Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet: A One-Pan Southern Classic

ByEmma

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal with a kick of spice, look no further than this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet. This dish brings together smoky sausage, vibrant vegetables, and perfectly seasoned rice in a single pan, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.​

Contents

🛒 Ingredients

  • 14 oz Andouille sausage, sliced into ¼–½ inch rounds
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Sliced green onions, for garnish (optional)

Pro Tip: If Andouille sausage isn’t available, substitute with any smoked sausage like kielbasa or chorizo to maintain that rich, smoky flavor.​

🍳 Instructions

1. Sauté the Sausage

In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Don’t worry if bits stick to the bottom; these will add depth to the dish later.​

2. Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.​

3. Incorporate Spices

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the sausage and vegetables, cooking for about 1 minute to toast the spices.​

4. Add Rice and Liquids

Pour in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.​

5. Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.​

6. Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!​

🔄 Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or okra.
  • Seafood Twist: Add shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a Cajun seafood version.
  • Cheesy Delight: Stir in shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese before serving for a creamy texture.​

🧊 Storage Tips

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent drying out.​

🌶️ Final Thoughts

This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of bold flavors and comforting textures. Whether you’re new to Cajun cuisine or a seasoned fan, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So grab your skillet and bring a taste of the South to your kitchen tonight!​

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