Cajun Sausage & Rice

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Craving something hearty, smoky, and just the right amount of spicy? Cajun Sausage & Rice is that one-skillet comfort dish that checks every box. It’s loaded with smoky sausage, creamy spiced rice, and that bold Cajun flavor that keeps you coming back for just one more bite.

This meal delivers major payoff with minimal effort. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a weeknight or meal prepping for the week ahead, this Cajun classic comes together quickly and easily. Plus, the ingredients are pantry-friendly, so chances are you already have most of what you need.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this Cajun Sausage & Rice just right starts with the right prep and tools. The backbone of this dish is its one-pot magic, and for that, a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven is essential. It allows the rice to cook evenly without sticking and gives the sausage enough space to brown beautifully.

You’ll also need a sharp knife and cutting board for slicing sausage and aromatics, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, and a lid to help the rice steam perfectly.

Optional but handy? A grater if you want to finish it with a sprinkle of cheese, and measuring cups/spoons to keep your flavor balance on point.

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Ingredients for the Cajun Sausage & Rice

• Smoked sausage: Brings the bold, smoky flavor and juicy texture that defines this dish.
• Long-grain rice: Absorbs the broth and spices, creating that tender, creamy base.
• Yellow onion: Adds aromatic depth and sweetness.
• Garlic cloves: Provides a rich, savory backbone.
• Bell pepper: For a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with flavor and keeps it from drying out.
• Heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy finish.
• Cajun seasoning: The soul of the recipe—it adds heat, smokiness, and complexity.
• Olive oil or butter: Used for sautéing and boosting richness.
• Salt & black pepper: Essential for balancing all the flavors.

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How To Make the Cajun Sausage & Rice

Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until browned on both sides. Remove and set aside—you want those crispy edges!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed, then sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until softened. Toss in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add your uncooked long-grain rice directly into the skillet and stir it for a couple of minutes. This toasting adds a nutty depth and helps keep the rice from getting mushy.

Step 4: Simmer with Flavor

Pour in the chicken broth and stir in Cajun seasoning. Return the sausage to the pan, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer until the rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed (about 18-20 minutes).

Step 5: Finish Creamy

Once the rice is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Let it sit uncovered for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Top with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness, and serve hot!

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How to Serve and Store Cajun Sausage & Rice

This dish is best served piping hot straight from the skillet. Spoon it into shallow bowls to showcase those glistening slices of sausage on top of the creamy rice. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a few dashes of hot sauce for extra punch.

As for sides, Cajun Sausage & Rice pairs beautifully with cornbread, sautéed greens, or a crisp garden salad to cut through the richness.

For storing, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to bring back the creamy texture. It also freezes well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight before reheating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of sausage works best?

Smoked sausage, like andouille or kielbasa, works beautifully for this recipe. They bring in that savory depth and bold flavor.

Can I use brown rice instead?

You can, but be aware that it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Adjust accordingly and keep an eye on moisture levels.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a kick, but it’s more flavorful than fiery. You can always reduce or increase the Cajun seasoning to suit your heat preference.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes! Just skip the heavy cream or substitute with a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or oat milk for a similar texture.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely. Add mushrooms, spinach, or even diced tomatoes to bulk it up and balance the richness.

How can I make it vegetarian?

Swap the sausage with a plant-based smoked sausage or hearty beans and use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.

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Want More Cajun-Inspired Comfort Meals?

If you loved the deep, savory kick of this Cajun Sausage & Rice, you’re in for more cozy, flavorful dishes that hit the same notes.

You might also like the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli, where tender pasta and spicy chicken create an ultra-creamy skillet meal. Or try the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta for a tangy, smoky twist on a Southern favorite.

For more rice-forward dishes, check out the One Pot French Onion Chicken Rice Recipe or keep it zesty with Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta if you enjoy a little more heat.

Looking to explore more bold, comforting recipes? I share new favorites weekly on my Pinterest: LadyPlate Recipes. Save and share your top picks!

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this recipe to your comfort food board for next week. Just hit the Pin button.

If you make this, I’d love to hear how it went. Did you use a different sausage? Did you stir in some extra heat? Drop a comment below and let me know—I always enjoy hearing your spin on it!

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