Meal Prep & Planning

Cajun Sausage Skillet with Rice | An Easy Weeknight Dinner

Bygivenchycanada@gmail.com February 6, 2026February 6, 2026

What Makes This Special

Unlike traditional rice and sausage dishes that can feel bland or heavy, this recipe balances rich, smoky Cajun sausage with vibrantly seasoned veggies and fluffy rice. The magic lies in the blend of authentic Cajun spices that add layers of flavor without overwhelming the dish.

Plus, it’s all cooked in one skillet, making cleanup almost as quick as cooking. This dish perfectly fuses Southern charm with no-fuss cooking, making it both comforting and exciting.

Shopping List – Ingredients

• 1 lb Cajun or Andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Let’s Get Cooking – Instructions

1. Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil or butter.
2. Cook the sausage: Add the sliced Cajun sausage and brown it for about 4-5 minutes until it’s crispy on the edges. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the veggies: In the same skillet, add diced onions and bell peppers.

   Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

4. Add garlic and spices: Toss in minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Stir until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Combine rice and tomatoes: Stir in the rice and drained diced tomatoes, coating the rice with spices and veggies.
6. Pour in broth: Add chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover skillet, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
8. Finish up: Stir the sausage back into the skillet, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions and serve hot.

How to Store

Got leftovers? Lucky you.

Store your Cajun Sausage & Rice Skillet in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice from drying out. If you’re feeling ambitious, this dish freezes well too—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FYI, rice can get a bit mushy after freezing, but the flavors are still bang-on.

What’s Great About This

This recipe nails it on several levels: it’s quick, it’s hearty, and it brings bold, authentic Cajun flavors straight to your dinner table. It’s perfect for those days when you want something satisfying without fussing over multiple pots or endless ingredients. Nutritionally, you’re getting protein from the sausage and a good dose of veggies, so it’s a one-pan meal that passes the “actually filling” test.

Plus, it’s insanely adaptable—swap out sausage, tweak spices, or add your favorite greens. Honestly, it’s like the Swiss Army knife of skillet meals.

Don’t Make These Errors

• Don’t skip browning the sausage: You need that crispy, caramelized exterior for the best flavor. Just tossing it in won’t cut it.
• Pay attention to rice type: Long-grain white rice works best here.

  Brown rice or others need different cooking times and liquid amounts.

• Don’t rush the simmer: Letting the rice cook fully and absorb the broth is crucial. Turning the heat too high will leave your rice crunchy or burnt.
• Hold back on spices initially: You can always add more cayenne or paprika later—too much too soon can overpower the dish.
• Avoid overcrowding your pan: If you’re scaling up, use a larger skillet. Overcrowding can prevent proper browning and uneven cooking.

Different Ways to Make This

• Swap the sausage: Try chorizo, turkey sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a twist.
• Add more veggies: Zucchini, corn, or mushrooms work great for extra texture and nutrition.
• Make it spicy or mild: Adjust the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce on the side for more heat.
• Use brown rice or quinoa: If you want a healthier spin, use brown rice or quinoa but adjust broth and cooking times.
• Throw in beans: Black beans or kidney beans add heartiness and are great for a protein boost.

FAQ

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely!

This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth and check your sausage ingredients. Most sausages are safe, but always double-check labels, especially for additives.

What’s the best type of sausage for this dish?

Cajun or Andouille sausage is traditional and packs that smoky, spicy punch. But feel free to experiment with smoked sausage or even spicy Italian sausage depending on your flavor preference.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes!

You can cook it fully and refrigerate. Just reheat gently when ready to serve. It also freezes well, making it a great meal prep option.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Depends on your kid’s spice tolerance!

You can reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and adjust the seasoning to be milder while keeping the other flavors intact.

How spicy is this dish?

It has a moderate kick thanks to cayenne and smoked paprika. You can tailor it up or down. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with half the cayenne and add more later if desired.

In Conclusion

If you’re craving an easy, one-pan meal that delivers a big punch of flavor without the headache of complicated cooking, Cajun Sausage & Rice Skillet