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

Looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal? This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a perfect choice. Made in just one pan, this dish is packed with bold Cajun flavors, hearty smoked sausage, and tender rice. It’s a fantastic weeknight dinner that comes together in 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy families or anyone craving a comforting meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Bold Cajun Flavors: A blend of smoky, spicy, and savory tastes.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different proteins and vegetables.
• Hearty and Filling: A complete meal with protein, veggies, and rice.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 ounces smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red, green, or yellow), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra spice)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned.
3. Stir in the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

5. Pour in the uncooked rice and stir to coat with the seasonings.
6. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
7. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.

Step 3: Simmer

8. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
9. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If needed, add a splash of broth or water.

Step 4: Final Touches

10. If using, stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
11. Remove from heat and let the dish sit for 5 minutes, covered.
12. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with sliced green onions.

Recipe Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, chicken, or even tofu instead of sausage.
• Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrients.
• Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning and cayenne to your preferred heat.
• Brown Rice Option: Substitute brown rice, but increase the cooking time by 10–15 minutes and add extra broth if needed.

Servings & Cooking Time

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

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper used. You can adjust both to your preference.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, but reduce the broth to ½ cup and simmer for only 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

What’s the best sausage to use?

Andouille sausage is ideal for an authentic Cajun taste, but Kielbasa or any smoked sausage works well.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, but it’s best to sauté the sausage and veggies first for depth of flavor. Cook on low for 3–4 hours.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes, but you may need to add extra broth.

How do I prevent the rice from sticking?

Stir occasionally and ensure there’s enough liquid. Using a non-stick or well-seasoned cast-iron skillet also helps.

Can I add beans?

Absolutely! Black beans or kidney beans make a great addition.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the sausage and seasonings are gluten-free. Always check labels.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or extra veggies and use vegetable broth.

What should I serve with this dish?

It’s a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with cornbread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights. Packed with smoky sausage, flavorful spices, and tender rice, it’s hearty, delicious, and incredibly easy to make. Plus, with so many ways to customize it, this dish can be adapted to suit any taste preference. Give it a try and bring a taste of Cajun comfort to your table tonight!

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