Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

This easy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect easy and filling weeknight dinner, packed with plenty of smoky-spicy flavor! Enjoy this dish for casual family dinners or when entertaining friends. It’s quick to prepare and sure to impress with its robust flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet can be whipped up in just 45 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked in a single skillet, cleanup is a breeze. You’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal!
• Flavorful & Filling: The combination of Andouille sausage, spices, and rice creates a hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor. It’s perfect for those who love a little kick in their meals.
• Versatile: Customize this dish with your favorite vegetables or different types of sausage to suit your taste preferences.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe offers great value without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into cooking, gather the necessary tools to make your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet shine.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle or spoon for stirring

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep skillet or Dutch oven: These are essential for browning the sausage and simmering the rice together evenly.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes slicing the sausage and dicing vegetables easy and efficient.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for all your chopping needs.

Ingredients

This easy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect easy and filling weeknight dinner, packed with plenty of smoky-spicy flavor!

For the Sausage

• 14 oz. Andouille sausage ($3.99)

For the Vegetables

• 1 Tbsp cooking oil ($0.04)
• 1 bell pepper ($0.89)

For the Spices

• 1 tsp smoked paprika ($0.10)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano ($0.05)
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme ($0.05)
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder ($0.02)
• 1/4 tsp onion powder ($0.02)
• 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper ($0.02)
• 1/8 tsp freshly cracked black pepper ($0.01)

For the Base

• 1 15oz. can fire roasted diced tomatoes ($1.00)
• 1 cup long grain white rice ($0.62)

For the Liquid

• 1.5 cups chicken broth ($0.20)

For Garnish

• 2 green onions, sliced ($0.20)

How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Slice the sausage into ¼-½ inch thick slices.
Add the sausage and cooking oil to a deep skillet or Dutch oven.
Sauté over medium heat until browned.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

While the sausage cooks, dice the bell pepper.
Once browned, add bell pepper to the skillet.
Continue to sauté for about one more minute.

Step 3: Toast Spices

Add smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper to the skillet.
Continue sautéing for one minute more to toast spices.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Add fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices), rice, and chicken broth to the skillet.
Stir to combine everything well.

Step 5: Simmer

Place a lid on the skillet.
Turn heat up to medium-high until broth reaches a full boil.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Step 6: Rest & Serve

After 20 minutes, remove from heat but let it rest with the lid on for an additional 5 minutes.
Remove the lid, fold in sausage and rice gently to redistribute them.
Top with sliced green onions before serving!

How to Serve Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Serving your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet can elevate the meal experience. Here are some ideas to enhance your dish and make it even more enjoyable.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Adds a fresh touch that brightens up the dish.
• Cilantro: Offers a unique flavor that complements the spices in the skillet.

Pair with Bread

• Crusty baguette: Perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce.
• Cornbread: Offers a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of the skillet.

Add a Side Salad

• Simple green salad: A light option that provides crunch and freshness.
• Caesar salad: A classic choice that adds creaminess to the meal.

Include Hot Sauce

• Louisiana hot sauce: A dash can intensify the flavors for those who love heat.
• Sriracha: Adds a sweet-spicy kick, perfect for adventurous eaters.

Serve with Extra Vegetables

• Grilled zucchini: Adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the sausage.
• Roasted Brussels sprouts: Their earthy taste complements the spices in the dish.

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How to Perfect Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

To make an outstanding Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality sausage: Opt for high-quality Andouille sausage for the best smoky flavor.
• Sauté vegetables well: Properly cooking the bell pepper enhances its sweetness and texture.
• Simmer gently: Allowing it to simmer on low helps meld all flavors beautifully.
• Rest before serving: Letting it sit after cooking allows rice to absorb more flavors.
• Customize spice level: Adjust cayenne pepper according to your heat preference.
• Experiment with proteins: Try substituting chicken or shrimp for variety in your meals.

Best Side Dishes for Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Complementing your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Garlic bread: Simple yet delicious, perfect for mopping up sauce.
2. Coleslaw: Crunchy and refreshing; balances out the spiciness of the skillet.
3. Steamed broccoli: A healthy addition that adds color and texture to your plate.
4. Sweet potato fries: Their sweetness contrasts nicely with spicy flavors.
5. Fried okra: A Southern classic that adds crunch and pairs well with sausage dishes.
6. Macaroni and cheese: Creamy comfort food that is always a hit with families.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious meal.

• Not browning the sausage properly: Browning adds flavor. Make sure to cook the sausage until it has a nice color before adding other ingredients.
• Skipping the spice toast: Toasting spices enhances their flavor. Always sauté spices for at least one minute before adding liquids.
• Using too much liquid: Too much broth can make the rice mushy. Stick to the recommended amount for perfect texture.
• Not letting it rest: Resting allows flavors to meld. Do not skip this step after cooking; let it sit covered for five minutes.
• Neglecting fresh garnishes: Fresh herbs or green onions add brightness. Always top your dish before serving for extra flavor and color.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover in foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet.

Can I use other types of sausage in this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet?

Yes! Feel free to substitute with chicken sausage or turkey sausage if you prefer a leaner option.

What can I serve with Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs well with a side salad or some crusty bread.

How spicy is Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet?

The spiciness depends on the amount of cayenne pepper you use. Adjust to your taste preference!

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or legumes like black beans for a vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This easy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is not only filling but also customizable! Add your favorite vegetables or swap out the protein as desired. Try it today, and enjoy a comforting meal that brings warmth and joy to your dinner table!