Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Few recipes pack so much hearty Southern comfort into one skillet as Cajun Sausage and Rice. This classic one pan meal brings together smoky sausage and tender rice with a deep base of sautéed peppers, onions, and the signature punch of Cajun seasonings. Whenever I want dinner filled with bold flavors and minimal fuss, this is my go to recipe.

I started making this on busy school nights when I needed something fast but hearty and my youngest now requests it for Sunday dinners too. It always fills up the whole family and leaves the kitchen smelling amazing.

Ingredients

• Cajun style smoked sausage: Brings smoky spicy depth Choose a brand with visible spices for the most authentic flavor
• Bell pepper yellow onion celery: These veggies make the Cajun holy trinity foundation for true Louisiana taste Look for firm veggies with glossy skins
• Chicken broth: Adds savory richness and helps cook the rice Use low sodium if you want to control salt
• Rice: Choose a quick cooking variety for a weeknight friendly meal
• Crushed tomatoes: Tie the whole dish together with a tangy saucy backdrop Look for fire roasted for extra flavor
• Chicken bouillon powder: Adds a boost of umami Look for a brand without added sugar
• Onion powder and garlic powder: Layered spices for rich aroma Pick powders that still have strong scent
• Cajun seasoning: Use your favorite blend and taste as you go Some are much hotter than others

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Vegetables:

Set out a large skillet on medium high heat Add a splash of olive oil and toss in chopped onions diced bell peppers and sliced celery Cook these together for about 3 to 4 minutes until they start to soften and the onions look a little translucent

Brown the Sausage:

Add sliced Cajun smoked sausage into the pan with the veggies Let everything cook together until the sausage starts to brown and crisp on the edges Use a spoon to remove any extra oil once the sausage is browned

Simmer Ingredients:

Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning chicken bouillon onion powder and garlic powder Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth and add your rice Stir well so the rice is evenly coated Keep the heat at medium and bring to a gentle simmer Stir often so the rice does not stick to the skillet

Finish Cooking:

Continue to simmer until most of the liquid is absorbed by the rice Turn off the heat and let the rice rest covered for five minutes so the steam finishes cooking it Serve hot and enjoy each smoky spicy bite

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The bell peppers always remind me of my grandma’s kitchen I still remember her teaching me to chop peppers and onions while the sausage sizzled Those kitchen smells meant we were about to eat something extra comforting

Storage Tips

To store leftovers let the dish cool fully and transfer to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days For longer storage freeze in portions and thaw in the fridge before reheating To keep the rice from drying out add a splash of broth or water before reheating on the stove or in the microwave

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Cajun sausage try andouille for a classic Louisiana taste or even kielbasa for milder flavor Use vegetable broth for a lighter version or swap white rice for brown rice Just allow extra time as brown rice takes longer to cook For a plant based version use vegetarian sausage and extra bell peppers

Serving Suggestions

This skillet meal makes a full dinner on its own but I love serving it with green beans or a crisp salad It is amazing alongside a tall glass of iced tea or lemonade For potlucks present it right from the skillet so everyone can scoop their own hearty portion

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Cultural Touch

Cajun sausage and rice is inspired by classic jambalaya and reflects the spirit of Southern hospitality The holy trinity of onion bell pepper and celery is at the heart of much Louisiana cooking This recipe keeps those roots and makes them family friendly for busy nights

Common Recipe Questions

→ What makes this dish taste distinctly Cajun?

The combination of smoky sausage, bell pepper, onion, and celery—the 'holy trinity'—along with Cajun seasoning delivers that signature bold, Southern flavor.

→ Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! Andouille is classic for Cajun dishes, but kielbasa or any smoked sausage works well and still brings great flavor.

→ Is it very spicy?

The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning blend. Start with a mild version if you're sensitive to spice and add more for extra kick.

→ What sides go well with this sausage and rice?

Enjoy it on its own, or pair with green beans, a fresh side salad, or crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.

→ How do I keep the rice from sticking?

Stir occasionally as the rice simmers and keep the heat on low once it reaches a gentle simmer to ensure even cooking.

→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well for meal prep. Store in the refrigerator and gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.