Zesty Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe for Cozy Nights

Cooking a hearty cajun sausage and rice skillet brings bold flavors right to your dinner table.

Spicy andouille sausage mingles with aromatic vegetables and fluffy rice in this one-pan wonder.

Southern comfort meets zesty culinary magic through carefully balanced seasonings.

Louisiana-inspired ingredients dance together, creating a meal that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Robust and quick, this recipe delivers maximum taste with minimal kitchen effort.

Peppers, onions, and smoky spices promise a delicious adventure waiting to unfold.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this mouthwatering dish.

FAQs

• What is Cajun seasoning?

A blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne that gives dishes a signature spicy, bold Louisiana flavor.

• Can I use different types of sausage?

Yes, andouille sausage is traditional, but you can substitute with smoked sausage, kielbasa, or chicken sausage for variety.

• Is this dish spicy?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. Use less or choose a mild blend if you prefer a milder taste, or add more cayenne for extra heat.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use brown rice instead of white, choose lean chicken sausage, add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, and use low-sodium chicken broth.

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Maximize Flavor Explosion: Packed with bold Cajun spices and hearty ingredients that create a mouthwatering one-pan meal bursting with Southern-style taste.
• Conquer Quick Cooking: Prepare a complete dinner in less than 30 minutes with minimal kitchen cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals.
• Boost Family Appeal: Offers kid-friendly flavors and customizable ingredients that please both picky eaters and adventurous food lovers with its versatile recipe.
• Simplify Meal Prep: Requires just one skillet, basic pantry staples, and straightforward cooking techniques that make this dish accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients Needed for Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Smoked Sausage: A flavorful meat that adds rich, smoky taste to the skillet dish.
• Chicken Broth: A savory liquid that helps cook the rice and enhances the overall flavor.

• Onion, Bell Pepper: Provide a sweet and slightly crunchy base for the skillet.
• Garlic: Adds a pungent and aromatic depth to the recipe.
• Green Onions: A fresh, mild onion flavor for garnishing the final dish.
• Frozen Peas: Offer a pop of color and sweet, tender texture.

• Rice: The hearty grain that serves as the main starch in this skillet meal.
• Cajun Seasoning, Paprika, Black Pepper, Salt: Create a bold and spicy flavor profile.
• Thyme, Oregano: Herbal notes that complement the Cajun-style seasoning.
• Diced Tomatoes: Add moisture and a tangy, slightly acidic element to the dish.

• Olive Oil: Used to sauté ingredients and prevent sticking in the skillet.

How to Cook Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sizzle Sausage Slices

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Carefully place sliced sausage into the pan and cook until the edges turn golden brown and crispy.

Transfer the browned sausage to a separate plate and set aside.

Step 2: Soften Aromatic Vegetables

Using the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until they become tender and translucent.

Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to bloom and fill the kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Step 3: Toast Spicy Rice Blend

Introduce rice to the skillet and sprinkle in Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano.

Stir and toast the rice for approximately 1 minute, coating each grain with the vibrant spice mixture.

Step 4: Simmer and Combine Liquids

Pour chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices into the skillet.

Stir gently to combine all ingredients and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Create One-Pot Magic

Return the browned sausage to the skillet.

Cover and reduce heat to low. Allow the dish to cook for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice becomes perfectly tender and absorbs all the flavorful liquid.

Step 6: Add Green Brightness

If desired, fold in frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This adds a pop of color and subtle sweetness to the dish.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions over the top for a bright, fresh finish.

Serve the Cajun sausage and rice skillet piping hot, directly from the pan.

Helpful Notes on Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Swap smoked sausage with chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner protein option that keeps the dish light and healthy.
• Select long-grain white rice for the best texture, ensuring each grain remains separate and fluffy after cooking.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity based on your spice tolerance by gradually adding more or using a mild blend for sensitive palates.
• Let the skillet rest for 5 minutes after cooking to allow rice to absorb remaining moisture and enhance overall flavor profile.
• Sprinkle fresh parsley instead of green onions for a bright, herbaceous touch that complements the robust Cajun spices.

Flavor Twists for Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Vegetarian Spice Delight: Replace sausage with plant-based sausage or firm tofu, using smoked paprika for depth and adding extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
• Seafood Cajun Remix: Swap sausage with shrimp or andouille seafood, maintaining the same spice profile and cooking method for a coastal-inspired meal.
• Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice, keeping Cajun seasoning and protein intact for a lighter, keto-friendly version.
• Gluten-Free One-Pot Wonder: Ensure all ingredients are gluten-free certified, using tamari instead of traditional soy sauce and checking seasoning blend for potential gluten contamination.

Side Dishes to Serve with Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Spicy Family Feast: Create a festive dinner spread by serving this sizzling skillet alongside cornbread and a crisp green salad for a complete Southern-style meal.
• Weekend Game Day Delight: Transform the dish into a crowd-pleasing appetizer by scooping portions into small serving cups or alongside tortilla chips for an easy party snack.
• Quick Lunch Makeover: Pack leftovers in a thermal container for a hearty work or school lunch, adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs to refresh the flavors when reheating.
• Protein Power Bowl: Top the skillet with a fried egg and extra green onions for a protein-packed lunch that keeps you energized throughout the afternoon.

Storing Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the skillet dish sealed tightly to maintain moisture and prevent contamination.
• Separate rice and sausage into individual portions for easier reheating and storage.
• Cool the dish completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.

Quick Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

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4.8 from 25 reviews

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

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Description

Hearty Cajun sausage and rice skillet delivers robust Louisiana flavors with spicy andouille sausage, bell peppers, and aromatic rice. Families will savor this one-pan meal that brings Creole comfort directly to dinner tables.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) smoked sausage, sliced

Vegetables:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped

Base and Liquid Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 ounces/410 grams) diced tomatoes

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

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Instructions

1. Sear sliced sausage in a heated skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown and caramelized, about 3-4 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
2. In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and bell peppers until they become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, releasing its aromatic essence.
4. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, salt, thyme, and oregano over the vegetables, stirring to distribute the spices evenly.
5. Introduce rice to the skillet, toasting it for 1 minute to enhance its nutty flavor.
6. Pour chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices into the skillet, creating a flavorful liquid base.
7. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low.
8. Return seared sausage to the skillet, nestling it into the rice mixture.
9. Cover and allow to cook for 15-17 minutes, or until rice becomes tender and absorbs most of the liquid.
10. Stir in frozen peas during the last 2 minutes of cooking for added color and texture.
11. Remove from heat, let rest for 3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
12. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Customize the Cajun seasoning intensity by adding more or less to suit personal heat tolerance.
• Easily substitute sausage with chicken, shrimp, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
• Use long-grain white rice for traditional texture, or try brown rice for added nutritional value and nutty flavor.
• This skillet method minimizes cleanup and maximizes flavor infusion through sequential cooking techniques.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 425 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 1150 mg
• Fat: 21 g
• Saturated Fat: 6 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 45 mg