Easy & Flavorful Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet in One Pan

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

• 1 lb Cajun smoked sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds: The star protein, providing savory, smoky, and spicy depth. Use quality pre-cooked Cajun sausage for the ultimate flavor.
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice, uncooked: Forms the comforting base, soaking up all the delicious Cajun flavors. Rinsing prevents mushiness and ensures perfectly fluffy grains.
• 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred): The essential liquid for cooking the rice, infusing it with savory depth. Low-sodium allows better control over overall saltiness.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for browning sausage and sautéing vegetables, building the first layer of flavor. Any neutral cooking oil works well here.
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds a touch of acidity, sweetness, and body, balancing the rich flavors. Don’t drain them; the liquid adds crucial moisture.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: A foundational aromatic, contributing a sweet and pungent base to the Cajun flavor profile. Chop evenly for consistent cooking.
• 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped: Part of the “Holy Trinity,” it adds a fresh, slightly bitter, and crisp counterpoint. Choose firm, vibrant peppers.
• 2 stalks celery, chopped: Completes the “Holy Trinity,” adding an earthy, slightly peppery crunch and depth of flavor. Choose crisp, bright green stalks.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: An indispensable aromatic, providing pungent depth that elevates all other flavors. Freshly minced garlic is always superior to jarred.
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning: The absolute key to authentic Cajun flavor, delivering warmth and spice. Adjust to your heat preference, but don’t skip this essential blend!
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste: Enhances all individual flavors and brings the dish into balance. Taste and adjust at the end for perfect seasoning.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a subtle warmth and pungent kick, complementing the Cajun spices beautifully. Freshly ground pepper offers the best aroma.
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): A fresh, mild oniony garnish that adds color and a bright, crisp finish. Slice thinly right before serving for best impact.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a final pop of color and herbaceous freshness, lifting the rich flavors. Flat-leaf parsley is generally preferred for its flavor.

How to Make Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet (One-Pan in 30 minutes!)

Sauté Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Brown sliced sausage for 3-5 minutes until lightly crispy; remove. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery to the pan. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. This builds your flavor base for the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet.

Toast Rice:

Stir in minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook 1 minute until fragrant. Add uncooked long-grain white rice, stirring to coat. Toast for another 2 minutes, ensuring every grain is well integrated and slightly golden. This step deepens the flavor profile.

Add Liquids:

Pour in chicken broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Return the sausage to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring to combine. This sets the stage for a delicious Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet (One-Pan in 30 minutes!).

Simmer Skillet:

Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and simmer for 15-18 minutes. The rice should be tender and all liquid absorbed. Resist peeking too much to keep the steam in, which helps cook the rice perfectly.

Rest & Fluff:

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the rice to fully steam. Gently fluff the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet with a fork before serving.

Garnish & Enjoy:

Garnish your delicious Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet with fresh sliced green onions and chopped parsley. Serve immediately for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any weeknight.

How to Store Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet (One-Pan in 30 minutes!)

To keep your Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet fresh, store any leftovers promptly in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for 3-4 days. Leaving it out too long can lead to spoilage; trust me, you don’t want to find that off smell or slimy texture later. Always refrigerate quickly to maintain its delicious quality.

You can chop the “Holy Trinity” (onion, bell pepper, celery) a day ahead to save prep time. However, for the best texture and flavor, cook the rice fresh when ready to assemble the skillet. For reheating, gently warm portions in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth.

What to Serve with Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet (One-Pan in 30 minutes!)

Serve your delicious Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet hot, straight from the pan. For a vibrant presentation, garnish with extra green onions and a fresh sprinkle of parsley. It’s perfect served warm. You can easily pair this hearty dish with a simple, crisp green salad or warm, buttery cornbread for a complete meal.

I personally love to serve this skillet in big, cozy bowls. It’s the perfect fuss-free meal, especially on a chilly evening, making it incredibly satisfying to enjoy. A dash of extra hot sauce always makes it even better!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of sausage in this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet?

Yes, but stick to smoked sausage for flavor. While other types work, a non-Cajun variety will significantly alter the authentic taste. My grandmother always insisted on Cajun smoked, and she was right – it’s key.

→ Can I make this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet ahead or freeze it for later?

You can prep the “Holy Trinity” ahead. Freezing the cooked skillet is possible, but the rice texture might become softer upon reheating. I prefer to enjoy it fresh, or from the fridge.

→ How do I prevent mushy rice in my one-pan Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet?

The key is to avoid overcooking and resist peeking during simmering. Use the exact liquid amount and let it rest, covered, off the heat. My first attempt was mushy, so I learned this the hard way!

→ Is it possible to make this savory Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet gluten-free?

Yes, absolutely! Ensure your Cajun smoked sausage and chicken broth are certified gluten-free. Most other ingredients are naturally GF. Always check labels to be safe, as some brands vary.

→ Can I double this Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe for a larger gathering?

Yes, you can double it, but use a much larger skillet to ensure even cooking and sufficient surface area. You might also need to slightly increase simmering time. I’ve done it for parties successfully.