Get ready to ignite your taste buds with a dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana right to your kitchen! This Cajun Sausage and Pepper Rice Skillet is not just a meal; it's a celebration of bold spices, smoky sausage, and colorful veggies that come together in a symphony of taste. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual get-together, this one-pan wonder is quick to prepare and promises to deliver a satisfying feast for your family or friends. Are you ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by slicing smoked sausage into half-moon shapes, dicing bell pepper and onion into uniform pieces, and mincing garlic cloves.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until oil shimmers and becomes fragrant.
- Add sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until edges start to brown and develop a slight crisp texture.
- Incorporate diced onions and bell peppers into the skillet, sautéing for an additional 4-5 minutes until vegetables become soft and slightly translucent.
- Add minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, stirring quickly to prevent garlic from burning and to distribute spices evenly throughout the mixture.
- Pour in diced tomatoes with their juice, reducing heat to medium and allowing the mixture to simmer for 5-6 minutes to develop rich flavors.
- Fold in pre-cooked rice, gently mixing all ingredients to ensure even distribution of sausage, vegetables, and seasonings.
- Continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing rice to absorb flavors and heat through completely.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding extra Cajun seasoning or salt and pepper to preference.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving hot, garnishing with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your vegetables and slice the sausage ahead of time. This way, you can quickly throw everything together when you’re ready to cook.
- Customize Your Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or choose a milder sausage. For those who love heat, consider adding some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use Leftover Rice: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. If you have some on hand, it will save you time and add even more flavor to the dish.
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to throw in other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions just before serving not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish’s freshness.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the skillet to rest for a few minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Serve with a Side: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
