Get ready to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Louisiana with this mouthwatering Cajun-style Sausage with Red Beans and Rice! This one-skillet wonder is not just a meal, it's a culinary journey that promises to turn an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. Packed with smoky sausage, hearty beans, and perfectly seasoned rice, this recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 can (15 oz) red beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by chopping the onion, bell pepper, and slicing the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove sausage and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté chopped onions and bell peppers until they become soft and translucent, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in chicken broth and add rice, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the skillet.
- Simmer the rice for about 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
- Stir in the drained and rinsed red beans, browned sausage, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and let the mixture heat through for an additional 3-5 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes before serving. Fluff rice and mix ingredients gently.
- Serve hot, garnishing with additional Cajun seasoning or fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Tips
- Choose Quality Sausage: Select a high-quality smoked sausage like Andouille for authentic Cajun flavor.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take time to brown the sausage and caramelize the vegetables - this builds deep flavor layers.
- Rinse Beans Thoroughly: Drain and rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and remove excess starch.
- Watch Rice Liquid Ratio: Ensure you have the right amount of chicken broth for perfectly cooked, fluffy rice.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference - start mild and add more if desired.
- Let It Rest: Allow the dish to sit for 5 minutes after cooking to let flavors meld and rice absorb remaining moisture.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh chopped parsley or green onions can add a bright, fresh finish to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
