Cajun Sausage & Rice

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Hearty, smoky, and packed with a kick of Cajun flavor, this one-skillet Cajun Sausage & Rice recipe is what weeknight dinner dreams are made of. With bold spices, savory sausage, and tender rice that soaks up every bit of flavor, this dish is a comforting staple you’ll come back to over and over again.

What makes this dish truly shine is how easy it is to whip up. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, it delivers deep, slow-cooked taste in a fraction of the time. The Cajun seasoning adds just enough heat to warm you up without overpowering, while the rice brings everything together in a beautifully balanced bite.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Sausage & Rice

This recipe is incredibly flavorful without needing hours in the kitchen. It brings together smoky sausage and vibrant veggies with the bold essence of Cajun spice. It’s budget-friendly, satisfying, and made in just one pan, which means cleanup is a breeze.

Plus, it’s versatile. You can use whatever sausage you love—smoked, andouille, or even turkey. Make it spicier, add beans, or toss in extra greens to make it your own.

What Type of Sausage Should I Use for Cajun Sausage & Rice?

For this recipe, smoked sausage is key. Andouille is a classic choice and adds an extra level of depth with its robust spices and smoky notes. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey sausage works well too. You just want something with bold flavor that holds up nicely in the skillet as it sears and caramelizes.

Ingredients for the Cajun Sausage & Rice

This recipe uses a simple set of ingredients that come together in a bold and hearty dish. The beauty is in their synergy, each one enhancing the flavor and comfort of the finished meal.

• Smoked sausage
• Olive oil
• Bell pepper
• Celery
• Onion
• Garlic
• Cajun seasoning
• Long grain white rice
• Chicken broth
• Salt & pepper
• Green onions (optional)

How To Make the Cajun Sausage & Rice

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Slice the smoked sausage into rounds and sear in olive oil over medium-high heat. Let them get golden brown and crispy on the edges for added flavor. Once done, set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil and sauté the chopped bell pepper, celery, and onion until they start to soften. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Rice

Stir in the Cajun seasoning and rice. Let the rice toast slightly in the pan to absorb those rich flavors.

Step 4: Simmer Everything

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the seared sausage to the skillet and mix it through. Let it sit for a few minutes to meld all the flavors together. Garnish with chopped green onions if you like, and serve hot.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Sausage & Rice

This recipe generously feeds about 4 to 6 people depending on portion sizes. It’s ideal for family dinners or leftovers for the next day.

Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen it back up.

What to Serve With Cajun Sausage & Rice?

H3: Cornbread Muffins

Soft, crumbly cornbread pairs beautifully with the spicy sausage and rice.

H3: Garlic Green Beans

Crisp green beans with garlic butter are a fresh and easy side.

H3: Coleslaw

The crunch and tang of slaw offers a cool contrast to the warm, spiced rice.

H3: Creamy Mac & Cheese

For a truly comforting Southern spread, nothing beats rich, cheesy mac.

H3: Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The natural sweetness complements the heat in the rice dish.

H3: Cucumber Salad

Light and refreshing, this salad cuts through the savory richness of the main dish.

H3: Sautéed Kale

A healthy, slightly bitter green that balances the bold flavors of the sausage.

Want More Savory Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into easy, flavor-packed meals like this, you’ll want to check these out too:

• Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a comforting skillet classic.
• Tex-Mex Beef Enchiladas if you crave cheesy, saucy goodness.
• Cajun Potato Soup to stick with the Cajun flavor theme.
• Cheesy Beef Enchilada Tortellini for a pasta twist on a Tex-Mex favorite.
• Sausage and Spinach Frittata for a brunch-inspired take using sausage.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go spicy or mild? Did you add your own veggies? I love hearing your kitchen twists!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals and comfort dishes on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and find your new dinner inspiration.

Conclusion

Cajun Sausage & Rice is that ultimate comfort dish that’s easy to make, big on flavor, and adaptable to your own style. With one skillet and a handful of pantry staples, you’ve got a hearty dinner that satisfies and stores well. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend cook-up, this one’s sure to become a go-to favorite.

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