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If you’re looking for a hearty meal that basically cooks itself, this One-Pan Cajun Sausage & Rice Skillet is sure to please. It brings bold, smoky flavors to the table and comes together in one skillet for effortless cleanup. Gather your spices and a kick of heat, and get ready for a rice dish that’ll make you feel like you’re strolling through the French Quarter.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet with a snug-fitting lid. Once the oil shimmers, add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned on both sides, about 3 to 4 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
In the same skillet, sauté the bell pepper and onion over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another minute, just until fragrant. Then, return the cooked sausage to the skillet and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Next, stir in the rice, letting it absorb some of the pan flavors for a minute or two. Carefully pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes, stirring to combine. Cover the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has soaked up most of the liquid.
Once done, turn off the heat and allow the dish to rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork, taste and adjust the seasonings, and garnish with green onions or parsley for a fresh finish.
This one-pan wonder is great for busy weeknights, and the Cajun spices make it a winner for anyone who loves bold, comforting flavors. You can easily switch in turkey sausage or a plant-based sausage alternative for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly twist. If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for no-salt-added diced tomatoes and choose a low-sodium chicken broth. No matter how you slice it, this One-Pan Cajun Sausage & Rice Skillet serves up cozy Southern charm without all the fuss.
