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Transform your weeknight dinner into a vibrant New Orleans-inspired feast with this one-pan Cajun Rice and Sausage Skillet. Smoky andouille sausage, colorful bell peppers, and perfectly seasoned rice come together in just 30 minutes for a meal that's both satisfying and simple.
Last night, this skillet turned an ordinary Tuesday into a festive dinner that had everyone asking for seconds.
Essential Ingredients
- Andouille Sausage: Brings authentic Cajun flavor
- Long-grain Rice: Perfect for absorbing flavors
- Bell Peppers: Add color and sweetness
- Yellow Onion: Creates flavor base
- Fresh Garlic: Essential for depth
- Cajun Seasoning: Provides signature spice
- Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and tang
- Chicken Broth: Creates perfectly cooked rice
The quality of your andouille sausage makes a difference - choose one with good spice and smoke.
Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Step 1: Sausage Browning
- Start by heating oil in large skillet, then brown sausage slices until golden, about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 2: Vegetable Sauté
- Add peppers and onion to the pan, cooking until tender but still crisp.
- Step 3: Aromatics
- Stir in garlic and Cajun seasoning, letting them become fragrant.
- Step 4: Rice Addition
- Add rice, tomatoes, and broth, bringing to perfect simmer.
- Step 5: Final Cooking
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
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Storage Solutions
- Store in airtight container up to 3 days
- Reheat with splash of broth
- Keep garnishes separate
- Avoid freezing cooked rice
Make-Ahead Tips
- Slice vegetables in advance
- Measure seasonings ahead
- Cut sausage beforehand
- Have broth ready to go
Serving Suggestions
- Complete the meal with crusty French bread, simple green salad, hot sauce on side, extra green onions, cold beer, or sweet tea
Customization Options
- Make it your own with different sausage varieties, added shrimp or chicken, extra vegetables, spice level adjustments, or rice substitutions
Troubleshooting Tips
- If rice isn't cooking properly, check liquid ratio, ensure tight-fitting lid, maintain steady temperature, and let rest full 5 minutes
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Temperature Control
- Medium-high for browning
- Medium for vegetables
- Low and slow for rice
- Rest off heat
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Rice and Sausage Skillet brings the spirit of New Orleans to your kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor. It's the kind of recipe that proves great meals don't need to be complicated.
Creating Traditions
Some recipes become instant classics in our weekly rotation. This skillet has that power, bringing a taste of Louisiana to any night of the week.
The Art of One-Pan Cooking
Understanding how to layer flavors in a single pan is key to this dish's success. Each ingredient builds on the last, creating depth and complexity.
Legacy of Flavor
While honoring traditional Cajun cuisine, this recipe makes it accessible for home cooks, proving that authentic flavors can be achieved in any kitchen.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use different sausage?
- Yes, kielbasa or any smoked sausage works, though andouille gives the most authentic Cajun flavor.
- → How spicy is this dish?
- Moderately spicy from the andouille and Cajun seasoning. Adjust seasoning amount to taste.
- → Can I use brown rice?
- Yes, but cooking time will increase to about 45 minutes, and you'll need more broth.
- → How do I store leftovers?
- Keep in airtight container in fridge up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth.
- → Can I make it spicier?
- Add a diced jalapeño with the bell peppers or use extra Cajun seasoning.