Introduction
If you’re craving a bold, comforting, and easy to make dinner, look no further than Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet. This hearty, one pan dish is packed with smoky sausage, tender rice, and vibrant Cajun spices that deliver a kick of Southern inspired flavor. Not only is it a satisfying family friendly meal, but it’s also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients for Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
To make a delicious Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet, you’ll need simple pantry staples combined with bold Cajun spices. Here’s everything you need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage Andouille sausage is traditional for its smoky, spicy flavor, but you can also use kielbasa or any smoked sausage.
- 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice Long-grain rice holds up best and remains fluffy. You can substitute with brown rice (adjusting the cooking time).
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing the sausage and vegetables.
- 1 small onion, diced Yellow or white onion for sweetness and depth.
- 1 bell pepper, diced Use any color for a pop of color and mild sweetness (red, green, or yellow).
- 2 celery stalks, diced Adds a classic Louisiana “holy trinity” flavor along with onion and bell pepper.
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced Fresh garlic enhances the savory profile.
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth Use low-sodium broth for better control over the saltiness.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes Drained or with juices, depending on how saucy you want the skillet.
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning Store-bought works well, or you can make your own (see homemade blend below).
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika Enhances the smoky depth.
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) For extra heat, adjust to your spice preference.
- Salt and black pepper to taste Adjust seasonings as needed.
- 2 green onions, sliced For garnish and a fresh bite.
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup frozen peas or corn Stir in for extra texture and sweetness.
- Shredded cheese Sprinkle on top before serving for a creamy finish.
- Hot sauce Serve on the side for extra spice.
Homemade Cajun Seasoning (Optional):
If you want to make your own Cajun seasoning, combine the following:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
This one-pan wonder is easy to prepare with just a few simple steps. Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect result every time.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Slice the smoked sausage into ¼-inch rounds.
- Dice the onion, bell pepper, and celery.
- Mince the garlic.
- Measure out the spices, rice, and broth for easy access while cooking.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the edges are browned and crispy.
- Once browned, remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet (with the flavorful drippings), add the onion, bell pepper, and celery.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
- Return the browned sausage to the skillet.
- Add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to coat everything in the spices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices if you want a saucier texture).
- Stir in the uncooked rice, making sure it’s evenly distributed and submerged.
Step 5: Cook the Rice
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Avoid stirring during this time to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
Step 6: Fluff and Finish
- After 25 minutes, check that the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Turn off the heat and let the skillet sit covered for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice gently with a fork.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, bright finish.
- Serve hot, with hot sauce on the side if you love extra heat.
Would you like to proceed with Variations and Additions next?
Variations and Additions
One of the best things about Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is how versatile it is. You can easily customize the dish to suit your taste preferences or work with what you have in your kitchen. Here are some delicious variations and additions to consider:
Protein Variations
- Chicken and Sausage: Add diced chicken breast or thighs along with the sausage for a protein-packed twist. Ensure the chicken is cooked through before adding the rice.
- Shrimp and Sausage: For a seafood flair, stir in peeled and deveined shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Let them simmer until pink and cooked through.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the sausage and add black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a plant based version.
Vegetable Additions
- Zucchini or Squash: Stir in diced zucchini or squash during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added freshness.
- Spinach or Kale: Fold in a handful of fresh spinach or kale after cooking and let it wilt from the residual heat.
- Mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions for an earthy depth of flavor.
Spice and Flavor Adjustments
- Extra Spicy: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a few dashes of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
- Milder Flavor: Use a mild smoked sausage and reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning to tone down the spice.
- Smokier Taste: Add an extra ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of liquid smoke for a bolder, smokier finish.
Grain Alternatives
- Brown Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice but increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes.
- Quinoa: For a protein boost, replace rice with quinoa, cooking for about 20 minutes until the quinoa is fluffy.
- Cauliflower Rice: To make it low-carb, stir in pre cooked cauliflower rice in the last 5 minutes of simmering.
Tips for the Best Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
Creating the perfect Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is simple with a few expert tricks. Follow these tips to achieve the best texture and taste every time.
1. Use the Right Sausage
Opt for smoked sausage like Andouille for authentic Cajun flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, kielbasa or turkey sausage are great substitutes.
2. Sear the Sausage First
Browning the sausage adds a rich, caramelized flavor and prevents it from becoming rubbery. Always sear it before adding other ingredients.
3. Choose the Correct Rice
Long-grain white rice works best for this dish. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice as they can turn mushy. Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
4. Control the Spice Level
Adjust the Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to your heat preference. Taste as you go and remember you can always add more heat later.
5. Avoid Over Stirring
Once the rice is added, resist the urge to stir frequently. Stirring too much can release starch and make the dish sticky instead of fluffy.
6. Let It Rest
After cooking, allow the skillet to sit covered for 5 minutes. This helps the rice finish absorbing any remaining liquid and enhances the texture.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is excellent for meal prep and leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat it while maintaining its deliciousness.
Storing Leftovers
- Cool Completely: Let the skillet cool to room temperature before storing.
- Refrigerate: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Leftovers
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
- From Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, or reheat directly from frozen with a bit of extra liquid.
For food safety guidelines, visit USDA’s Safe Food Handling
FAQ
Can I make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat it on the stovetop or microwave when ready to serve.
What type of sausage is best for this recipe?
Andouille sausage is the most traditional for its bold, smoky, and spicy profile. If you prefer a milder option, kielbasa, chicken sausage, or smoked turkey sausage work well.
How can I make this dish less spicy?
To reduce the heat:
- Use a mild sausage like kielbasa.
- Cut back on Cajun seasoning and skip the cayenne pepper.
- Omit any hot sauce when serving.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes! Swap white rice for brown rice, but increase the cooking time to 35-40 minutes and add an extra ½ cup of broth.
What can I serve with Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with:
- Cornbread or garlic bread for a comforting side.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans.
- A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
For other sausage ideas, check out our guide to different sausage types
Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the sausage and vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-5 hours or until the rice is tender.
Conclusion
Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the ultimate comfort food hearty, flavorful, and easy to make in one pan. With bold Cajun spices, smoky sausage, and tender rice, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any night of the week. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite proteins and vegetables.
Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping for the week, or craving a taste of Louisiana, this dish delivers big on flavor and simplicity. Give this recipe a try, and bring the warmth of the South straight to your dinner table!
Looking for more easy, one-pot recipes? Check out our Skillet Recipe Collection