Name: Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste); ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

There's nothing quite like the bold, smoky flavors of Cajun cuisine, and this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is no exception. With juicy, seasoned sausage, tender rice, and a medley of bell peppers and spices, this dish brings the taste of Louisiana straight to your dinner table.

I first made this recipe on a night when I wanted something hearty yet simple. With just one pan and under 30 minutes, I had a meal bursting with spice and comfort, perfect for a busy weeknight. It's since become a family favorite, requested time and again for its rich flavors and easy preparation.

Why You'll Love This Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to weeknight dinner. This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is packed with flavor and comes together in no time.

First off, this dish is incredibly quick and easy. In just 30 minutes, you can have a hot and satisfying meal on the table with minimal effort.

It's also budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like rice, sausage, and vegetables, you can feed a whole family without breaking the bank.

Not to mention, it's a one-pan wonder. Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, making it a stress-free dinner option.

Plus, this recipe is versatile. You can easily switch up the sausage type, add extra veggies, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet bold ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of heat, smokiness, and heartiness.

Andouille sausage is the star of this dish. Its smoky, spicy flavor adds depth and pairs beautifully with the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a milder option, kielbasa or smoked sausage work well too.

Long-grain white rice is ideal for this skillet meal. It cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the broth and spices. If using brown rice, you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid.

Bell peppers bring a slight sweetness that balances out the heat. A mix of red, yellow, and green peppers not only adds flavor but also makes the dish visually appealing.

Cajun seasoning is what ties everything together. You can use store-bought or make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme.

You'll also need chicken broth, which provides moisture and enhances the overall richness of the dish. For extra depth, use homemade broth if available.

How To Make This Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet

Making this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is as easy as it gets. With just one pan and a handful of steps, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful meal in no time.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and sliced Andouille sausage. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it develops a beautiful golden-brown sear.

Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside. In the same skillet, add diced bell peppers and onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften and the onions turn translucent.

Next, stir in minced garlic and Cajun seasoning. Cook for another minute, letting the spices bloom and release their aroma.

Pour in uncooked rice and chicken broth, then return the sausage to the pan. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly distributed and submerged in the broth.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover the skillet, and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook undisturbed for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Fluff the rice with a fork, give everything a final stir, and your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is ready to serve!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, don't worry! This dish stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.

For refrigeration, transfer the cooled rice and sausage mixture into an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It can last for up to 3 months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating is simple—just warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice from drying out. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to get creative with it!

If you want a milder version, swap the Andouille sausage for kielbasa or a turkey sausage with less heat.

Looking to add more protein? Stir in some cooked shrimp or shredded chicken toward the end of cooking for an extra boost.

For a veggie-packed twist, throw in some diced zucchini, mushrooms, or even spinach. They’ll blend seamlessly with the flavors while adding extra nutrition.

Not a fan of white rice? Try brown rice or quinoa. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

Want it extra spicy? Add an extra dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to kick up the heat!

No matter how you tweak it, this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy the bold flavors and easy cleanup!