Cajun Sausage & Rice

Creamy, smoky, and packed with bold Cajun spices, Cajun Sausage & Rice is the kind of comfort food that delivers both flavor and satisfaction in every bite. The rich, cheesy rice wraps around golden-browned sausage slices, creating a savory dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you're craving something hearty or just need a one-pan meal that hits the spot, this dish has got your back.

What makes Cajun Sausage & Rice stand out is the balance of textures and spice. The smokiness of the sausage pairs beautifully with the creamy rice, while Cajun seasoning brings a kick that’s not overpowering but undeniably bold. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent yet simple to make, and once you try it, it’s likely to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Sausage & Rice

• One-pan, easy clean-up meal
• Perfectly creamy and cheesy with a spicy kick
• Family-friendly and great for leftovers
• Comes together quickly for a satisfying weeknight dinner

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this dish together seamlessly, a few key tools will help:

• Large nonstick skillet or sauté pan: This is essential for browning the sausage evenly and ensuring the rice cooks uniformly without sticking.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Helps stir the rice and sausage without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For precise seasoning and liquid ratios.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: For slicing sausage and dicing onions or any optional veggies.

These tools streamline the cooking process and ensure even cooking throughout the dish.

Preparation Tips

Make sure to brown the sausage slices well before adding the rice — this step builds a deep flavor base for the entire dish. Use long-grain white rice or parboiled rice for the best texture, as they tend to hold up better and absorb flavors more evenly. If you’re using a pre-mixed Cajun seasoning, taste it first — some blends are saltier than others, and you can adjust additional salt accordingly. Lastly, don’t rush the simmering stage; letting the rice cook low and slow makes it ultra-creamy and infused with all that smoky spice.

Ingredients for this Cajun Sausage & Rice

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 14 oz smoked sausage (Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into ¼-inch rounds
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional for extra color)
• Salt to taste (depending on your Cajun seasoning)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1: Sear the Sausage

Heat the olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until both sides are nicely browned, about 4–5 minutes. Browning adds deep flavor, so don’t skip this step. Once browned, remove sausage from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the chopped onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

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Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the uncooked rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes to toast the rice slightly. This brings out a nutty aroma and improves the texture of the final dish.

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Step 4: Add Liquid and Seasoning

Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the Cajun seasoning, paprika (if using), black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

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Step 5: Simmer and Cook the Rice

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure it’s not sticking, but avoid stirring too much. Cook until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

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Step 6: Add Cream and Cheese

Once the rice is cooked, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix gently until the cheese has melted and the dish turns creamy.

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Step 7: Return the Sausage

Add the browned sausage back into the skillet and stir everything together. Let it heat through for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.

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Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving for a touch of freshness and color. Serve hot straight from the skillet.

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Notes

This dish can be easily customized with what you have on hand. Want to sneak in more veggies? Bell peppers or diced tomatoes fit right in with the Cajun flavor profile. For a spicier kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or use hot smoked sausage. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, though it will be slightly less creamy. And if you love extra cheesy texture, mix in a bit of mozzarella or pepper jack alongside the cheddar.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too much Cajun seasoning: It can overpower the dish quickly and make it too salty if not measured properly.
• Not browning the sausage enough: Skipping this step means missing out on a big flavor boost.
• Cooking on high heat after adding cream and cheese: This can cause the sauce to break and become grainy.
• Stirring the rice too much while it cooks: It can make the rice mushy. Let it cook undisturbed for best texture.
• Using instant rice or short-grain rice: It won't hold the texture as well and can become gummy.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the mixture and warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave, stirring occasionally. This helps the creamy texture return without drying out. Avoid freezing this dish, as the cream and cheese may separate upon thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

• Calories: ~520 per serving
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of sausage works best for this dish?

Smoked sausage like Andouille or kielbasa brings a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the Cajun spices.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and increase the liquid slightly. Brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more broth.

Is it very spicy?

Not inherently. The heat level depends on your Cajun seasoning and sausage choice. You can easily make it mild or spicy to your preference.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk and skip the cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

How can I make it more filling?

Add bell peppers, corn, or even black beans for more volume and nutrition.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure your skillet is large enough, or use a Dutch oven for even cooking.

Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?

Rinsing helps remove excess starch and keeps the rice from becoming too sticky. It’s recommended but not mandatory.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk to keep the creaminess intact.

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Conclusion

Cajun Sausage & Rice is a bold, comforting, and easy-to-make meal that brings together smoky sausage, creamy cheesy rice, and a warm Cajun spice blend in perfect harmony. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl — rich, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to your taste and pantry. Whether it’s your first time cooking Cajun flavors or you’re a seasoned spice lover, this recipe is sure to earn a spot in your weekly rotation.

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