Cajun Sausage And Rice: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Cajun Sausage And Rice
Cajun Sausage and Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth and flavor to your table. This dish combines the smokiness of beef sausage with the vibrant tastes of spices and vegetables, making it a go-to recipe for a hearty family dinner. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something to impress your guests, this recipe will not disappoint.
A Personal Story Behind My Cajun Sausage And Rice Journey
Growing up in a family that cherished cooking, Cajun dishes always held a special place in our hearts. I remember my grandmother preparing this dish on chilly evenings, filling the house with irresistible aromas. It became a tradition to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter, all while enjoying this delicious meal. Today, I carry on that legacy by making Cajun Sausage and Rice for my family, creating new memories and flavor-filled moments.
What Makes This Cajun Sausage And Rice Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the burst of flavors it offers. The combination of beef sausage, bell peppers, and spices creates a rich and satisfying dish. The use of fire-roasted diced tomatoes adds a depth of flavor, while the rice absorbs all those delicious juices, making every bite a delight. Plus, it’s adaptable! You can easily add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste.
The Full Cajun Sausage And Rice Recipe
Ingredients
- 14 oz. beef sausage, sliced
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
- ⅛ tsp cayenne pepper
- ⅛ tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
- 15 oz. fire roasted diced tomatoes (1 can)
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1½ cups chicken broth
- 2 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the sliced beef sausage and sauté until well browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry if it browns a bit on the bottom; that adds flavor!
- While the sausage is cooking, dice the bell pepper. Once the sausage is browned, add the bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in the spices: smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper. Sauté for another minute to toast the spices, enhancing their flavors.
- Add the fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices), uncooked rice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom for extra flavor.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and increase the heat to medium-high until the broth comes to a full boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to finish cooking.
- Finally, remove the lid and gently fold the sausage and rice together to mix. Top with sliced green onions and serve hot!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Cajun Sausage And Rice
This dish is perfect on its own but can be served with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. For added nutrition, consider incorporating peas or corn into the mix. If you prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with different types of sausage or add in other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a unique twist!
Frequently Asked Questions About Cajun Sausage And Rice
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for beef sausage, you can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Just ensure it’s fully cooked before adding it to the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze Cajun Sausage and Rice! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 350
- Servings: 4
Cajun Sausage And Rice
Equipment
- Deep skillet or Dutch oven
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 14 oz beef sausage, sliced
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 0.5 tsp dried oregano
- 0.5 tsp dried thyme
- 0.25 tsp garlic powder
- 0.25 tsp onion powder
- 0.125 tsp cayenne pepper
- 0.125 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked
- 15 oz fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1.5 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- In a deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the cooking oil over medium heat. Add the sliced beef sausage and sauté until well browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry if it browns a bit on the bottom; that adds flavor!
- While the sausage is cooking, dice the bell pepper. Once the sausage is browned, add the bell pepper to the skillet and sauté for an additional minute.
- Stir in the spices: smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper. Sauté for another minute to toast the spices.
- Add the fire roasted diced tomatoes (with juices), uncooked rice, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and increase the heat to medium-high until the broth comes to a full boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
- Finally, remove the lid and gently fold the sausage and rice together to mix. Top with sliced green onions and serve hot!