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

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Make this easy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet in just 30 minutes! A bold, flavorful one-pan meal with smoked sausage, tender rice, and zesty Cajun spices—perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  1. Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned.
    • Stir in diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes until softened.
    • Add minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Cook the Rice:
    • Pour in uncooked rice and stir to coat with the seasonings.
    • Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using).
    • Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil.
  3. Simmer:
    • Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
    • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Add extra broth or water if needed.
  4. Final Touches:
    • Stir in frozen peas, if using, and cook for 2 minutes until heated through.
    • Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes.
    • Fluff rice with a fork and garnish with sliced green onions.

Notes

  • Protein Swap: Substitute sausage with shrimp, chicken, or tofu.
  • Veggie Boost: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients.
  • Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and cayenne to your heat preference.
  • Brown Rice Option: Use brown rice, increase cook time by 10–15 minutes, and add extra broth.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: main dish
  • Method: One-Pan, Skillet
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Keywords: Cajun sausage and rice One-pan dinner Easy Cajun recipe Smoked sausage skillet Quick weeknight meal Spicy rice dish 30-minute dinner Southern comfort food Cajun rice recipe Gluten-free skillet meal

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Find it online: https://eateatfood.com/cajun-sausage-and-rice-skillet-one-pan-dinner-in-30-minutes-4/