If you’re craving a dish that practically bursts with down-home comfort and bold, zesty flavor, the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. This one-pan wonder brings together savory sausage, fragrant rice, sweet bell peppers, and a medley of punchy Cajun spices for a hearty meal that’s ready in under an hour. It’s the kind of recipe that earns applause around the dinner table—simple enough for busy nights, but flavorful enough to impress anyone lucky enough to snag a serving. If you’re looking for a no-fuss meal that delivers big on taste and warmth, this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is just how accessible the ingredients are—you’ll probably find most in your pantry or fridge right now! Each ingredient plays its part, bringing delicious aromas, vivid colors, and layers of irresistible flavor to the party.
- Olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for browning the sausage and sautéing the veggies.
- Smoked sausage (such as andouille): Infuses the dish with smoky, spicy Cajun flavor—choose your favorite or try turkey sausage for a lighter twist.
- Onion: Diced onion gives savory depth and a touch of sweetness.
- Red bell pepper: Offers sweetness and vibrant color that makes the skillet pop.
- Green bell pepper: Brings subtle bitterness and balances the peppers’ flavors.
- Garlic: Just two cloves add a fragrant kick that thinks big despite its size.
- Long-grain white rice: Perfect for absorbing all the rich flavors while staying fluffy and never mushy.
- Chicken broth: Helps the rice soak up savory goodness and adds depth to every bite.
- Diced tomatoes: Drained for just the right balance of acidity and sweetness.
- Cajun seasoning: The heart of bold flavor, this blend gives the whole skillet its signature zip.
- Paprika: Adds warmth, color, and subtle smokiness.
- Dried thyme: A little goes a long way; thyme imparts an earthy note that ties everything together.
- Black pepper: A little kick for just the right amount of heat.
- Salt to taste: Adjust as you like to bring all the flavors to life.
- Green onions (for garnish): Fresh and peppery, these finish the dish with a burst of color and crunch.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, herbal note to brighten each serving.
How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the sliced sausage and let it sizzle away for about 5 to 6 minutes—browning the sausage here adds extra depth to the finished dish and amps up the savory, smoky flavor you’ll taste in every bite. Once browned, scoop the sausage out and set it aside, but keep that flavorful oil in the pan for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies
In the same skillet (no need to wash—there’s flavor gold in there!), add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until they just soften and their colors glow. Don’t rush this step; a gentle sauté coaxes out their natural sweetness for the perfect balance in your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe.
Step 3: Let the Garlic Shine
Add in the minced garlic next, and let it cook for about 30 seconds. You’re looking for that irresistible, fragrant burst—garlic cooks quick, so keep an eye out and make sure it doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Toast the Rice
Now, stir in the uncooked long-grain white rice and cook it for 1 to 2 minutes. Toasting the rice just slightly helps keep its texture perfect and ensures every grain will take on the lively flavors of this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe.
Step 5: Simmer It All Together
Pour in the chicken broth, add the drained diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, black pepper, and a good pinch of salt. Stir everything together—this is where your kitchen starts smelling amazing! Return the browned sausage to the skillet, give one last stir, then bring it all to a gentle boil.
Step 6: Cover and Cook
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 20 to 22 minutes. The rice should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed—peek if you need to, but keeping the lid on as much as possible ensures everything cooks evenly in this fabulous Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe.
Step 7: Fluff and Finish
Remove your skillet from the heat and let it sit, covered, for five blissful minutes (this lets the steam finish cooking the rice to perfection). Then, fluff with a fork and sprinkle generously with sliced green onions and parsley if you like a little extra freshness.
How to Serve Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
This dish is stunning with a simple sprinkle of sliced green onions and a handful of chopped fresh parsley. For a little extra flair, try an extra dash of Cajun seasoning or even a few dashes of hot sauce if you love bold flavors—these garnishes bring both beauty and brightness to your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe.
Side Dishes
While this skillet is a complete meal in itself, you can round out your table with warm, crusty French bread or a classic green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette. If you have folks with big appetites, serve alongside sautéed okra, buttered corn, or even some roasted sweet potatoes for a real Southern feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual dinners, serve the skillet right at the table and let everyone dig in family-style. If you’re feeling festive, spoon individual portions into colorful bowls and top each with extra parsley and a wedge of lemon. Leftovers also pack perfectly into meal-prep containers for quick, satisfying lunches all week long.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe can be tucked away in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors mingle and deepen, making each reheated scoop as comforting as the day you cooked it!
Freezing
If you’d like to keep your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe on hand even longer, just let it cool completely and freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. It will keep beautifully for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For quick lunches or fuss-free dinners, reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep things moist. You can also warm it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until everything’s piping hot and delicious again.
FAQs
Can I substitute brown rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer brown rice, simply add a bit more chicken broth and increase the cooking time by about 10–15 minutes. Brown rice is a nutritious swap and stands up beautifully to the bold flavors.
How spicy is this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe?
The heat level depends on your sausage and Cajun seasoning. It’s typically mild with a little bite—if you love a big kick, add cayenne pepper or a drizzle of hot sauce to your taste.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free, this entire skillet dish is a safe, crave-worthy choice for those avoiding gluten.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Traditionally, andouille sausage gives the most authentic kick, but smoked sausage or turkey sausage work wonderfully. Choose your favorite, and don’t be afraid to experiment!
Can I make this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Use plant-based sausage and swap in vegetable broth. You’ll still get plenty of smoky, spicy flavor and a satisfying, protein-rich skillet meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that’s ready in a single pan, look no further than the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe. With big personality, easy steps, and endless adaptability, you’ll find yourself craving this skillet again and again—so gather your ingredients, invite your loved ones, and dig into a recipe that’s sure to become a forever favorite!
Print
Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is a flavorful one-pan meal that combines smoked sausage, colorful bell peppers, and Cajun spices with tender rice. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces smoked sausage (such as andouille), sliced into rounds
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5–6 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion and bell peppers, and cook until softened, about 4–5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1–2 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir to combine. Return the sausage to the skillet.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20–22 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with green onions and parsley before serving.
Notes
- Adjust the heat level by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you like it spicier.
- You can substitute brown rice but increase the cooking time and liquid slightly.
- For a lighter version, use turkey sausage.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
