Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet (One-Pan Dinner in 30 minutes!)

Quick and Flavorful Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

Are you looking for a one-pan dinner that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor? Look no further! This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty meal in just 30 minutes. With its mix of savory sausages, aromatic spices, and wholesome rice, this dish is a family favorite that won’t disappoint.

Ingredients

To whip up this delectable dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450g) Cajun sausage (Andouille or your preferred type), sliced
  • 1 cup (200g) long-grain rice, rinsed
  • 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (150g) bell peppers, chopped (any color)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust for spice preference)
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped green onions and fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and sliced Cajun sausage. Cook until the sausage is browned, releasing its savory goodness, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and chopped bell peppers. Sauté until they are softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the browned sausage to the skillet. Add the rinsed rice, diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. Avoid lifting the lid too frequently to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.

Tips for Success

  • Customize Your Spice Level: Feel free to tweak the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your taste preference—add more if you like it spicy!
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or roasted vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
  • Meal Prep: This dish is perfect for leftovers! Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

In just 30 minutes, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is sure to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation. So gather your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and savor the taste of Cajun cooking right at home! Enjoy your culinary adventure!