Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is bold, hearty, and full of smoky, spicy flavor. I cook sliced sausage with onions, peppers, and garlic, then stir in perfectly seasoned rice for a one-pan meal that’s satisfying and easy to throw together. It’s my kind of comfort food—simple ingredients, big flavor, and barely any cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and convenient this dish is. Everything cooks in one skillet, which means fewer dishes and more time enjoying dinner. The Cajun spices bring a warm, peppery kick that pairs perfectly with the smoky sausage and fluffy rice. It’s the kind of recipe that’s perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or whenever I need a comforting dish with bold flavor.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced

• cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)

• olive oil or butter

• onion, diced

• bell pepper, diced (any color)

• garlic, minced

• Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• salt and black pepper

• optional: crushed red pepper flakes (for heat), green onions or parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. I heat a bit of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sliced sausage until browned, about 4–5 minutes. I remove it from the pan and set it aside.

2. In the same skillet, I add diced onion and bell pepper, cooking for about 4–5 minutes until soft.

3. I stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. I add the cooked rice to the skillet along with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. I mix well to coat everything evenly.

5. I return the sausage to the skillet and toss to combine, cooking everything together for another 2–3 minutes to heat through.

6. I taste and adjust seasoning, then garnish with sliced green onions or fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add corn, diced tomatoes, or black beans for more texture and flavor. For a spicier version, I stir in hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne. I’ve also made it with shrimp, chicken, or even tofu instead of sausage. When I want a creamy twist, I stir in a bit of cream cheese or shredded cheese at the end.

storage/reheating

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. It also reheats well in the microwave. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months—I just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What kind of sausage should I use?

I usually use andouille for smoky spice, but kielbasa or any smoked sausage works. Turkey or chicken sausage are great lighter options too.

Can I use uncooked rice?

Yes, but I cook it in the skillet with broth and cover it until tender, which adds extra time. Using pre-cooked rice keeps this recipe fast.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

It can be! I usually start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. If I want it extra spicy, I add red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, I use plant-based sausage or swap it with beans and extra vegetables. The Cajun seasoning still brings plenty of flavor.

What should I serve with it?

I usually serve it as a full meal, but it also pairs well with a side salad, roasted veggies, or cornbread for a Southern twist.

Conclusion

This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a quick, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy nights or whenever I want a no-fuss meal. With smoky sausage, aromatic veggies, and spicy Cajun seasoning all tossed with tender rice, every bite delivers serious comfort and satisfaction. It’s bold, it’s easy, and it’s always a hit at the table.

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

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This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a bold, one-pan meal featuring smoky sausage, aromatic veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice. It’s quick, hearty, and full of spicy, comforting flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.

• Author: Mayaa
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Cajun
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

• 12 oz smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or jasmine)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, sliced green onions or parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in cooked rice, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine.
5. Return sausage to skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with green onions or parsley if desired and serve hot.

Notes

• Add corn, black beans, or diced tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
• Use shrimp, chicken, or tofu instead of sausage for variety.
• For creamy texture, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese or shredded cheese at the end.
• Reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep rice moist.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 portion
• Calories: 460
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 65mg