If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful one-pan meal that packs a punch, the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish masterfully combines smoky Andouille sausage with aromatic spices, tender bell peppers, and perfectly cooked rice, all mingling together in a hearty skillet meal that’s as vibrant in color as it is in taste. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that work harmoniously to create layers of delicious flavor and pleasing textures. Each component plays its part to build that classic Cajun flair—from the smoky sausage to the bright bell pepper and the fragrant spices that tie everything together.
- 14 oz. Andouille sausage: This sausage brings a signature smoky and spicy kick that’s essential to authentic Cajun flavor.
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil: Helps achieve a beautiful brown sear on the sausage, building flavor right from the start.
- 1 bell pepper, diced: Adds crunch, sweetness, and vibrant color to the skillet.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Infuses a mild smokiness that deepens the sausage’s flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano: Brings a subtle earthiness that balances the heat and acidity.
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme: Lends a fragrant herbal note reminiscent of Southern cooking.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory depth with mellow garlic flavor.
- 1/4 tsp onion powder: Adds sweetness and complexity without overpowering.
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper: Provides a gentle, warming heat that wakes up the palate.
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper: Adds a fresh peppery bite for balance.
- 1 (15 oz.) can fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices): Brings smoky acidity and juiciness that keeps the rice flavorful and moist.
- 1 cup long grain white rice: Acts as the base, soaking up all the rich flavors beautifully.
- 1.5 cups chicken broth: Adds savory depth and moisture for cooking the rice perfectly.
- 2 green onions, sliced: Provide a fresh, crisp garnish with mild onion flavor.
How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Andouille Sausage
Start by slicing your Andouille sausage into ¼- to ½-inch thick pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, then add the sausage slices. Cook them until well browned. Don’t shy away from letting the sausage stick a bit to the bottom of the pan — those browned bits are pure flavor gold that will enrich your dish later.
Step 2: Sauté the Bell Pepper
While the sausage is browning, dice your bell pepper. Once the sausage has a nice crust, add the diced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté everything together for about one minute, just until the pepper begins to soften but still retains a little texture and its vibrant color.
Step 3: Add and Toast the Spices
Sprinkle in smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well to coat the sausage and peppers. Toasting the spices in the hot pan for a minute intensifies their flavors and fills your kitchen with an incredible aroma you’ll love.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes, Rice, and Broth
Pour in the fire roasted diced tomatoes along with their juices, the long grain white rice, and the chicken broth. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any browned bits nestled on the skillet’s bottom—that’s the secret to maximum flavorful impact in this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Place a lid on your skillet and turn the heat up to medium-high to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook covered for 20 minutes. Resist the urge to peek—the steam trapped under the lid is what cooks the rice perfectly fluffy.
Step 6: Rest and Finish
After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat but keep the lid on. Let it rest for 5 minutes; this allows the rice to finish absorbing the moisture and flavors without overcooking. Finally, lift the lid, stir gently to combine everything evenly, and sprinkle sliced green onions on top for a pop of freshness.
How to Serve Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly sliced green onions are a classic garnish that adds a crisp bite and lovely color contrast. If you want to amp things up further, consider a handful of chopped fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
Because this skillet is a satisfying all-in-one meal, light sides work best. A simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed greens like collard or kale complement the richness without overwhelming your palate. Cornbread or crusty French bread also pair wonderfully if you want something to sop up every last bit of sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cajun sausage and rice skillet straight from the pan for a rustic, homey vibe that feels like a warm hug. Alternatively, spoon it into individual bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for an extra indulgent twist, perfect for casual family dinners or friendly gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making your next meal just as delightful, if not better.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to revive the moisture and prevent the rice from drying out. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Andouille sausage is traditional for the smoky and spicy notes, but you can swap in smoked kielbasa, chorizo, or even a milder sausage according to your taste preferences.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or smoked tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep that savory depth.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. You might need to adjust the broth quantity and simmer time accordingly to get the perfect tenderness.
How spicy is this dish?
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe has a moderate heat level from the cayenne pepper and spicy sausage. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the cayenne. For more kick, sprinkle on extra crushed red pepper or hot sauce when serving.
What kind of pan works best for this recipe?
A deep skillet or a Dutch oven is ideal, as it provides enough space to brown the sausage and cook the rice without overcrowding. The heavy bottom also helps prevent scorching and distributes heat evenly.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe is a wonderful blend of bold flavors and comforting ingredients that come together effortlessly. It’s a flavorful invitation to enjoy the vibrant spices of Cajun cuisine in a simple, weeknight-friendly format. I hope you give this recipe a try and find it becoming a staple in your meal rotation as it has in mine!
Print
Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This flavorful Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe combines spicy Andouille sausage with aromatic spices, fire roasted tomatoes, and tender long grain white rice, all cooked together in one skillet for a hearty and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 14 oz. Andouille sausage, sliced into ¼–½ inch thick pieces
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 green onions, sliced
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
Pantry Items
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 (15 oz.) can fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: Slice the Andouille sausage into ¼-½ inch thick pieces. Add the sausage and 1 tablespoon of cooking oil to a deep skillet or Dutch oven. Sauté over medium heat until the sausage is well browned, allowing some browning to stick to the bottom of the skillet to deglaze later for added flavor.
- Add Bell Pepper: While the sausage is browning, dice the bell pepper. Once the sausage is browned, add the diced bell pepper to the skillet and continue sautéing for about one minute until the pepper begins to soften.
- Toast the Spices: Sprinkle smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and freshly cracked black pepper over the sausage and pepper mixture. Stir well and sauté for another minute to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
- Add Tomatoes, Rice, and Broth: Pour in the fire roasted diced tomatoes with their juices, long grain white rice, and chicken broth. Stir everything together thoroughly, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate that rich flavor.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and increase the heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a full boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes. Avoid opening the lid during this time to ensure the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavors.
- Rest and Finish: Remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, still covered, for an additional 5 minutes. After resting, remove the lid and gently fold the sausage and rice together to evenly distribute ingredients. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper to taste.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the sodium content.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- For a smoky flavor, use smoked Andouille sausage if available.
- If you prefer, substitute brown rice but increase the simmering time accordingly.
