Can I use regular rice instead of instant rice?

Regular long-grain rice will work, but you'll need to adjust cooking times and liquid amounts. Add about 1/2 cup more broth and simmer covered for 15-20 minutes instead of 5, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is entirely customizable! Andouille sausage has some heat, so if you're sensitive to spice, use kielbasa instead and go light on the Cajun seasoning. You can always add more seasoning at the table.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth instead. For extra substance, add a can of drained red beans to make a complete protein.

What's the best Cajun seasoning to use?

While store-bought blends like Tony Chachere's or Slap Ya Mama work wonderfully, you can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme. Homemade allows you to control salt and heat levels.

Cajun Sausage and Rice Recipe

Name: Cajun Sausage and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup diced red bell pepper; 1 cup diced yellow or green bell pepper; 1 cup diced celery; 1 cup diced white or yellow onion; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley; 12 ounces andouille sausage or kielbasa, sliced; 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 ¼ cups instant white rice; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; Cajun seasoning (to taste)

Description

This Cajun Sausage and Rice is a hearty, flavorful one-pot dish that combines spicy andouille sausage, colorful bell peppers, fragrant seasonings, and quick-cooking rice to create a comforting meal in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish is bursting with bold Cajun flavors and is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Vegetables and Seasonings

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup diced red bell pepper
1 cup diced yellow or green bell pepper
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced white or yellow onion
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Proteins and Rice

12 ounces andouille sausage or kielbasa, sliced
1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 1/4 cups instant white rice

Flavoring

3 tablespoons tomato paste
Cajun seasoning (to taste)

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Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the olive oil, followed by the red bell pepper, yellow or green bell pepper, celery, and onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
Cook the Sausage:
Add the sliced andouille sausage (or kielbasa) to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to brown on both sides. This will enhance its flavor and texture.
Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn.
Incorporate Tomato Paste:
Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir to evenly distribute it. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, which will help develop its robust flavor.
Simmer with Broth and Rice:
Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and stir well, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Once simmering, add the instant white rice and mix thoroughly. Cover the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Season and Garnish:
Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in Cajun seasoning to taste, adjusting to your spice preference. Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.

Notes

Rice Substitute: It’s essential to use instant white rice for this recipe. Substituting with brown instant rice or regular rice will require different cook times and may necessitate altering the liquid ratio.
Adjusting Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. Alternatively, feel free to add more for a spicier kick.
Leftovers: This dish reheats well. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Info: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 870mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 40mg