Some meals bring comfort, bold flavors, and easy preparation together in one perfect dish. Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is one of those recipes! Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for the whole family, this dish is the answer. The smoky, spicy kick from Cajun-seasoned sausage, combined with fluffy rice and colorful vegetables, makes it an instant favorite.

Cooking in one skillet means fewer dishes, less cleanup, and all the flavors blending beautifully as they cook together. Whether you’re a fan of bold Louisiana flavors or just looking for a delicious, easy-to-make dish, this Cajun-inspired meal is sure to please.

Why You’ll Love Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• One-pan meal – Less mess, less stress!
• Bold Cajun flavors – Smoky sausage, garlic, and spices create an explosion of taste.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Customizable – Add your favorite veggies or swap out the protein for variety.
• Great for meal prep – Makes excellent leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Ingredients for Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Ingredient	Quantity
Smoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa)	12 oz, sliced
Olive oil	1 tablespoon
Onion (chopped)	1 small
Bell peppers (red and green, diced)	1 cup
Garlic (minced)	2 cloves
Long-grain white rice	1 cup
Chicken broth	2 cups
Diced tomatoes (canned, with juices)	1 can (14.5 oz)
Cajun seasoning	1 tablespoon
Paprika	1 teaspoon
Dried thyme	½ teaspoon
Salt	½ teaspoon
Black pepper	¼ teaspoon
Green onions (chopped)	¼ cup (for garnish)
Fresh parsley (chopped)	2 tablespoons (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, until browned.
3. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add chopped onions and diced bell peppers.
2. Sauté for about 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
3. Add minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Rice and Seasonings

1. Stir in the uncooked rice and let it toast for about 1 minute.
2. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix well to coat the rice with the seasonings.

Step 4: Simmer Everything Together

1. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices.
2. Stir well and bring the mixture to a light boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Step 5: Add the Sausage Back

1. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir it into the rice mixture.
2. Let it cook for another 3 minutes to absorb flavors.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.
2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	420 kcal
Carbohydrates	50g
Protein	18g
Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	5g
Sodium	850mg

Expert Tips for the Best Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

1. Use the right sausage – Andouille sausage gives the best smoky, spicy flavor, but Kielbasa works well too.
2. Toast the rice – Cooking the rice for a minute before adding liquid enhances its nutty flavor.
3. Don’t skip the Cajun seasoning – It’s the key to achieving authentic Louisiana flavor.
4. Let it rest before serving – Giving the dish 5 minutes off the heat helps flavors meld together.
5. Adjust the spice level – If you like it extra spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Variation

1. Make It Low-Carb

• Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice. Reduce the chicken broth to 1 cup.

2. Add More Protein

• Stir in cooked shrimp or shredded chicken for extra protein.

3. Vegetarian Version

• Replace sausage with smoked tofu or plant-based sausage alternatives.

4. Creamy Cajun Skillet

• Stir in ½ cup heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.

5. Cheesy Cajun Skillet

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice works, but it takes longer to cook—about 35-40 minutes. You may need extra broth.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.

3. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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

It pairs well with cornbread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables.

5. How do I make it even spicier?

Add extra Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce.

6. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 4-5 hours.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Now that you have this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe, it’s time to bring bold flavors to your kitchen! Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

Try it today and let us know how it turned out!

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