Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a vibrant, one-pan dish that packs in bold flavors with minimal effort. The smoky sausage, seasoned with Cajun spices, is perfectly balanced with tender rice and sautéed vegetables, making it a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s simple to prepare and combines rich, savory tastes in every bite. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or even for meal prepping in advance. Plus, the convenience of one pan means easy cleanup!

Ingredients

1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
1 cup long-grain rice
1 onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon thyme
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to lightly toast.
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for about 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, check the rice. If needed, add a bit more broth or water and continue cooking until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Once the rice is cooked, return the browned sausage to the skillet, stirring it into the rice mixture. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more Cajun seasoning, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6 servings
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

Protein Swap: You can use chicken sausage, andouille sausage, or even shrimp for a different protein.
Vegetarian Version: Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or additional veggies like zucchini or mushrooms for a hearty meatless meal.
Spiciness: Adjust the level of heat by adding more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.
Rice Type: If you prefer brown rice, it can be used, but the cooking time will be longer. Make sure to adjust the liquid accordingly.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, add a little chicken broth or water to the skillet and heat on medium-low until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings with a splash of broth to keep the rice moist.

FAQs

1. Can I use white rice instead of long-grain rice?

Yes, you can use white rice, but be mindful of the cooking time. White rice will cook faster than long-grain rice.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients.

3. Can I use fresh sausage instead of smoked sausage?

Yes, fresh sausage can be used, but you will need to cook it thoroughly before adding the other ingredients to the skillet.

4. Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare this meal ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits.

5. What can I serve with Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet?

This dish pairs well with a side of steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or cornbread for a comforting meal.

6. How do I adjust the flavor if it’s too spicy?

If the dish is too spicy, try adding a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime to balance out the heat.

7. Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Make sure to store it in an airtight container for the best results.

8. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, you can use other types of rice, like basmati or jasmine, though the cooking times may vary.

9. How can I make the dish less salty?

To reduce the salt, use low-sodium chicken broth and be mindful of the amount of salt added at the end.

10. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like celery, carrots, or even spinach for added nutrients and flavor.

Conclusion

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a fantastic, one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and easy to prepare. With its smoky sausage, savory seasonings, and tender rice, this dish is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Plus, with endless variations and storage options, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed for days to come. Whether you stick to the classic version or make it your own, this skillet meal is bound to satisfy your taste buds