Quick Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

Easy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe for Tasty Family Meals

Crafting a delectable Cajun sausage and rice skillet promises a culinary adventure that’ll spark excitement in your kitchen.

Spicy andouille sausage brings bold flavors to this one-pan marvel.

Louisiana-inspired seasonings dance across tender rice and succulent meat, creating a symphony of taste.

Hearty ingredients meld together seamlessly, promising comfort in every single bite.

Weeknight dinners rarely feel this impressive or effortless.

Home cooks appreciate simple yet bold recipes that deliver maximum satisfaction with minimal cleanup.

You’ll savor each forkful of this zesty, satisfying meal that celebrates robust southern cooking traditions.

Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary dining experience.

Ingredients for Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet

Protein:
  • Sausage: Spicy and flavorful meat that adds rich depth to the dish.
Vegetables:
  • Onion, Bell Pepper: Fresh vegetables that provide aromatic base and texture.
  • Garlic: Adds intense, pungent flavor to the skillet dish.
  • Green Onions: Fresh garnish that brings a mild, crisp finish.
Seasoning and Liquid Components:
  • Olive Oil: Cooking fat that helps sautĂ© ingredients and prevent sticking.
  • Cajun Seasoning: Signature spice blend that gives the dish its bold, zesty character.
  • Paprika: Adds warm, slightly sweet pepper flavor and rich color.
  • Oregano: Herb that contributes earthy and slightly bitter undertones.
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance overall taste.
  • Chicken Broth: Liquid base that helps cook rice and infuse additional flavor.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Provides moisture, slight acidity, and additional depth to the dish.
Rice:
  • Rice: Hearty grain that serves as the main starch and absorbs all the delicious flavors.

Stepwise Cajun Sausage & Rice Skillet

Stepwise Cajun Sausage & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sizzle The Sausage

Brown sliced sausage in a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat until golden and crispy. Transfer the sausage to a separate plate, keeping those delicious juices behind.

Step 2: Awaken The Vegetables

Toss diced onions and bell peppers into the same skillet. Saute until the vegetables become soft and slightly translucent, releasing their sweet aroma.

Step 3: Unleash The Flavor Bomb

Sprinkle in these zesty ingredients:
  • Minced garlic
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Paprika
  • Oregano
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Stir and cook for one minute to activate the spices and create an incredible fragrance.

Step 4: Build The Base

Add these ingredients to the skillet:
  • Rice
  • Chicken broth
  • Diced tomatoes with juice

Mix everything thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

Step 5: Simmer And Steam

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes until the rice becomes perfectly tender.

Step 6: Reunite The Sausage

Return the browned sausage back to the skillet. Stir and let everything mingle together for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to merge.

Step 7: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions on top. Serve immediately while piping hot and enjoy the Cajun magic!

Tips for Flavorful Cajun Sausage Skillet

  • Choose andouille or smoked sausage for authentic Cajun flavor and extra depth.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning based on spice preference, starting with less and adding gradually.
  • Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffy texture.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent over-seasoning.
  • Fresh ingredients like green onions add brightness and enhance overall dish presentation.

Flavorful Swaps for Cajun Sausage Skillet

  • Seafood Spice Skillet: Replace sausage with shrimp or crawfish, use seafood stock instead of chicken broth for an authentic Louisiana-style seafood rice dish.
  • Vegetarian Protein Powerhouse: Swap sausage with plant-based sausage or extra firm tofu, use vegetable broth and add black beans for protein and texture.
  • Gluten-Free Comfort Bowl: Use certified gluten-free rice, confirm Cajun seasoning is gluten-free, and substitute sausage with gluten-free andouille or chicken sausage.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Swap: Replace rice with riced cauliflower, keep all other seasonings and ingredients the same for a lower-carbohydrate version of the classic skillet meal.

What Complements Cajun Sausage Rice Skillet

  • Spicy Weeknight Feast: Serve this hearty Cajun sausage and rice skillet as a complete one-pan meal that satisfies hunger and craves bold flavors.
  • Family-Style Comfort Bowl: Ladle the sausage rice mixture into large, deep bowls and top with extra green onions for a rustic, homey presentation that feels warm and inviting.
  • Fiery Lunch Delight: Pack leftovers in meal prep containers for a zesty lunch that reheats perfectly and delivers a punch of Cajun-inspired taste at work or school.
  • Gathering Centerpiece: Bring the skillet directly to the table and let everyone serve themselves, creating a casual and interactive dining experience that sparks conversation.

Storage Guidelines for Cajun Sausage Skillet

  • Refrigerate leftover Cajun sausage and rice skillet in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, keeping the dish sealed tightly to maintain moisture and flavor.
  • Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers or freezer bags for maximum 2-3 months, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
  • Thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure even temperature distribution.

FAQs

  • What is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend of herbs and spices typically including paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, oregano, cayenne, and salt, which gives dishes a distinctive Louisiana-style flavor and heat.

  • Can I use a different type of sausage?

Yes, you can substitute andouille sausage with kielbasa, smoked sausage, or chorizo depending on your preference and what’s available in your local store.

  • How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning brand you use. Some are mild, while others are quite hot. You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of seasoning or choosing a mild version.

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Packed with Flavor

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Packed with Flavor
  • Spice Up Your Meal: Dive into a flavor-packed dish that brings the bold, zesty taste of Cajun cuisine right to your dinner table with minimal effort.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup with this single-skillet recipe that combines protein, rice, and vegetables in one delicious, streamlined meal.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Perfect for satisfying hungry family members with its hearty combination of sausage, rice, and vibrant seasonings that appeal to both kids and adults.
  • Quick Weeknight Solution: Prepare a restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy home cooks looking for a tasty and convenient dinner.
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Quick Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe

Quick Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.9 from 15 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Hearty Cajun sausage and rice skillet delivers robust Southern flavors with smoky andouille sausage and tender rice. Spicy ingredients blend seamlessly, creating a comforting meal you’ll savor with gusto.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 1 pound (453 grams) smoked sausage, sliced

Rice and Base:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 1 12 cups (354 milliliters) chicken broth

Vegetables and Seasonings:

  • 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Sear andouille sausage in a hot skillet until caramelized and golden brown, then transfer to a plate.
  2. In the same skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers over medium heat until they become translucent and slightly softened.
  3. Introduce minced garlic and spice blend, stirring continuously to prevent burning and allow aromatics to release their intense flavors.
  4. Pour in uncooked rice, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes, mixing thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
  5. Increase heat to high, bringing the liquid to a rapid boil, then immediately reduce temperature to low and cover the skillet.
  6. Allow the rice to steam and absorb liquid for approximately 18-20 minutes, maintaining a gentle simmer without lifting the lid.
  7. Once rice reaches a tender consistency, gently fold the reserved sausage back into the skillet, warming through for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  8. Sprinkle freshly chopped green onions across the surface for a vibrant, zesty finish before serving immediately.

Notes

  • Select spicy or mild Andouille sausage depending on heat preference and flavor intensity.
  • Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch and achieve fluffier texture.
  • Toast rice briefly in skillet before adding liquid to enhance nutty, rich flavor profile.
  • Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and customize seasoning precisely.
  • Swap regular rice with cauliflower rice for low-carb, gluten-free alternative that maintains similar texture.
  • Fresh tomatoes work wonderfully if canned aren’t available, providing brighter, lighter taste.
  • Substitute protein with chicken, shrimp, or plant-based sausage for versatile meal options.
  • Ensure Cajun seasoning is evenly distributed by stirring thoroughly during cooking process.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 400 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 900 mg
  • Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Jack Monroe

Jack Monroe

Founder & Recipe Innovator

Expertise

Pacific Northwest cuisine, Single-serving recipe development, Sustainable sourcing and cooking, Modern comfort food​

Education

Brightwater
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Sustainable cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food systems education


Jack grew up with a fishing rod in one hand and a cast-iron skillet in the other. After graduating from Brightwater: A Center for the Study of Food, he set out to prove that cooking for one could still taste like a feast.
Jack believes that food should feel real: fresh, fearless, and a little wild, just like the rivers he grew up around. For Jack, every single dish is a small adventure, and the best ones are the ones you can cook with heart, not hassle.

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