Looking for a fast, flavorful, and satisfying dinner recipe? This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect one-pan meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes! Made with smoked sausage, Cajun spices, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re a fan of Louisiana-style cooking, need a quick family dinner, or just love bold, smoky flavors, this recipe is a must-try!
Let’s dive into this easy Cajun rice and sausage recipe and make a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients for Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
To make this Cajun-style one-skillet meal, you’ll need:
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz smoked sausage (Andouille, Kielbasa, or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed for best texture)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion (yellow or white), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins & Substitutions
- Swap sausage for chicken, shrimp, or turkey sausage.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
- Add diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- For extra spice, include hot sauce, cayenne, or red pepper flakes.
How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice – Step-by-Step
This flavorful skillet recipe is incredibly simple. Follow these easy steps:
Step1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the smoked sausage into ½-inch rounds.
- Dice the bell peppers, onion, and mince the garlic.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Step2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
Step4: Toast the Rice
- Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat with oil and vegetables.
- Toast for about 2 minutes until the rice smells nutty and fragrant.
Step5: Cook the Rice
- Pour in the chicken broth, add Cajun seasoning, and stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Step6: Combine & Finish
- Once the rice is fully cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.
- Stir everything together and let it cook for 3-5 more minutes.
Step7: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with cornbread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables!
Pro Tips for the Best Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and deeper flavor.
- Rinse the rice to prevent stickiness and ensure fluffy grains.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- Don’t over-stir the rice while it’s cooking—this keeps it light and fluffy.
Serving Suggestions – What Goes with Cajun Sausage and Rice?
Pair this savory one-skillet meal with:
- Cornbread – The perfect slightly sweet contrast.
- Steamed Broccoli – Adds a crisp and healthy touch.
- Garlic Bread – Great for scooping up extra sauce!
- Coleslaw – A creamy, refreshing side.
Nutritional Information
Nutritional Info per Serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fats: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storage Tips
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating Instructions
- Microwave with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.
- Reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! It stores well and tastes even better the next day.
Can I freeze Cajun sausage and rice?
Yes, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Try turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or plant-based alternatives.
Related Recipes for Cajun Lovers
-
Beef and Cheese Chimichangas Recipe – Easy Dinner Idea
-
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Caesar Chicken – Easy Chicken Dinner Recipe
Final Thoughts – Why You’ll Love This Cajun Skillet Recipe
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a quick, easy, and flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for busy nights. With bold spices, hearty sausage, and fluffy rice, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite!
Try it tonight and let us know how you liked it in the comments! Don’t forget to share & pin this recipe!
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Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet – Best Dinner Recipe
Description
Looking for a fast, flavorful, and satisfying dinner recipe? This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect one-pan meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes! Made with smoked sausage, Cajun spices, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights.
Whether you’re a fan of Louisiana-style cooking, need a quick family dinner, or just love bold, smoky flavors, this recipe is a must-try!
Let’s dive into this easy Cajun rice and sausage recipe and make a restaurant-quality dish at home.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz smoked sausage (Andouille, Kielbasa, or your favorite variety)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed for best texture)
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium onion (yellow or white), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Add-ins & Substitutions
- Swap sausage for chicken, shrimp, or turkey sausage.
- Use brown rice or quinoa for a healthier alternative.
- Add diced tomatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- For extra spice, include hot sauce, cayenne, or red pepper flakes.
Instructions
Step1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the smoked sausage into ½-inch rounds.
- Dice the bell peppers, onion, and mince the garlic.
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
Step2: Cook the Sausage
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the diced onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
- Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant.
Step4: Toast the Rice
- Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat with oil and vegetables.
- Toast for about 2 minutes until the rice smells nutty and fragrant.
Step5: Cook the Rice
- Pour in the chicken broth, add Cajun seasoning, and stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Step6: Combine & Finish
- Once the rice is fully cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.
- Stir everything together and let it cook for 3-5 more minutes.
Step7: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
- Serve hot with cornbread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables!
Equipment
Kids Chill Leak-Proof Lunch Box – Included Reusable Ice Pack Keeps Food Cold
Buy Now →Notes
- Use a cast-iron skillet for even cooking and deeper flavor.
- Rinse the rice to prevent stickiness and ensure fluffy grains.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
- Don’t over-stir the rice while it’s cooking—this keeps it light and fluffy.