Description
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 quick and easy dinner in just 30 minutes.
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)
- ½ cup frozen peas (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- 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!
Notes
- Make It Spicier – Add extra red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a spicier Cajun seasoning.
- Different Protein – Swap sausage for shrimp, chicken, or ground turkey.
- Vegetarian Version – Omit the sausage and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.
- Brown Rice Option – Use brown rice instead of white, increasing the cooking time to 35–40 minutes and adding extra broth if needed.
- Low-Carb Alternative – Substitute cauliflower rice and reduce the broth accordingly.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: cajun
Keywords: Cajun rice skillet, one-pan dinner, easy Cajun recipe, sausage and rice, quick skillet meal