If you’re hunting for a soul-satisfying, easy weeknight dinner that brings a touch of Louisiana to your kitchen, the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet will instantly become your new favorite. This one-pan wonder is packed with smoky sausage, fluffy rice, bold Cajun spices, and pops of colorful veggies for a dish that’s as simple as it is crave-worthy. The best part? It all comes together with hardly any fuss and delivers huge flavor in every bite. Whether cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a true flavor hero that you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is that every ingredient matters, yet most are pantry staples you probably already have at home. Each component brings its own spark to the party, whether it’s the robust smokiness of the sausage, the gentle heat of Cajun seasoning, or the burst of color from crisp veggies. Here’s how everything plays its part in this dynamite meal:
- Smoked sausage (12 oz, sliced into rounds): Infuses the skillet with deep, savory flavor and those irresistible caramelized edges.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps brown the sausage and soften the veggies for a silky, flavorful base.
- Onion, small (diced): Adds natural sweetness and classic depth—don’t skip it!
- Red bell pepper (diced): Brings brightness, crunch, and subtle sweetness that balances the spice.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Gives the dish a delicious aromatic boost.
- Long-grain white rice (1 cup, uncooked): The ultimate comfort grain, soaks up all those Cajun flavors.
- Chicken broth (2 1/4 cups): Delivers extra richness while cooking the rice to tender perfection.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz, with juices): Lends a tangy lift that brightens everything up.
- Cajun seasoning (1 1/2 tsp): The star of the dish! Brings smoky, spicy, and savory notes.
- Paprika (1/2 tsp): Enhances warmth and adds color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Lets you fine-tune the flavor to suit your palate.
- Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish): A fresh pop of color and flavor to finish things off beautifully.
How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced smoked sausage. Let those slices sear for about 5–6 minutes until both sides are gorgeously browned and slightly crisp. This not only builds flavor but also gives the sausage a really satisfying bite. Remove the sausage and keep it handy—you’ll add it back in a minute.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet (don’t clean it out—those tasty browned bits are flavor gold!), toss in your diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté everything for around 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until the veggies soften and soak up some of that sausage goodness. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to let it burn.
Step 3: Build the Base
Pour in the uncooked long-grain rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Give everything a thorough stir so the spices and rice are evenly spread. This is where the skillet starts to resemble a Cajun masterpiece in the making.
Step 4: Simmer Everything Together
Return the browned sausage rounds to the skillet, nestling them into the rice mixture. Bring the whole thing up to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it all simmer for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Stay patient—this step is where the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet truly comes alive!
Step 5: Rest, Fluff, and Garnish
Remove the skillet from the heat and keep it covered for another 5 minutes. This final rest helps the rice finish steaming and keeps everything fluffy. Right before serving, fluff with a fork and sprinkle generously with chopped green onions or parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
How to Serve Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
Garnishes
A shower of chopped green onions or parsley adds a fresh hit of flavor and a vibrant burst of green that makes the whole skillet even more inviting. If you like extra heat, a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne can’t hurt! Some folks like a squeeze of lemon for zing—it’s all about adding a personal touch.
Side Dishes
Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is hearty enough to shine alone, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad, cornbread, or some roasted okra for a Southern-inspired spread. Even a simple helping of steamed green beans or a pile of sautéed greens complements its bold flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet straight from the skillet for rustic charm, or scoop portions into colorful bowls for a modern twist. For parties, spoon it into small cups or lettuce wraps for easy finger food. This dish adapts to any occasion—family supper, potluck, or weeknight comfort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet keeps wonderfully in the fridge! Let it cool, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh for up to four days, making it a delicious option for grab-and-go lunches or quick reheats any night of the week.
Freezing
Want to save some for later? Pop any cooled leftovers into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Squeeze out as much air as possible and freeze for up to three months. The flavors only get better over time, so it’s a great candidate for easy freezer meals.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the rice seems dry. For a quick fix, the microwave works well too—just cover lightly and heat in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between so everything heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just be aware that brown rice takes longer to cook and might require a little more chicken broth. Start by adding an extra quarter cup of broth and simmer for 30–35 minutes, checking for tenderness.
What type Main Course
Smoked sausage is classic, but andouille gives a spicy, authentic Cajun twist. Kielbasa, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage will all work beautifully, depending on your preference.
Is Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet spicy?
The average Cajun seasoning blend offers warmth but isn’t overly hot. If you like more fire, add an extra pinch of cayenne or pick a spicier sausage. If mild is more your style, just scale back on the Cajun seasoning.
Can I add extra vegetables?
Definitely! Spinach, peas, or diced zucchini all make terrific additions. Toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking so they stay vibrant and don’t overcook.
Can I prepare Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet ahead of time for meal prep?
Yes—this dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make a batch ahead, divide into individual containers, and store in the fridge or freezer. It reheats beautifully and keeps its flavor and texture all week.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving bold flavors with minimal effort, give Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet a try—it’ll soon become a regular at your table. Don’t be surprised if everyone requests seconds, and remember, there are endless creative ways to make it your own. Enjoy every smoky, spicy, satisfying bite!
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Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A flavorful Cajun-inspired one-pan meal, this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a delicious combination of smoked sausage, vegetables, and Cajun seasonings cooked together with rice in a savory broth.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 12 oz smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion (diced)
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5–6 minutes.
- Remove sausage from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the uncooked rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juice), Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Return the sausage to the skillet and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with green onions or parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use andouille sausage for a spicier kick or add cayenne for more heat.
- This dish reheats well and makes great leftovers.
- For a veggie boost, stir in spinach or peas at the end of cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
