Looking for a quick, hearty meal with bold flavors? This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect weeknight dinner!
Packed with smoky sausage, vibrant veggies, and a punch of Cajun seasoning, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes—all in one pan.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pan Wonder – Less cleanup, more flavor!
- Bold & Spicy – The perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and savory.
- Customizable – Add shrimp, chicken, or extra veggies to switch it up.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the edges are browned and slightly crispy.
This caramelization enhances the dish’s deep, smoky flavor.
Step 2: Cook the Veggies
Add diced onions, chopped bell peppers, and minced garlic to the skillet.
Sauté for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Toast the Rice & Spices
Stir in uncooked rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the rice toast for 1-2 minutes to develop a deeper, nuttier flavor.
Toasting the rice before adding liquids enhances its texture.
Step 4: Simmer the Dish
Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly distributed.
Bring to a boil, then cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Step 5: Fluff & Garnish
Once the rice is fully cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Garnish with sliced green onions for a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the smoky and spicy flavors.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
Serve hot, and enjoy this Cajun-inspired dish on its own or with sides like cornbread, coleslaw, or a crisp green salad.
Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Use Andouille Sausage – For a more authentic Cajun flavor, use andouille sausage instead of regular smoked sausage.
- Adjust the Heat – Increase the spiciness by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use the Right Rice – Long-grain rice works best because it stays fluffy and separate. Avoid short-grain rice, which can become mushy.
- Don’t Stir Too Much – Once the rice is simmering, resist the urge to stir. Too much stirring can cause it to become sticky.
- Make It Creamy – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or shredded cheese at the end for a creamy twist.
Recipe Variations
- Cajun Chicken and Rice – Swap the sausage for cubed chicken breast or thighs.
- Shrimp Cajun Rice – Add peeled and deveined shrimp in the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Vegetarian Version – Skip the sausage and add extra bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Extra Smoky Flavor – Use fire-roasted tomatoes instead of regular diced tomatoes.
- Low-Carb Option – Substitute cauliflower rice but reduce the broth amount.
What to Serve with Cajun Sausage and Rice
This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
- Cornbread – A slightly sweet contrast to the spicy Cajun flavors.
- Garlic Bread – For soaking up the delicious juices.
- Side Salad – A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the dish.
- Steamed Greens – Collard greens or sautéed spinach add a nutritious touch.
FAQs
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! However, brown rice takes 40-45 minutes to cook, so you may need to add extra broth and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
2. How spicy is this dish?
It has a mild to moderate spice level, but you can adjust it by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or paprika.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.
4. Can I freeze Cajun Sausage and Rice?
Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
5. What’s the best type of sausage for this recipe?
Andouille sausage is traditional in Cajun cuisine, but you can also use smoked kielbasa, chorizo, or even turkey sausage for a leaner option.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a game-changer for busy nights. It’s comforting, full of bold flavors, and incredibly easy to make.
If you’re looking for a quick dinner, a meal prep option, or a crowd-pleasing dish, this one-pan wonder delivers every time.
Serve it with a side of cornbread or a simple salad, and you’ve got a meal the whole family will love. Give it a try tonight!