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Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet dish served in a colorful pan

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

This one-skillet meal features smoky sausage, sautéed peppers and onions, and seasoned rice, all in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Additional oil may be needed for browning.
  • 12–16 oz smoked sausage, sliced (andouille or kielbasa) Choose based on desired spiciness.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 pieces bell peppers, chopped (mixed colors)
  • 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (not instant) Do not use instant rice.
  • 1.5–2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste.
  • 2 cups chicken broth, hot Keep broth hot to avoid cooling the pan.
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced smoked sausage in a single layer. Cook for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and slightly crisp at the edges.
  3. Remove a piece of sausage to taste for seasoning.
  4. Add chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened.
  5. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
  6. Add the rice and Cajun seasoning. Stir to coat the rice with oil and spices and toast for about 1 minute.
  7. Pour in hot chicken broth and stir everything once to combine.
  8. Bring to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 18–22 minutes.
  9. Remove from heat. Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper to taste, and let rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For a creamier finish, try stirring in 2–3 tablespoons of cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end. Optional toppings include lime/lemon, green onions, or sour cream.