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15-Minute Cajun Sausage and Pepper Rice Skillet

Smoky sausage, sweet peppers, and quick rice simmered in a bold Cajun-style tomato sauce—an easy one-pan meal ready in about 15 minutes.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Quick & Easy Meals
Cuisine: American, Southern-inspired
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Skillet
  • 12 oz smoked sausage sliced
  • 1 tbsp olive oil if needed for browning
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced
  • 1/2 yellow onion sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning start with 1 tsp if yours is salty
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup quick-cook rice minute rice or similar
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt to taste (optional)
To Finish (optional)
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions
  • shredded cheddar to taste

Equipment

  • Large skillet with lid
  • Chef's knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausage and cook 2–3 minutes until lightly browned. Add olive oil if the pan looks dry.
  2. Add bell peppers and onion and cook 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. Stir in garlic, Cajun seasoning, and tomato paste. Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits.
  5. Stir in quick-cook rice, cover, and cook 5 minutes (or according to package) until rice is tender.
  6. Fluff the rice, taste, and adjust seasoning. Let rest 1 minute off heat to thicken.
  7. Finish with parsley or green onions and add shredded cheddar if desired.

Notes

Spice control: Cajun seasoning varies—start with 1 teaspoon and add more at the end.
Using leftover rice: Use cooked rice and reduce broth to 1/3 cup; simmer uncovered until saucy.
Add veggies: Frozen corn or spinach can be stirred in right before serving.
Storage: Keeps up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth or water to loosen.