Welcome to Your New Favorite Quick & Easy Dinner!
Looking for a quick, flavorful, and easy weeknight meal? This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the answer! Packed with smoky sausage, bold Cajun spices, and fluffy rice, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious in under 30 minutes.
This Southern-inspired dish is rich, hearty, and completely satisfying. Whether you love spicy Cajun flavors or just need a simple skillet dinner, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Let’s dive into this easy Cajun sausage and rice recipe and make your kitchen smell absolutely irresistible!
Ingredients for Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
To make this one-pan Cajun rice and sausage dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion (yellow or white), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins & Substitutions
- Swap smoked sausage for chicken, shrimp, or turkey sausage.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
- Add diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
- For extra spice, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet – Step by Step
This one-pan Cajun rice recipe is incredibly simple. Follow these steps:
Step1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the smoked sausage into ½-inch rounds.
- Dice the bell peppers, onion, and mince the garlic.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Step2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step3: Sauté the Veggies
- In the same skillet, add the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
Step4: Toast the Rice
- Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and vegetables.
- Toast for about 2 minutes until it smells nutty and fragrant.
Step5: Cook the Rice
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the Cajun seasoning. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Do not stir while cooking to keep the rice fluffy and separate.
Step6: Combine & Finish
- Once the rice is fully cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.
- Stir everything together and let it cook for an extra 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step7: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with a side of cornbread or steamed veggies!
Helpful Tips for the Best Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Perfectly Cooked Rice: Always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness.
- Boost the Flavor: Browning the sausage first creates an extra layer of deep, smoky flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a milder version, reduce Cajun seasoning or use a mild sausage. For more heat, add extra cayenne or hot sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best One-Pan Cajun Skillet
- Use a large skillet (preferably cast iron) for even cooking.
- Keep it covered while the rice is cooking to trap steam.
- Don’t over-stir the rice while it simmers—this keeps it fluffy instead of mushy.
Serving Suggestions for Cajun Sausage and Rice
Looking for side dishes to serve with your Cajun sausage and rice? Try these:
- Cornbread – The slight sweetness balances the spicy Cajun flavors.
- Steamed Broccoli – Adds a fresh, crisp contrast.
- Coleslaw – Creamy and refreshing!
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for scooping up the flavorful sauce.
Nutritional Information
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a hearty and satisfying meal.
Nutritional Info per Serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fats: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
Storage and Leftovers for Cajun Sausage and Rice
Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! But it takes longer to cook (35-40 minutes) and requires more liquid.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
Make your own by mixing:
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cayenne
- ½ tsp thyme
- ½ tsp oregano
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
What other proteins can I use?
Try shrimp, chicken, or turkey sausage for variety!
Related Recipes for Cajun Lovers
Looking for more dinner ideas? Try these!
Final Thoughts – Why You’ll Love This Cajun Sausage and Rice Recipe
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect quick dinner—flavorful, easy to make, and all in one pan! Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food or need a fast and satisfying meal, this recipe delivers BIG bold flavors every time.
Give it a try tonight and let us know how you like it in the comments! Don’t forget to pin & share this recipe for later!
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Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet – A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Dinner
Description
Looking for a quick, flavorful, and easy weeknight meal? This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the answer! Packed with smoky sausage, bold Cajun spices, and fluffy rice, this one-pan meal is perfect for busy nights when you need something delicious in under 30 minutes.
This Southern-inspired dish is rich, hearty, and completely satisfying. Whether you love spicy Cajun flavors or just need a simple skillet dinner, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Let’s dive into this easy Cajun sausage and rice recipe and make your kitchen smell absolutely irresistible!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion (yellow or white), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins & Substitutions
- Swap smoked sausage for chicken, shrimp, or turkey sausage.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
- Add diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
- For extra spice, add hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
Instructions
Step1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the smoked sausage into ½-inch rounds.
- Dice the bell peppers, onion, and mince the garlic.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Step2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and slightly crispy.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step3: Sauté the Veggies
- In the same skillet, add the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
Step4: Toast the Rice
- Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the oil and vegetables.
- Toast for about 2 minutes until it smells nutty and fragrant.
Step5: Cook the Rice
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the Cajun seasoning. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Do not stir while cooking to keep the rice fluffy and separate.
Step6: Combine & Finish
- Once the rice is fully cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.
- Stir everything together and let it cook for an extra 3-5 minutes to blend the flavors.
Step7: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with a side of cornbread or steamed veggies!
Equipment
2Pcs Heart Shape Cake Pans, Aluminum Heart Cake Mold, Reusable 10 inch
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Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
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- Perfectly Cooked Rice: Always rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent stickiness.
- Boost the Flavor: Browning the sausage first creates an extra layer of deep, smoky flavor.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a milder version, reduce Cajun seasoning or use a mild sausage. For more heat, add extra cayenne or hot sauce.
