If you’re craving a dish that’s bold, comforting, and loaded with Southern charm, let me introduce you to my all-time favorite: Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet. This one-pan wonder brings together smoky sausage, colorful sweet peppers, and aromatic rice, all seasoned to perfection with that irresistible Cajun kick. Every bite bursts with flavor and comes together so quickly, you’ll wonder how something this easy can make you feel like a kitchen superstar. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or dinner with friends, Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the kind of meal you’ll want to celebrate over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish is proof that when you combine just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create magic. Each component contributes an essential note, blending taste, color, and irresistible texture into every spoonful. Here’s what you’ll need—and why they matter:
- Smoked Sausage: Choose Andouille or Kielbasa for authentic smoky flavor and a touch of spice; slice into hearty rounds for the best texture.
- Long-Grain White Rice: Rinse it well—this keeps the grains fluffy and separate, soaking up all those spectacular flavors.
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds vibrant color and a sweet bite that balances the heat.
- Green Bell Pepper: Lends a classic savory note and an eye-catching contrast to the red pepper.
- Onion (Yellow or White): Provides the savory backbone that forms the aromatic base of your skillet.
- Garlic: Mince fresh cloves for maximum pungency and depth—there’s nothing like it.
- Chicken Broth: Infuses the rice with rich, savory flavor; go with low-sodium if you like to control the seasoning.
- Cajun Seasoning: The secret to that unmistakable Southern flair; use your favorite blend or make your own for more control over the heat.
- Olive Oil: Just a bit is needed to help everything brown and meld together beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Taste as you go—they finish the dish and help all the other flavors pop.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Sprinkle over the top for a fresh, herby finish and a touch of brightness.
- Green Onions (optional): Brings a little crunch and another layer of flavor to the final dish.
- Hot Sauce (optional): For those who want an extra zip of spicy tang right at the table.
How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering everything you need. Slice your sausage into hearty half-inch rounds to get that perfect combination of crispy edges and juicy centers. Chop your bell peppers and onion into even pieces, and mince your garlic so the flavor spreads beautifully throughout. For the rice, give it a good rinse in cold water until the water runs clear—this little trick helps your finished Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet have perfectly fluffy grains every time.
Step 2: Cook the Sausage
Heat your olive oil in a large skillet set over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the sausage slices, letting them brown for about 5 to 7 minutes. Turn them occasionally so all sides get that smoky, crisped-up edge. When they’re golden and bursting with fragrance, use a slotted spoon to move the sausage to a plate—keep those flavorful drippings in the pan for the next step.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet, toss in your diced onion and both bell peppers. Sauté for three minutes or so, just until they’re softening and looking vibrant. Add the minced garlic next and stir it all around, letting the aroma swirl through your kitchen for another minute. It’s the little touches like this that build the fantastic base of flavor in this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet.
Step 4: Toast the Rice
Now, add your rinsed rice straight to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir everything to make sure those grains are coated in the delicious oil and veggie goodness. Take a moment to let the rice toast for about two minutes, stirring every so often. You’ll notice a toasty aroma—this step gives the finished dish an extra layer of flavor you’ll absolutely love.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle that spicy Cajun seasoning over everything. Give it all a good mix, then crank up the heat to bring your skillet to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, drop the heat to low, pop a lid on, and let it simmer away for 15 to 20 minutes. When the rice is tender and the liquid is all soaked up, you’re almost there!
Step 6: Combine and Finish
Gently stir the cooked sausage back into the skillet and fold everything together. Let it heat through for another three to five minutes, allowing all the flavors to mingle and meld into pure perfection. Taste for salt and pepper, adjust as needed, and get ready for a feast.
Step 7: Serve
Dish out your hot Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet onto plates or straight into bowls. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and green onions if you like, and don’t forget a drizzle of hot sauce for the spice lovers at your table!
How to Serve Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
Garnishes
Top your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and green onions for a hit of color and a fresh, punchy crunch. If you love that extra Southern heat, pass around the hot sauce—Tabasco, Louisiana, or your favorite brand all do the trick.
Side Dishes
This skillet is hearty and satisfying all on its own, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Try a crisp green salad dressed with a bright vinaigrette, a helping of sweet cornbread, or a side of garlicky sautéed greens. Everything comes together to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet into a showstopper by serving it straight from the skillet family-style, or scoop portions into colorful bell pepper halves for a fun individual touch. It’s also fantastic tucked inside tortillas for a Southern-inspired wrap or spooned over baked potatoes for an extra-comforting twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, and the flavors even seem to get better overnight, making it a perfect meal prep option.
Freezing
This recipe freezes like a dream! Pack cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers (be sure to remove as much air as possible), and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready for a quick and cozy meal, just thaw and heat—dinner is as easy as ever.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it looks a little dry. The microwave works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring between each, to keep the rice moist and fluffy.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
You definitely can! Just be aware that brown rice takes longer to cook and may need a bit more liquid. Give it another 15 to 20 minutes and check for doneness.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand?
You can make your own with some paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, oregano, cayenne, and a bit of salt and pepper. Adjust quantities to taste and you’ll be amazed how close you can get to that authentic flavor.
Is Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet very spicy?
It depends on your Cajun seasoning! Some are mild, some pack more heat. If you prefer a milder dish, start with less seasoning and add more at the end to fit your heat preference.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely—this recipe is easy to customize. Try adding celery, diced tomatoes, or even peas for extra variety, texture, and nutrition.
What sausage works best in this recipe?
Andouille is the traditional choice with its signature smoky, spicy flavor. If you prefer something milder, kielbasa or smoked turkey sausage are tasty alternatives.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a fast and soul-satisfying dinner that never fails to impress, give Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet a try. With its incredible flavor, easy method, and just one pan to wash, it’s destined to become a staple in your home as it is in mine. Can’t wait for you to dig in and enjoy every bite!
Print
Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 Servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal featuring smoked sausage, bell peppers, and Cajun seasoning, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Smoked Sausage:
12 oz Andouille or Kielbasa, sliced into ½-inch rounds
Rice:
1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
Bell Peppers:
1 red, diced; 1 green, diced
Onion:
1 medium yellow or white, diced
Garlic:
3 cloves, minced
Chicken Broth:
1 ½ cups
Cajun Seasoning:
2 tbsp store-bought or homemade
Olive Oil:
1 tbsp
Salt and Pepper:
to taste
Fresh Parsley:
optional, for garnish
Green Onions:
optional, for garnish
Hot Sauce:
optional, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients Slice the sausage, dice bell peppers and onion, mince garlic, rinse rice.
- Cook the Sausage Brown sausage in a skillet, set aside.
- Sauté the Veggies Cook onion, bell peppers, and garlic.
- Toast the Rice Toast rice with veggies in oil.
- Cook the Rice Add broth and Cajun seasoning, simmer until rice is tender.
- Combine and Finish Add sausage back, cook to meld flavors.
- Serve Garnish with parsley, green onions, and hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying, Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
