
Grab one pan, toss together smoky sausage, fluffy cooked rice, and colorful peppers for a down-home Southern meal that's way easier than it looks. You get all that big, bold Cajun taste with barely any cleanup.
I’ve tried a ton of Cajun dinners, but this is my comfort go-to. All those flavors soak right into the rice, while that smoky sausage does its thing and makes every bite feel special.
Must-Have Tools
- Andouille Sausage: Look for smoked varieties with visible spices so you get extra flavor
- Chicken Broth: Stick to low-salt kinds, so you’re in control of the seasoning
- Cajun Seasoning: Go with blends where you can spot herbs and spices easily
- Bell Peppers: Bright, shiny peppers in lots of colors make it pop on the plate
- Long-grain Rice: Choose rice that’ll cook up separate and fluffy, not mushy
- Fresh Garlic: Get bulbs that feel heavy and tight for the best taste

Easy Steps For Success
- Finishing Touch:
- Toss the sausage back into your pan at the end, warming it up so everything tastes smoky and rich.
- Magic With Liquid:
- Pour broth in, watch for bubbles, then pop the lid on so it simmers gently. You want the rice tender, but don’t let it go mushy!
- Rice Moves:
- Spoon in your rinsed rice and let it get a little golden in that veggie oil. This part adds unbeatable depth.
- Veggie Groove:
- With sausage set aside, drop colorful peppers and onions into the skillet, letting them get soft and sweet as they cook down.
- Sausage Start:
- Fire up your biggest pan, then sizzle sliced sausage in a single layer and let it get crisp and browned.
Those spicy sausage bites teamed with soft veggies always take me back to Louisiana visits. The smoky kick from the sausage lingers and makes you wanna try another spoonful.
Tasty Sides
Pair your one-pan meal with a slab of buttered cornbread, some tangy greens, or crunchy French bread. Hit it with hot sauce and a cold beer, and you’ve got a real Cajun feast.
Fun Variations
Switch things up by swapping out sausage for shrimp. Go full veggie with mushrooms and a plant-based sausage, or turn up the heat by adding fresh jalapenos and extra cayenne.
Leftover Gameplan
Spoon leftovers into a container, seal tight, and keep in the fridge for up to three days. Warm it on the stove with a splash of broth so it stays just right. Top with fresh herbs for a little boost after reheating.

This skillet is my crowd-feeding classic. I love how basic stuff turns into something so crave-worthy—my friends can’t help going back for seconds. Shows you don't need fancy tricks for real-deal Southern flavor.