If you’re craving a quick, bold, and satisfying meal, look no further than this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet. Packed with smoky sausage, fluffy rice, colorful bell peppers, and the rich seasoning of the American South, this one-pan wonder comes together fast and delivers big on taste. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, making it ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or casual dinners with friends.
With the spice of Cajun seasoning and the comforting texture of rice, this skillet dish is a perfect balance of heat, heartiness, and homestyle goodness. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, so cleanup is just as easy as the cooking.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz smoked sausage or andouille, sliced into coins
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper (any color), diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 1/4 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish
Optional: hot sauce or red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
Step 1: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat in the oil and flavor. Pour in chicken broth and add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
Step 4: Return the sausage to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is fully cooked and liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Remove from heat and let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff rice with a fork. Garnish with parsley and serve warm with optional hot sauce.
Notes
To make it spicier, choose andouille sausage or add cayenne pepper. For a veggie boost, mix in corn, spinach, or diced tomatoes. This dish also works great with leftover chicken or shrimp. Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days or freeze for up to 1 month.
Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Southern / Cajun-Inspired
Course: Dinner, One-Pot Meal
Conclusion
This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the kind of flavorful, satisfying dinner that proves simple ingredients can create something truly special. It’s bold, hearty, and comforting all in one—perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, this one-skillet favorite deserves a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.