Name: Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp dried thyme; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

There's nothing quite like the bold flavors of a Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet to bring warmth and comfort to your dinner table. Smoky sausage, tender rice, and a medley of colorful bell peppers come together in one pan for a meal that's packed with spice and flavor.

I first discovered this recipe on a trip to Louisiana, where Cajun cuisine stole my heart. The rich, smoky flavors and effortless one-pan cooking made it a must-have in my weekly rotation. Now, every time I make it, I’m transported back to those lively streets filled with the scent of sizzling sausage and perfectly seasoned rice.

Why You'll Love This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with this easy and flavorful dish! Here’s why it deserves a spot in your meal plan:

First, it’s quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Everything comes together in about 30 minutes, with minimal prep work required.

It’s also budget-friendly—a handful of simple ingredients, like rice, sausage, and veggies, create a hearty meal without breaking the bank.

Another big plus? It’s a one-pan wonder. Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, which is always a win in my book.

Best of all, this dish is incredibly customizable. You can adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or use up whatever veggies you have in your fridge.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building the perfect Cajun taste.

Andouille sausage is the star of the show. Its smoky, spicy flavor gives the dish its signature kick. If you prefer a milder option, kielbasa or even smoked turkey sausage work well too.

Long-grain white rice is best for this dish, as it absorbs the Cajun seasoning beautifully without turning mushy. If using brown rice, note that the cooking time will be longer.

Bell peppers and onions add color, texture, and a natural sweetness that balances out the spice. Red, yellow, or green peppers all work—feel free to mix and match!

Cajun seasoning ties everything together. You can use store-bought seasoning or make your own with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme.

A can of diced tomatoes brings acidity and moisture, creating a rich, well-rounded flavor. If you prefer a drier dish, you can reduce the amount or skip it entirely.

You’ll also need a large skillet with a lid to ensure the rice cooks evenly without drying out.

How To Make This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Making this dish is as easy as it is delicious. Let’s walk through the steps.

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step releases all those delicious smoky flavors into the pan. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit of oil if needed, then toss in your chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté them until softened, about 5 minutes. The veggies will pick up all the flavorful bits left behind by the sausage.

Next, stir in the Cajun seasoning and garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step helps bloom the spices, enhancing their flavor.

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the uncooked rice. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is evenly coated in the seasonings and liquid.

Add the chicken broth, bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid.

Finally, return the cooked sausage to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let everything cook for another 2-3 minutes, just to warm through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot!

Storage Options

This dish stores beautifully, making it great for meal prep.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to get creative!

For a protein twist, swap the andouille sausage for shrimp, shredded chicken, or even tofu for a plant-based version.

Want extra veggies? Try adding celery, zucchini, or mushrooms to the mix for more texture and nutrients.

Adjust the heat level to your liking. If you love spice, throw in some sliced jalapeños or an extra dash of cayenne pepper. For a milder dish, use a reduced-spice Cajun seasoning blend.

Make it low-carb by substituting cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. Just reduce the cooking time, as cauliflower rice cooks much faster.

No Cajun seasoning on hand? Make your own with a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

No matter how you make it, this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is sure to become a household favorite. So grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a taste of the South—right from your own kitchen!