating a lovely base for your flavors.
Sauté chorizo: Add the sliced chorizo (or pepperoni) to the skillet and cook until it’s lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes, releasing its savory goodness.
Add vegetables: Stir in the chopped bell peppers and peas, cooking until they’re softened and vibrant—approximately 3-5 minutes.
Incorporate rice: Toss in the cold cooked rice and sprinkle in the saffron and paprika; stir everything together to combine well, ensuring all grains are coated.
Crisp the bottom: Press down the mixture gently with a spatula to create the socarrat, and cook for another 5-7 minutes until a golden crust forms on the bottom.
Serve: Fluff the rice gently with a fork, drizzle some olive oil over the top, and serve hot, garnished as desired!

Optional: A squeeze of lemon adds a bright finish to your paella.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Cheater’s Paella?

The vibrant flavors of this dish beautifully enhance any table setting, inviting an array of delightful accompaniments.

Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad adds freshness, balancing the richness of the paella. Toss in a light vinaigrette for a zesty touch.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread slathered with garlic butter is perfect for sopping up the rich juices—comfort food at its best!
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, lightly seasoned and roasted, complement the dish with smoky notes while adding a healthy element.
Spanish Albariño: This bright, crisp white wine beautifully pairs with the spices in the paella, enhancing its flavor profile and making it a perfect match.
Saffron Rice: For an extra touch, serve a side of saffron rice, echoing the paella’s sumptuous flavor while creating a beautifully cohesive meal.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End on a sweet note with churros—crispy on the outside and soft inside—paired with a rich chocolate dip for an indulgent finish.

How to Store and Freeze Cheater’s Paella

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water for moisture if needed.

Freezer: For longer storage, place portions in freezer-safe containers, sealing tightly. Cheater’s Paella can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to regain that delightful texture.

Reheating: Always reheat until piping hot; this not only ensures safety but also revitalizes the flavors in your Cheater’s Paella!

Expert Tips for Cheater’s Paella

Use Cold Rice: Ensure your rice is cold and cooked ahead of time; leftover rice yields the best texture and prevents clumping.

Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on your skillet heat to avoid burning the socarrat; adjust it if necessary to achieve that crispy layer.
Avoid Overcrowding: Don’t add too much liquid; a slightly dry texture promotes a delightful socarrat while maintaining the essence of Cheater’s Paella.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap chorizo for other proteins or add seasonal veggies, but aim for similar cooking times to ensure everything cooks evenly.
Drizzle for Flavor: A last-minute drizzle of olive oil right before serving can elevate the flavors, providing a beautiful finish.

Cheater’s Paella Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this dish your own with delightful twists and substitutions that enhance flavor and ease!

Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp or chicken for chorizo to switch up the protein profile; both add a lovely texture.
Seasonal Veggies: Incorporate fresh zucchini or asparagus to highlight seasonal flavors; they bring a nice crunch and nutrients.
Smoky Flavor Boost: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for an intensified depth of flavor; it’s a game-changer!
Vegan Delight: Replace chorizo with a savory plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth for a vibrant, meat-free option.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne for a zesty kick; it’s a simple way to elevate the heat level.
Citrus Brightness: Squeeze in fresh lemon juice before serving to add a burst of brightness; it beautifully complements the spices.
Cheesy Comfort: Stir in some peas and shredded cheese as the paella finishes cooking for a creamy, comforting twist!
Gluten-Free Option: Just ensure your chorizo or sausage is gluten-free; this dish naturally fits gluten-free diets with the right swaps.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheater’s Paella are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts seeking a quick solution for busy nights! You can dice the vegetables and slice the chorizo or pepperoni up to 24 hours in advance; store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, if you have cold cooked rice on hand, it can be prepped up to 3 days ahead. When ready to serve, simply heat oil in your skillet, sauté the chorizo with the prepped vegetables until browned, and then add your rice and spices. This way, you’ll ensure that dinner is not just easy, but just as delicious and satisfying as if you made it fresh!

Cheater’s Paella Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for Cheater’s Paella?
Using cold cooked rice is essential for achieving a non-clumping texture. Leftover rice works perfectly, as it absorbs flavors well while maintaining distinct grains. Ideally, Jasmine or long-grain white rice works best, but any similar variety you have on hand can work too.

How should I store leftover Cheater’s Paella?
Store any leftover paella in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It lasts up to 3 days. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of water to keep the rice moist and flavorful.

Can I freeze Cheater’s Paella?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the paella into freezer-safe containers and seal them tightly. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for an even warm-up.

What should I do if my Cheater’s Paella becomes too sticky?
If the rice gets sticky, it’s likely because it was overcooked or there was too much moisture. If you encounter this, add a touch of olive oil while reheating to help separate the grains, and keep it on low heat, gently fluffing the rice with a fork to restore some texture.

What are some allergy considerations with Cheater’s Paella?
This dish contains potential allergens like chorizo, which may include gluten or other additives based on the brand. For those with seafood allergies, it’s best to skip any seafood additions. Always read labels carefully, and feel free to customize the recipe using ingredients that suit your dietary needs.

Can I make Cheater’s Paella vegetarian?
Certainly! Skip the chorizo and replace it with plant-based sausage or simply increase the variety of vegetables—zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms are great options. You can also add some chickpeas for added protein. Enjoying a vegetarian version is just as delicious and satisfying!