Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet: A One-Pan Flavor Explosion
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder packed with bold, smoky flavors and a kick of Cajun spice. With juicy smoked sausage, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly seasoned rice, this dish is both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a weeknight meal or meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
- Smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa for a deep, smoky flavor)
- Long-grain white rice (absorbs the Cajun spices beautifully)
- Bell peppers (a mix of red and green for sweetness and crunch)
- Onion (yellow or white for a caramelized depth)
- Garlic (fresh and aromatic to enhance the dish)
- Cajun seasoning (a flavorful blend of paprika, cayenne, thyme, and garlic powder)
- Chicken broth (adds moisture and infuses the rice with rich flavor)
- Olive oil (for sautéing and enhancing flavors)
- Optional garnishes: fresh parsley, green onions, or a splash of hot sauce
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Slice the smoked sausage into rounds and dice the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned and crispy, then set aside.
- Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Toast the Rice: Stir in the rinsed rice, coating it in the oil and letting it toast for 2 minutes.
- Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the chicken broth and Cajun seasoning, stirring well. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
- Bring It All Together: Return the sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let cook for another 3-5 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with parsley, green onions, or a dash of hot sauce for extra zest.
Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: Reduce the Cajun seasoning for a milder dish.
- Protein Swap: Substitute sausage with shrimp or chicken for variety.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.