Name: Cajun Sausage And Rice Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced; 1 small onion, diced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning; ½ tsp paprika; ¼ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp salt (adjust to taste); ½ tsp dried thyme; ½ tsp dried oregano; 1 cup frozen peas (optional); 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

There's nothing better than a one-pan meal that packs bold flavors with minimal effort. This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a hearty, spicy, and satisfying dish that comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.

I first discovered this dish while looking for a way to use up some smoked sausage and leftover rice. With a handful of pantry staples and a generous sprinkle of Cajun seasoning, it quickly became a family favorite. Now, it’s a go-to recipe whenever we need something quick, comforting, and packed with flavor.

Why You'll Love This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

First, it's incredibly quick and simple. With just one skillet and a handful of ingredients, you can have dinner on the table in half an hour. Less time cooking means more time to enjoy your meal (and fewer dishes to clean up!).

Second, it’s budget-friendly. Smoked sausage, rice, and veggies are all affordable ingredients that stretch well, making this an economical choice for families.

Third, the bold Cajun flavors take this dish to the next level. The smoky sausage, sautéed onions and peppers, and a perfectly seasoned rice base create a satisfying, slightly spicy bite every time.

Lastly, it’s versatile. You can customize it with different proteins, adjust the spice level to your liking, or toss in whatever vegetables you have on hand.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Smoked sausage is the star of the show. Whether you use andouille for extra spice or kielbasa for a milder flavor, the smoky richness adds depth to the dish.

Long-grain white rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and absorbs all the delicious flavors. If you prefer brown rice, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and crunch, balancing out the spice. I love using a mix of red and green bell peppers for extra color and flavor.

Cajun seasoning is what brings everything together. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

For the best texture, a heavy-bottomed skillet works wonders. A cast-iron or stainless steel pan will help achieve a nice sear on the sausage while evenly cooking the rice.

How To Make This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Creating this flavorful dish is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by slicing the smoked sausage into thin rounds. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Once hot, add the sausage slices and let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until browned. Flip and cook for another minute, then remove them from the skillet.

In the same skillet, sauté diced onions and bell peppers until they become soft and slightly caramelized. The natural sweetness of the veggies helps balance out the Cajun spices.

Next, add the garlic and Cajun seasoning, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. This step helps bloom the spices, enhancing their depth and complexity.

Pour in the uncooked rice and chicken broth, then return the sausage to the pan. Stir everything together, making sure the rice is fully submerged. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.

Once the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid, fluff it with a fork and give everything a good stir. Garnish with chopped green onions and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a pop of brightness.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet stores beautifully.

For refrigeration, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.

For freezing, portion the rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to restore moisture.

Microwave reheating works too—just cover the dish with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second increments until warm.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how adaptable it is!

Want to switch up the protein? Try shrimp, shredded chicken, or even ground turkey instead of sausage.

Need to make it vegetarian? Swap the sausage for black beans or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Like it extra spicy? Add diced jalapeños, an extra pinch of cayenne, or a few dashes of hot sauce for even more heat.

Prefer a cheesy twist? Stir in some shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese at the end for a creamy, indulgent finish.

However you make it, this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is sure to be a winner at your dinner table!