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This Cheesy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is what I whip up when I want something comforting and bold but do not have much time to fuss in the kitchen. Creamy, cheesy, and just spicy enough, this meal makes my weeknights a lot more delicious and everyone at the table happy.
I still remember the first chilly day I put this together with what was left in my fridge—now it is a tradition for our cozy Friday nights.
Ingredients
- Cajun Smoked Sausage: gives big smoky flavor and a bit of spice choose the best quality sausage you can find
- Cream of Chicken Soup: binds everything with creamy richness
- Chicken Broth: helps the rice cook and keeps the dish moist opt for low sodium if needed
- Quick Cook Rice: makes dinner fast and never mushy use any rice just adjust the cook time
- Whole Milk: blends with the soup for that luscious texture
- Bell Peppers: add crunch and sweetness look for firm shiny peppers
- Yellow Onion: brings gentle sweetness and depth
- Chicken Bouillon Powder: pumps up the flavor in the sauce
- Cajun Seasoning: wakes up the dish choose your favorite blend for the right heat level
- Olive Oil: for sautéing the vegetables and giving a bit of richness
- Cheddar Cheese: melts perfectly for a golden creamy finish use sharp cheddar for extra punch
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep and Sauté the Aromatics:
- Dice bell peppers and onion into even pieces for even cooking Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high Add bell peppers and onions sauté for about three minutes until soft and aromatic This step creates a base of sweet and savory flavor
- Brown the Sausage:
- Slice the smoked sausage into coins Add to the skillet with the onions and peppers Sauté for six to eight minutes stirring every so often until the sausage is browned on the edges This creates deep flavor and a bit of crispness
- Combine Rice and Liquids:
- Add quick cook rice chicken broth chicken bouillon powder Cajun seasoning cream of chicken soup and whole milk Mix well so that everything is evenly combined Make sure to scrape any brown bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer on medium low Stir occasionally and let the rice absorb the savory broth This should take about ten to fifteen minutes depending on your rice package instructions The rice will swell and soak up all those creamy flavors
- Add Cheese:
- Once most of the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender stir in shredded cheddar cheese Turn off the heat and let it melt and blend in for a creamy finish Let the skillet sit a minute or two so the cheese really mingles with the rice
- Serve:
- Spoon the cheesy Cajun sausage and rice into bowls or onto plates Serve hot and enjoy fresh off the stove
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My favorite ingredient for this dish is definitely the Cajun smoked sausage It brings so much savory smoky spice that makes the whole bowl sing Once when my cousins visited they kept sneaking extra spoonfuls from the skillet before dinner was even served
Storage Tips
Let your sausage and rice cool to room temperature then store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to four days If you need to reheat microwave gently with a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creaminess or warm in a skillet on the stove stirring and adding liquid as needed This dish also freezes really well just portion it out in freezer bags or containers and thaw overnight before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any smoked sausage you prefer Andouille or kielbasa work wonderfully If you do not have cream of chicken soup try cream of mushroom for a little earthiness For a dairy free twist use your favorite unsweetened non dairy milk and leave out the cheese if needed Brown rice works too just lengthen the cook time and use more broth
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Serving Suggestions
This skillet dish is perfectly hearty on its own but sometimes I round it out with a crisp green salad or roasted green beans You can also top with extra cheddar chives or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness I once served this at a game day party and it disappeared in minutes even among picky eaters
Cultural and Historical Context
Cajun cuisine has roots in Louisiana’s Acadian settlers and is all about big bold flavors Andouille sausage and vibrant rice dishes are at the heart of Cajun cooking I like to blend traditional flavors with weeknight convenience and this recipe captures the spirit of sharing good food fast
Commonly Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, andouille or kielbasa are great alternatives to Cajun smoked sausage. Any smoked variety will add plenty of flavor.
- → What kind of rice works best?
Quick-cook white rice will keep prep fast, but you can use long-grain or brown rice—just adjust the liquid and cooking time as needed.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The Cajun seasoning adds a mild kick, but you can adjust the spice by choosing your preferred blend or adding extra for more heat.
- → Can this be made ahead?
Absolutely. Store in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze for two months. Reheat with a splash of broth for best texture.
- → Is there a way to make it creamier?
Mixing in extra shredded cheese or a splash of milk when reheating helps keep the dish extra creamy and luscious.