Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Introduction

This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder, packed with bold, smoky flavors. With smoked sausage, fresh veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, this hearty dish comes together in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a taste of the South.

Why Make This Recipe

One-Pan Simplicity

Everything cooks in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Bursting with Flavor

Cajun seasoning, smoky sausage, and fresh vegetables deliver bold, comforting flavors in every bite.

Quick and Easy

Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients

  • 12 oz smoked sausage (such as 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
  • 1½ cups chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Garnishes:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Green onions, sliced
  • Hot sauce, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Slice the sausage into ½-inch rounds.
  2. Dice the bell peppers and onion, and mince the garlic.
  3. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. Cook the Sausage

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges.
  3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Veggies

  1. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.
  2. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

4. Toast the Rice

  1. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.
  2. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to smell fragrant.

5. Cook the Rice

  1. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir to combine.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  3. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

6. Combine and Finish

  1. Once the rice is cooked, add the sausage back to the skillet.
  2. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

7. Serve

  1. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.

Pro Tips

  1. Rinse the Rice: Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing clumpy rice.
  2. Customize Heat: Adjust the spice level by adding more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
  3. Use Fresh Sausage: Freshly cooked sausage adds maximum flavor and texture.

Time & Serving Info

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Calories: 450 kcal per serving

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