Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet Recipe for Busy Weeknights

Busy Weeknight Savior: Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet

Are you tired of the endless weeknight dinner dilemma, staring into the fridge wondering what magical, time-saving meal you can whip up? In today’s fast-paced world, studies show that busy households spend an average of 45 minutes per night on dinner preparation and cleanup. If that sounds familiar, you need a culinary hero! Enter the Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet – a one-pan wonder that’s packed with smoky sausage, vibrant bell peppers, a kick of Cajun spice, and fluffy rice. This quick and flavorful meal is perfect for those hectic evenings or when you’re simply craving a comforting taste of the South without the fuss.

Flavor Fiesta: Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is designed for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

The Stars of the Show

• Smoked Sausage: 12-16 ounces, sliced into ½-inch rounds. Andouille or kielbasa work beautifully, offering a rich, smoky depth. (Look for sausage with a good fat content for maximum flavor and tenderness.)
• Rice: 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice, rinsed. Jasmine or Basmati rice will also yield delicious results, adding a fragrant aroma. (Rinsing removes excess starch, preventing a gummy texture.)
• Bell Peppers: 2 medium, any color (red, yellow, green), chopped. The color variety adds visual appeal and a spectrum of sweet, crisp flavors.

Aromatic Adventures

• Onion: 1 medium, chopped. A yellow or white onion provides a foundational sweetness.
• Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced. The pungent heart of many savory dishes.
• Cajun Seasoning: 1-2 tablespoons, adjust to your spice preference. This is your flavor powerhouse, bringing heat and complex spice notes. (Brands vary in salt and spice level, so taste and adjust.)
• Optional: Cayenne Pepper: ½ teaspoon, for an extra kick.

Liquid Gold and Flavor Boosters

• Chicken Broth: 2 cups. Low-sodium broth is recommended so you can control the saltiness, especially with the sausage. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian twist.
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can, undrained. Adds moisture, acidity, and a lovely red hue. Fire-roasted tomatoes provide an extra layer of smoky depth.
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing.

Optional Garnishes (For Extra Zing!)

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Green onions, sliced
• A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt

Timing is Everything

Compared to the average 60-minute weeknight meal, this sausage and rice skillet is a true time-saver, fitting perfectly into even the busiest schedules. The minimal prep and streamlined cooking process mean you can get a hearty, delicious meal on the table in under an hour.

Cooking Up a Storm: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

This is where the “easy” in easy sausage and rice skillet truly shines. Chop your bell peppers and onion, mince your garlic, and slice your sausage. Rinse your rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Having everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and rendered some of its fat, about 5-7 minutes. The browning process adds a crucial depth of flavor and a delightful texture.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

Remove the browned sausage from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons of the rendered fat in the pan (drain excess if needed). Add the chopped onions and bell peppers to the skillet, and cook, stirring, until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Step 4: Toast the Rice

Add the rinsed rice to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir and cook for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly in the rendered fat. This step enhances the nutty flavor of the rice and helps to keep the grains separate during cooking.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Now, it’s time to bring it all together. Stir in the Cajun seasoning (and cayenne, if using) until everything is well coated. Pour in the chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet tightly, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid the temptation to lift the lid too often, as this releases steam and can affect the cooking time and texture of the rice.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute, ensuring perfectly fluffy rice. Gently stir in the reserved browned sausage. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and green onions if desired.

Nutritional Snapshot

While exact nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients used (especially the sausage), a typical serving of this Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet is generally:

• Calories: Approximately 450-600 kcal
• Protein: High, primarily from the sausage
• Carbohydrates: Moderate, from the rice
• Fat: Moderate, depending on sausage fat content

(Note: This is an estimate. For precise nutritional information, it’s best to use a recipe calculator with your specific ingredients.)

Healthier Twists, Undiminished Flavor

Looking to lighten things up without sacrificing taste? Try these smart swaps:

• Leaner Sausage: Opt for turkey sausage or a lower-fat pork sausage.
• Brown Rice: Substitute brown rice for white rice. It adds fiber and nutrients, though it will require a slightly longer cooking time (follow package directions).
• Lots of Veggies: Pile on extra bell peppers, or add in chopped zucchini, spinach, or kale during the last few minutes of simmering.
• Reduced Sodium Broth: Always a good choice for controlling salt intake.

Serving Suggestions: Elevate Your Plate

This skillet is a complete meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it even more special:

• Fresh Herbs: A generous sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro adds brightness.
• Tangy Topping: A dollop of sour cream, Greek yogurt, or a drizzle of sriracha can add a delightful contrast.
• Green Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover savory juices.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

To ensure your Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time, steer clear of these common mistakes:

• Not Rinsing Rice: This can lead to a gummy, starchy texture.
• Opening the Lid Too Soon: Resist the urge! It disrupts the simmering process and can result in undercooked rice.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Ensure your skillet is large enough to allow ingredients to cook evenly.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks quickly; add it towards the end of sautéing vegetables and stir constantly.
• Not Tasting and Adjusting: Sausage and seasonings can vary greatly. Always taste before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or spice as needed.

Storing Your Masterpiece

Leftovers are a weeknight dinner’s best friend! Store any remaining sausage and rice skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the rice seems dry.

Your New Weeknight Go-To

This Easy Sausage and Rice Skillet is more than just a recipe; it’s a solution. It’s a testament to how delicious and satisfying weeknight meals can be without demanding hours in the kitchen. With its smoky, spicy, and comforting flavors, it’s destined to become a staple in your recipe rotation. So next time you’re faced with a looming weeknight dinner, remember this one-pan wonder. Give it a try and experience the joy of a simple, flavorful meal made with love. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet

• Author: Chef Mia

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Description

A one-pan wonder that’s packed with smoky sausage, vibrant bell peppers, Cajun spice, and fluffy rice. This quick and flavorful meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a taste of the South.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ozsmoked sausage (Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced into ½-inch rounds1 cuplong-grain white rice, rinsed1red bell pepper, diced1green bell pepper, diced1medium yellow or white onion, diced3cloves garlic, minced1½ cupschicken broth2 tbspCajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• 1 cuplong-grain white rice, rinsed1red bell pepper, diced1green bell pepper, diced1medium yellow or white onion, diced3cloves garlic, minced1½ cupschicken broth2 tbspCajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• 1red bell pepper, diced1green bell pepper, diced1medium yellow or white onion, diced3cloves garlic, minced1½ cupschicken broth2 tbspCajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• 1green bell pepper, diced1medium yellow or white onion, diced3cloves garlic, minced1½ cupschicken broth2 tbspCajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• 1medium yellow or white onion, diced3cloves garlic, minced1½ cupschicken broth2 tbspCajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• 3cloves garlic, minced1½ cupschicken broth2 tbspCajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• 1½ cupschicken broth2 tbspCajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• 2 tbspCajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• 1 tbspolive oilSalt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• Salt and pepper to tasteFresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• Green onions (optional, for garnish)Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
• Hot sauce (optional, for serving)

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Instructions

1. 1️⃣Prepare the Ingredients:Slice the sausage into ½-inch rounds.Dice the bell peppers and onion, and mince the garlic.Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.2️⃣Cook the Sausage:Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges.Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.3️⃣Sauté the Veggies:In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
2. Slice the sausage into ½-inch rounds.
3. Dice the bell peppers and onion, and mince the garlic.Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.2️⃣Cook the Sausage:Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges.Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.3️⃣Sauté the Veggies:In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
4. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.2️⃣Cook the Sausage:Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges.Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.3️⃣Sauté the Veggies:In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
5. 2️⃣Cook the Sausage:
6. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges.Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.3️⃣Sauté the Veggies:In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
7. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and crispy on the edges.Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.3️⃣Sauté the Veggies:In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
8. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
9. 3️⃣Sauté the Veggies:In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
10. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell peppers.Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
11. Sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
12. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
13. 4️⃣Toast the Rice:Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
14. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and oil.
15. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it smells fragrant and begins to turn golden.5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
16. 5️⃣Cook the Rice:Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
17. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Stir well to combine.
18. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
19. 6️⃣Combine and Finish:Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
20. Once the rice is cooked, return the sausage to the skillet.
21. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
22. 7️⃣Serve:Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.
23. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, green onions, and a drizzle of hot sauce, if desired.

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Notes

Adjust Spice Level:Use more or less Cajun seasoning or hot sauce based on your spice preference.Make it Your Own:Add other vegetables like celery, diced tomatoes, or corn for added flavor and texture.Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Make it Your Own:Add other vegetables like celery, diced tomatoes, or corn for added flavor and texture.Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Storage:Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.