Skillet dinners are the best for busy nights, and this Cajun sausage and rice skillet is a perfect example. It’s full of smoky sausage, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice, all cooked together in one pan. The Cajun seasoning brings bold flavor, while the one-pan method keeps things simple with very little cleanup. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a filling, family-friendly dinner on the table that tastes like comfort food with a spicy kick.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cajun sausage and rice skillet is the kind of dish that quickly becomes a regular in your kitchen. It’s ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Since everything cooks in one skillet, cleanup is quick and easy. The smoky sausage, fluffy rice, and Cajun spices create a bold and satisfying flavor in every bite. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and filling, so the whole family will enjoy it without breaking the bank.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Cajun sausage and rice skillet, you only need a few simple ingredients:
- Smoked sausage (Andouille is best, but any smoked sausage works)
- Rice (long-grain white, jasmine, or basmati)
- Onion (diced)
- Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow for color)
- Garlic (fresh, minced)
- Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Chicken broth or stock
- Olive oil
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Cook the sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
- Add seasoning: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning over the veggies and stir well so the flavor coats everything.
- Toast the rice: Add uncooked rice to the skillet and stir for 1–2 minutes to give it extra flavor.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in chicken broth, stir, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover the skillet, and let it cook until the rice is tender (about 18–20 minutes).
- Finish the dish: Stir the sausage back into the rice, fluff everything with a fork, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving hot.
Tips for Success
- Brown the sausage well: Let the sausage get a nice golden color — it adds smoky flavor to the whole dish.
- Adjust the spice: If you like it mild, use less Cajun seasoning. For more heat, add extra or stir in a bit of hot sauce.
- Don’t rush the rice: Keep the skillet covered while the rice cooks so it comes out fluffy and soft.
- Use fresh veggies: Fresh onions and bell peppers give the best taste, but frozen can work in a pinch.
- Meal prep friendly: This dish reheats well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
Variations to Try
- Add shrimp or chicken: Mix in cooked shrimp or chicken pieces for extra protein.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or sprinkle shredded cheese at the end for a richer flavor.
- Healthier option: Use brown rice or even quinoa instead of white rice.
- Vegetarian version: Skip the sausage and add beans, mushrooms, or extra veggies.
- Extra spice: Add jalapeños, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce if you like it fiery.
Serving Suggestions
- With cornbread: A slice of warm cornbread on the side makes the meal extra comforting.
- Fresh salad: Pair it with a light green salad or coleslaw to balance the rich flavors.
- Add toppings: A squeeze of lemon, fresh parsley, or a drizzle of hot sauce takes it to the next level.
- Family style: Serve it straight from the skillet at the table for a cozy, homey feel.
- Leftovers: Pack into meal prep containers for quick lunches the next day.
