Description
Spicy, savory, and packed with bold Cajun flavors, this Cajun Beef Sausage and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder! Perfect for busy weeknights, this hearty dish comes together quickly with simple ingredients. Juicy beef sausage, tender rice, and a blend of aromatic spices make every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s an easy meal with minimal cleanup—just one skillet needed!
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Ingredients
Scale
Cajun Beef Sausage and Rice Skillet
To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 12 oz beef sausage, sliced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon salt (adjust if needed)
- ½ teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage & Veggies
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sliced beef sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Toast the Rice & Add Seasonings
- Add the rice to the skillet and stir for about 1 minute to lightly toast it.
- Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
Step 3: Simmer Everything Together
- Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir to combine.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and bring everything to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 18-20 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
Step 4: Final Touches & Serve
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and stir in hot sauce (if using).
- Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot!
Notes
- Use the Right Rice: Long-grain white rice works best—avoid instant rice as it may turn mushy.
- Adjust the Spice: Cajun seasoning can be spicy, so start with less and add more to taste.
- Make It Smokier: Add a dash of liquid smoke or extra smoked paprika for deeper flavor.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Cajun