Pin it
Take everyday items and turn them into a bold, colorful dish in just one pan. This smoky sausage and rice skillet brings that classic Cajun twist you crave. Juicy sausage, perfectly cooked rice, and bright peppers come together fast. You’ll be digging in within half an hour.
By testing lots of methods, I found that crisping up the sausage at the start creates amazing flavor for the rest of the dish. The fat that cooks out packs a punch, making the rice and veggies super tasty.
Tasty Ingredient Lineup and Picking Hacks
- Chicken broth: Gives the rice great character
- Onion: Either yellow or white onions are handy
- Cajun seasoning: Lets you control the spice
- Bell peppers: Use a bunch of colors for a pretty look
- Smoked sausage: Andouille makes it extra legit
- Long-grain rice: Wash it well so it turns out fluffy
- Garlic: Fresh cloves kick up the flavor
Simple Step-By-Step Directions
- Step 3: Rice Like a Pro
- Add broth slowly so it won't splash. Let it bubble. Slam on the lid. Don’t lift it early. Open it right at the end. Fluff and serve.
- Step 2: Deepen the Flavors
- Toss veggies into the sausage drippings. Add garlic till you barely smell it. Toast the rice in the pan for extra taste. Dump in the spices a bit at a time. Give it a taste. Use more or less spice depending on your mood.
- Step 1: Make a Flavor Base
- Get the pan nice and hot. Brown up the sausage till those edges are crispy. Take the sausage out but leave the tasty bits behind. Keep the heat steady. Only pull the sausage when you get enough color. Cover so it stays warm.
Pin it
One busy weeknight, I realized you’ve really gotta set out all the veggies and seasonings before you start. Being prepped means the rice can go in at just the right point, making everything super easy.
Quick Prep Tricks
Simplify the steps: Chop all your peppers and onions first. Measure your spices ahead of time. Have the broth close by. Slice the sausage up while the pan’s getting hot. Keep toppings on standby.
Pin it
Ways to Make It Yours
Make it your own: Fancy more kick? Add more spice. Want it milder? Use just the peppers. Toss in extra veggies. Switch up the meat. Try different types of rice—whatever works for you.
This sausage and rice skillet is my go-to when I’m slammed. You really can throw together something delicious and homemade without making it a big deal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different types of rice here?
- Long-grain’s best, but jasmine or basmati will work without changing cook time. For brown rice, plan on more broth and letting it cook longer.
- → How much heat does this have?
- It’s all about the spice blend you use. Not into spicy food? Start with less seasoning and add more or hot sauce later if you want things hotter.
- → Is it good for meal prep?
- Totally, leftovers taste great. Pop it in a sealed container for up to three days and add a bit of broth when you warm it up to keep the rice soft.
- → What sides go with it?
- Honestly, it’s enough on its own. But a quick green salad or some crusty bread for dunking are awesome with it.
- → Can I throw in other veggies?
- Sure can! Try mushrooms, celery, even tomatoes. Put firm veggies in at the start with the peppers, soft ones near the end so they don’t get mushy.