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Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet: A Flavorful One-Pan Wonder

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s as easy to make as it is full of bold, smoky flavors. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines smoked sausage, rice, and vibrant bell peppers with a kick of Cajun seasoning. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a hearty, flavorful meal that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz Smoked Sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch rounds
  • 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice, rinsed
  • 1 Red Bell Pepper, diced
  • 1 Green Bell Pepper, diced
  • 1 medium Yellow or White Onion, diced
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 ½ cups Chicken Broth
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 tbsp Olive Oil
  • Salt and Pepper, to taste
  • Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Green Onions (optional, for garnish)
  • Hot Sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • Slice the sausage into ½-inch rounds.
    • Dice the bell peppers and onion, and mince the garlic.
    • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. Cook the Sausage:
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
    • Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the Veggies:
    • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3 minutes, until softened.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. Toast the Rice:
    • Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to smell fragrant.
  5. Cook the Rice:
    • Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil.
    • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  6. Combine and Finish:
    • Once the rice is cooked, add the sausage back to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine, and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  7. Serve:
    • Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.

Notes

  1. Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming too sticky.
  2. Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or hot sauce to suit your spice preference.
  3. Use Homemade Cajun Seasoning: If you have the time, make your own Cajun seasoning for a fresher, more personalized flavor.
  4. Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like celery, zucchini, or corn for added nutrition.
  5. Don’t Overcook the Rice: Keep an eye on the rice during the simmering process to ensure it doesn’t become mushy.

Nutrition