Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet (One-Pan Dinner in 30 Minutes!)

A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal, Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet combines smoked sausage, bold Cajun spices, tender rice, and sautéed vegetables for a delicious and easy weeknight dinner. With minimal prep and just one skillet required, this dish is perfect for busy households looking for a quick, satisfying meal without the extra cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• One-Pan Convenience – Less mess and fewer dishes to wash.
• Bold Cajun Flavors – A perfect blend of spices and smoky sausage for a taste of Louisiana.
• Customizable – Easily adjust the spice level or swap ingredients based on what you have.
• Balanced Meal – Includes protein, vegetables, and grains in one dish.

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Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

5. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the oil and vegetables.
6. Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.

Step 3: Simmer and Finish

7. Return the sausage to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
9. If using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

10. Once the rice is fully cooked, remove from heat and let sit for 5 minutes.
11. Fluff with a fork and sprinkle with sliced green onions and fresh parsley.
12. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make It Spicier – Use extra red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a spicier variety of Cajun seasoning.
• Different Protein – Swap sausage for shrimp, chicken, or ground turkey.
• Vegetarian Version – Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or black beans.
• Brown Rice Option – Use brown rice instead of white, but increase the cooking time to about 35–40 minutes and add extra broth if needed.
• Low-Carb Alternative – Substitute cauliflower rice and reduce the broth accordingly.

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Servings and Cooking Time

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.
• Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning and optional red pepper flakes. You can adjust both to suit your taste.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but reduce the broth to about ½ cup and simmer for a shorter time since the rice is already cooked.

What type of sausage is best?

Andouille sausage is the best choice for authentic Cajun flavor, but kielbasa or smoked sausage works well too.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Try adding celery, okra, or even diced tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor.

How can I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium chicken broth and Cajun seasoning, and avoid adding extra salt.

What’s the best way to make it more creamy?

Stir in a little heavy cream or shredded cheese at the end for a creamy texture.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients except the rice and peas, then cook on low for 4 hours. Stir in cooked rice and peas at the end.

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free sausage and Cajun seasoning.

What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs well with cornbread, coleslaw, or a simple side salad.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use a larger skillet or a Dutch oven to ensure even cooking.

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Conclusion

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the ultimate one-pan meal—quick, flavorful, and easy to clean up. Whether you’re craving a cozy weeknight dinner or need a last-minute meal idea, this dish delivers bold Cajun flavors with minimal effort. Try it out and customize it to your taste!

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