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

A Flavorful and Easy One-Pan Meal

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect choice. Packed with bold Cajun flavors, smoky sausage, and hearty rice, this one-pan dish is both easy to make and incredibly delicious. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy evenings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
• Bold Cajun Spices – A perfect balance of heat and savory goodness.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Versatile Ingredients – Use your favorite sausage and adjust spice levels to your preference.
• Meal Prep Friendly – Stores well for leftovers and reheats beautifully.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 12 ounces smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust as needed)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, until lightly browned.
3. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for another 3 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Add Seasonings and Rice

5. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, and dried thyme, stirring to coat the vegetables and sausage evenly.
6. Add the rice, stirring for 1 minute to lightly toast it and enhance its flavor.

Step 3: Simmer

7. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir well to combine.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
9. Cover and let simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Step 4: Serve

10. Remove from heat and let the skillet sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
11. Fluff the rice with a fork, then garnish with sliced green onions.
12. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap – Try using shrimp or chicken instead of sausage.
• Vegetarian Option – Substitute sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
• Rice Alternatives – Use brown rice (adjust cooking time) or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Extra Veggies – Add celery, zucchini, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.

Servings and Timing

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

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water, or microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes! Increase the Cajun seasoning, add extra red pepper flakes, or stir in a bit of hot sauce for more heat.

What’s the best type of sausage to use?

Smoked Andouille sausage is ideal for authentic Cajun flavor, but Kielbasa or any smoked sausage works well too.

Can I use instant rice?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time accordingly, as instant rice cooks much faster than long-grain rice.

How can I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to stir well before covering, and keep the heat on low while simmering to avoid burning.

Can I add beans to this dish?

Absolutely! Red beans or black beans make a great addition for extra protein and texture.

What if my rice isn’t fully cooked?

If the liquid has been absorbed but the rice is still undercooked, add 1/4 cup of broth or water, cover, and cook for a few more minutes.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free smoked sausage and ensure all seasoning blends are gluten-free.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, simply double all ingredients and use a larger skillet or pot to accommodate the extra volume.

What side dishes pair well with this meal?

This dish pairs well with cornbread, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

How do I make it milder for kids?

Reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and choose a mild sausage variety to keep the spice level lower.

Conclusion

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a quick, easy, and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. With bold Cajun spices, hearty sausage, and tender rice, this dish will become a family favorite in no time. Plus, it’s customizable, meal prep-friendly, and requires minimal cleanup. Try it out and bring a taste of Louisiana to your table!

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