Save This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet brings the spirit of Louisiana straight to your table with just one pan and a handful of simple ingredients. A weeknight hero, it is both easy and comforting while packing plenty of smoky spice and tender vegetables. Whenever I make this, the whole house fills with a mouthwatering aroma that gets everyone to the table fast.
I tried this skillet meal to revive family dinners after a busy week and it instantly became our new favorite. Even picky eaters devour every bite, especially when I let them sprinkle the parsley on top.
Ingredients
- Smoked sausage sliced: brings a deep savory bite and a little heat Try to pick a well seasoned Andouille if you can
- Onion diced: gives a sweet base flavor Choose one that feels firm with no soft spots
- Red bell pepper diced: adds brightness and a touch of sweetness
- Green bell pepper diced: offers traditional Cajun color and balance
- Celery diced: delivers subtle aromatic flavor and a bit of crunch
- Garlic minced: wakes up all the flavors Choose fresh cloves for best results
- Long grain white rice rinsed: ensures fluffy texture Use a quality brand for consistency
- Low sodium chicken broth: helps the rice cook tender and adds richness Go for a brand with simple ingredients
- Canned diced tomatoes drained: offers juiciness and a fresh tang Try to use fire roasted tomatoes if available
- Cajun seasoning: the backbone of boldness Homemade lets you adjust spice or use a trusted store brand
- Smoked paprika: builds smoky layers Spanish paprika offers a great touch
- Dried thyme: brings herbal warmth A little goes a long way
- Dried oregano: adds bright earthiness Choose high quality dried leaves
- Salt: seasons everything evenly Taste partway and adjust as needed
- Black pepper: provides gentle heat Always use fresh ground if possible
- Cayenne pepper optional: brings extra fire Only use if you love it spicy
- Olive oil: for sautéing Any good extra virgin will work
- Fresh parsley chopped for garnish: Brightens and freshens at the end
- Spring onions sliced for garnish: give a crisp bite and pretty finish Choose ones with bright green tops
Instructions
- Prep and Brown the Sausage:
- Slice your sausage into even rounds Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium high Add sausage and let each side brown deeply turning only when a golden crust develops about four minutes Remove browned sausage to a plate but keep the flavorful oil
- Soften the Vegetables:
- Using the same pan add diced onion red bell pepper green bell pepper and celery Stir well so veggies pick up all sausage flavor Cook over medium heat stirring every minute until they become soft and fragrant after four to five minutes
- Bloom the Garlic:
- Sprinkle in the minced garlic Stir constantly for one minute The fragrance will intensify quickly but do not let the garlic burn
- Toast the Rice:
- Add rinsed rice straight into the softened vegetables Stir well Toast the rice for one minute which brings out its natural flavor Elevate the aroma by gently moving rice so it touches the hot pan surface
- Combine with Liquids and Spices:
- Pour in drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth Add all Cajun seasoning smoked paprika dried thyme dried oregano salt black pepper and cayenne if using Stir so everything is evenly distributed Let the colors come together and fill the skillet
- Simmer Everything with the Sausage:
- Return your browned sausage and all its resting juices to the pan Stir again to combine Bring the mixture up to a gentle simmer
- Steam Until Rice is Tender:
- Lower the heat to the absolute lowest and cover tightly Let it cook for eighteen to twenty minutes Stir once after ten minutes to check for sticking The rice should absorb nearly all the liquid and become soft but not mushy
- Finish and Rest:
- Turn off the heat but leave the skillet covered Let everything sit for five minutes This resting time allows the rice to finish steaming and soak up any remaining flavors
- Fluff and Garnish:
- Uncover and fluff the rice gently with a fork Top generously with chopped parsley and a few spoonfuls of spring onion Serve right away
Save The way Andouille sausage flavors the other ingredients is always my favorite part With each scoop I remember a summer weekend when my uncle added a surprise dash of extra paprika and we all went back for seconds That smoky scent always reminds me of him
Storage Tips
Cool any leftovers thoroughly before storing Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days This dish reheats beautifully and the flavors deepen with time making tomorrow’s lunch even better If you have lots left you can freeze portions for a rainy day Simply thaw overnight in the fridge then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave adding a splash of broth if it looks a little dry
Ingredient Substitutions
If you want to lighten things up try swapping smoked sausage for turkey or chicken sausage For a vegetarian version use plant based sausage and vegetable broth Feel free to sub brown rice just extend the cooking time and add a bit more broth For extra variety you can add okra peas or even corn
Serving Suggestions
This hearty skillet is a meal on its own but tastes fantastic with a simple green salad or roasted okra on the side For a larger gathering set out bottles of hot sauce sliced lemons and extra parsley so everyone can build their perfect bowl If you love crunch try a cornbread wedge alongside
Cultural and Historical Context
Cajun cooking hails from French Acadian settlers in Louisiana where rice sausage and fresh vegetables were common pantry finds This skillet is inspired by rustic Creole classics like jambalaya and brings those family friendly flavors to your kitchen No matter the background every Cajun cook has their own spice blend and favorite touches which makes this such a warm adaptable meal
Seasonal Adaptations
In summer swap the bell peppers for whatever looks freshest at the market Zucchini and cherry tomatoes are unbeatable In winter try adding a handful of kale or spinach in the final minutes For spring a little green asparagus makes a bright addition
Save This recipe will bring smiles to your dinner table and it’s as welcoming for a weeknight as for a festive gathering. Enjoy every savory bite!
Recipe FAQs
- → What sausage works best for this skillet?
Smoked Andouille or kielbasa gives the richest flavor, but turkey or chicken sausage are great lighter alternatives.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Brown rice will work, but allow for a longer cooking time and add extra broth if needed for absorption.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning and cayenne to suit your taste, or add hot sauce at table-side.
- → Are there vegetable substitutions?
Try okra, corn, or extra bell peppers. These add flavor and texture while keeping the dish colorful.
- → Is it suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, provided you use gluten-free sausage and seasonings. Always check product labels to be sure.
- → Can I prepare this dish ahead?
This skillet keeps well. Store leftovers tightly covered in the fridge for up to three days.