Easy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe: A One-Pan Wonder

Comfort meets bold flavors in this hearty cajun sausage and rice skillet that delivers a spicy punch.

Andouille sausage brings robust smokiness to the classic one-pan meal that promises pure satisfaction.

Zesty seasonings dance across tender rice and juicy meat, creating a symphony of southern-inspired goodness.

Onions, bell peppers, and garlic weave their aromatic magic into every single bite.

The dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something substantial and flavorful.

Peppered with cajun spices and packed with protein, this skillet meal transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dinner.

Grab a fork and let the culinary adventure begin!

Why Cajun Sausage Rice Is Full of Flavor

• Savor Quick and Satisfying Flavors: This Cajun sausage and rice skillet delivers bold, mouthwatering taste in one incredible pan.
• Family-Friendly Comfort: Packed with hearty sausage, colorful vegetables, and spicy Cajun seasoning, this dish appeals to both kids and adults, creating a crowd-pleasing meal everyone will enjoy.
• No-Fuss One-Pan Dish: Streamline your cooking process by using a single skillet, reducing cleanup time and making meal preparation incredibly convenient for any skill level.

Ingredients for a One-Skillet Cajun Dinner

• Sausage: Flavorful meat with a spicy kick.

• Onion, Bell Peppers, Garlic: Fresh vegetables that add depth and aroma.

• Rice: Fluffy grain that soaks up delicious flavors.
• Chicken Broth: Rich liquid that helps cook the rice perfectly.

• Cajun Seasoning: Spicy blend that brings Cajun-style excitement.
• Olive Oil: Smooth cooking oil for sautéing.
• Parsley, Green Onions: Fresh herbs for a bright garnish.
• Hot Sauce: Zesty optional topping for extra heat.

How to Cook Cajun Sausage and Rice in One Pan

Step 1: Prep the Flavor Makers

Grab your cutting board and get ready to chop!

• Slice sausage into juicy half-inch rounds
• Dice bell peppers into colorful chunks
• Chop onions into small pieces
• Mince garlic until super fine
• Rinse rice under cool water until it looks crystal clear

Step 2: Sizzle the Sausage

Fire up a large skillet with a splash of olive oil over medium heat.

Toss in sausage rounds and let them dance around until they develop crispy golden edges.

This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Once they’re looking irresistible, scoop them out and set aside.

Step 3: Wake Up the Vegetables

In the same skillet, throw in your diced onions and bell peppers.

Let them soften and become slightly translucent, stirring occasionally.

Drop in the minced garlic and let it release its aromatic magic for about a minute.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the veggie party.

Stir everything together, letting the rice toast and absorb those incredible flavors.

Keep stirring until the rice smells nutty and starts turning a light golden color.

Step 5: Liquid Magic

Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle Cajun seasoning all over.

Give everything a good stir.

Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low.

Cover the skillet and let it simmer quietly for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid disappears.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Return those crispy sausage pieces back to the skillet.

Gently mix everything so flavors can mingle and get acquainted.

Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes.

Step 7: Serve and Celebrate

Scoop this spicy masterpiece onto plates.

For extra excitement, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, green onions, and a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.

Dig in and enjoy your flavor explosion!

Tips for Nailing That Spicy Cajun Taste

• Remove excess starch by washing rice under cold water until it runs clear, preventing sticky or gummy texture in the final dish.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning quantity to match your heat preference, starting with less and adding more gradually for perfect flavor balance.
• Select andouille or smoked sausage for authentic Cajun taste, ensuring it's pre-cooked and adds rich, smoky depth to the skillet.
• Keep heat low and use a tight-fitting lid while simmering rice to ensure even cooking and prevent scorching at the bottom of the skillet.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley or green onions just before serving to add brightness and enhance the overall flavor profile of the dish.

How to Store and Reheat This Spicy Skillet

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cool the dish completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Place a portion in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent drying, and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Warm the skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of broth or water, and stir gently to restore moisture and redistribute the sausage and rice evenly. Cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through.
• Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.

What to Serve With Cajun Sausage and Rice

• Perfectly Paired Wine Selection: Choose a robust Zinfandel or Syrah with bold, spicy notes that complement the Cajun seasoning and sausage's rich flavor profile.
• Cooling Beverage Companion: Grab a crisp, cold Louisiana-style beer like Abita Amber or Bayou Teche LA-31 to balance the dish's heat and enhance the Cajun experience.
• Fresh Herb Sidekick: Serve with a zesty green salad topped with a light citrus vinaigrette to cut through the skillet's richness and provide a refreshing contrast.
• Creamy Sauce Accent: Whip up a quick remoulade or spicy aioli on the side for dipping, adding an extra layer of tangy, creamy complexity to each bite.

Flavor Combo Ideas for Cajun Sausage and Rice

• Vegetarian Rice Bowl: Replace sausage with plant-based protein like seasoned tofu, tempeh, or black beans. Keep Cajun spices for robust flavor and maintain similar cooking technique.
• Seafood Cajun Rice: Swap sausage with shrimp or crawfish for a coastal Louisiana-inspired version. Use same seasonings and cooking method while reducing cooking time for seafood.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Option: Substitute rice with riced cauliflower to create a lighter, keto-friendly meal. Maintain Cajun seasoning and cooking steps, reducing overall cooking time for cauliflower.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Ensure all ingredients like broth and Cajun seasoning are certified gluten-free. Use gluten-free sausage and verify no cross-contamination during preparation.

FAQs

• What is Cajun seasoning and can I make my own?

Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend typically containing paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne. You can easily make it at home by mixing these dried spices in equal proportions, adjusting the heat level to your preference.

• Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?

Absolutely! While andouille sausage is traditional, you can substitute with smoked sausage, kielbasa, or even turkey sausage. Each will provide a slightly different flavor profile but work well in the dish.

• Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Store-bought blends vary in heat, so start with a moderate amount and add more if you want extra kick. You can always adjust the spiciness by using less seasoning or choosing a mild version.

• What if I don't have chicken broth?

You can replace chicken broth with vegetable broth or water. If using water, consider adding a bouillon cube or extra seasonings to enhance the flavor depth of the dish.

Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

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4.7 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Spicy Cajun sausage and rice skillet brings Louisiana’s soulful flavors to your dinner table. Hearty ingredients meld together in one pan, creating a quick, satisfying meal that transports you to the heart of New Orleans with each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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Proteins:

• 0.5 ounces (14 grams) smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced into 0.5-inch rounds

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 medium yellow or white onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)

Base and Seasonings:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1.5 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. Slice andouille sausage into uniform medallions, ensuring even cooking and visual appeal.
2. Prepare aromatics by finely chopping bell peppers, onion, and garlic to create a flavor foundation.
3. Rinse rice thoroughly under cold water, agitating gently to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium flame and add olive oil, creating a thin, shimmering layer.
5. Sear sausage rounds until edges develop a deep golden-brown crust, releasing rich, smoky flavors.
6. Transfer crispy sausage to a plate, leaving behind flavorful drippings in the skillet.
7. Introduce diced vegetables to the pan, allowing them to soften and caramelize slightly.
8. Incorporate minced garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning and maximize aromatic potential.
9. Add rinsed rice, coating grains with vegetable oils and toasting until they emit a nutty fragrance.
10. Pour chicken broth into the skillet, sprinkling Cajun seasoning for a robust, spicy profile.
11. Reduce heat, cover skillet, and allow rice to simmer, absorbing liquid and developing tender texture.
12. Gently fold sausage back into the rice mixture, ensuring even distribution of ingredients.
13. Let the dish rest briefly, allowing flavors to harmonize and intensify.
14. Plate the skillet meal, garnishing with fresh herbs and optional hot sauce for added zest.

Notes

• Rinse rice thoroughly to prevent clumping and ensure separate, fluffy grains that absorb flavors perfectly.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity by using mild or hot variants to match personal spice tolerance and preference.
• Choose smoked sausage like andouille for authentic Cajun flavor or swap with turkey sausage for a leaner protein option.
• Prep vegetables uniformly to guarantee even cooking and consistent texture throughout the skillet dish.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 620 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 10 g
• Cholesterol: 30 mg