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- 1 pound Cajun or andouille sausage, sliced into rounds - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced - 2 celery stalks, diced - 1 cup long-grain rice - 4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium) - 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained - 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish) - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) - For Cajun sausage, I suggest brands like Aidells or Johnsonville for great flavor. - Use a high-quality chicken broth like Swanson or Pacific Foods for rich taste. - For spices, try McCormick or Penzeys for authentic Cajun seasoning and freshness. These ingredients combine to create a warm and hearty dish. The sausage gives a spicy kick, while the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors. You will enjoy the balance of spices and the freshness of the veggies. Each bite will transport you to a cozy kitchen, making this dish perfect for any night. - Slicing the sausage: Start by taking 1 pound of Cajun sausage. Slice it into rounds. Aim for even pieces for better cooking. - Chopping the vegetables: Dice 1 medium onion and a bell pepper. You can use red or green. Chop 2 celery stalks into small pieces. Mince 3 cloves of garlic. - Measuring rice and broth: Measure out 1 cup of long-grain rice. Pour 4 cups of chicken broth into a measuring cup. This will help keep your cooking smooth. - Heating olive oil: In a large pot, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Heat it over medium heat until it shimmers. This means it’s hot enough. - Browning the sausage: Add the sliced sausage to the pot. Cook it until browned on both sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove it and set it aside. - Sautéing vegetables and toasting rice: In the same pot, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often. When they soften, add the minced garlic and stir for another minute. Next, toss in the rice. Stir for 2-3 minutes to toast it lightly. - Combining ingredients and simmering: Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, and smoked paprika. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the sausage back to the pot. - Resting time after cooking: Lower the heat and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 20 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb the liquid and flavors. - Fluffing the rice: After cooking, take the pot off the heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes with the lid on. This resting time helps the flavors meld. Using a fork, fluff the rice gently to separate the grains. - Garnishing before serving: To finish, add sliced green onions and chopped parsley on top. This adds a nice color and fresh taste. Serve hot and enjoy! - Adding hot sauce for extra heat: If you like spice, add your favorite hot sauce. It boosts the dish's flavor. Mix in a few dashes right before serving. - Using fresh herbs for garnish: Fresh herbs like parsley or green onions make your dish pop. They add color and a fresh taste. Sprinkle them on top just before serving. - Techniques for toasting rice: Toasting rice adds depth. Stir it in the pot with veggies for a few minutes. This step brings out a nutty flavor that enhances the dish. - How to prevent rice from sticking: To avoid sticking, stir the rice often while cooking. This keeps it loose and fluffy. Also, make sure to use enough liquid. - Adjusting liquid based on rice type: If you use brown rice, add more broth. Brown rice takes longer to cook and needs extra liquid. Use a 1:2 rice to liquid ratio for this. - Timing adjustments for a perfect cook: Watch the rice closely. Different types may need more or less time. Check it at the 15-minute mark to see if it’s done. - Best pots for one-pot dishes: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven is best. It heats evenly and prevents burning. Look for one with a tight lid. - Suggested kitchen tools for preparation: Use a sharp knife for chopping and a cutting board. A measuring cup is vital for rice and broth. A wooden spoon helps stir without scratching your pot. {{image_4}} You can switch up the proteins in this dish. Chicken, shrimp, or tofu work great. Each protein brings a unique taste. For veggies, try adding zucchini, corn, or green beans. Each choice changes the dish's texture and flavor. You can mix and match based on what you have at home. If you need gluten-free options, choose rice that is certified gluten-free. You can also use gluten-free sausage. For vegan or vegetarian options, swap sausage for plant-based meat or mushrooms. Using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth keeps it tasty and plant-based. Want more heat? Add extra Cajun seasoning or hot sauce. Try using different spices from your pantry, like Old Bay or chili powder. Each spice adds a new twist to the dish. Explore with herbs like oregano or basil for a fresh taste. This way, you can customize the dish to suit your taste. To store leftovers properly, let the dish cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for up to four days in the fridge. I recommend using glass containers. They are durable, easy to clean, and do not absorb odors. When reheating one-pot dishes, always check the temperature. The dish should reach 165°F for safety. I prefer reheating on the stovetop. It warms evenly and keeps the rice from drying out. If using a microwave, cover the dish to trap steam. Stir halfway through to heat evenly. Yes, you can freeze Cajun sausage and rice! To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible. When you want to eat it, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat on the stovetop for the best texture. Can I use dry rice instead of cooked rice? No, you cannot use cooked rice in this recipe. You need dry, long-grain rice. This helps the rice absorb flavors and cook evenly. How to adjust cooking time for different rice types? For brown rice, add 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. For quick-cooking rice, reduce time by about 5 minutes. Always check the rice package for exact times. What can I serve with Cajun sausage and rice? Try a fresh salad or some crusty bread. A side of coleslaw works well too. You can also add hot sauce for an extra kick! Is it safe to leave the dish at room temperature? No, don’t leave it out longer than two hours. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temp. Always refrigerate leftovers. How long does this dish last in the fridge? It lasts about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container for best results. Is Cajun sausage healthy? Cajun sausage can be high in fat and sodium. Pair it with veggies for a healthier meal. Consider using turkey sausage for a lighter option. Nutrition facts for this recipe: calories, protein, and carbs One serving has about 450 calories, 20 grams of protein, and 45 grams of carbs. These numbers may vary based on specific brands used. Always check labels for accuracy. This blog post covered how to make delicious Cajun sausage and rice. I shared the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for the best flavor. You can alter the dish with different proteins or make it vegan. Proper storage and reheating tips ensure you enjoy leftovers safely. Remember, this dish is versatile and can fit many diets. With the right ingredients and techniques, you'll create a tasty meal easy enough for any cook. Happy cooking!

One-Pot Cajun Sausage & Rice

Experience the bold flavors of our Spicy One-Pot Cajun Sausage & Rice Delight that brings the taste of the South right to your kitchen! This easy recipe features hearty sausage, aromatic veggies, and perfectly cooked rice, all simmered together for maximum flavor. Perfect for busy nights, it’s simple yet satisfying. Click to explore this delicious recipe and impress your family with a comforting Cajun dish tonight!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound Cajun or andouille sausage, sliced into rounds

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 cup long-grain rice

4 cups chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.

    Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook until browned on both sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside on a plate.

      In the same pot, toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

        Add the minced garlic and stir well, cooking for an additional minute until the garlic is aromatic.

          Introduce the rice to the sautéed vegetables, stirring continuously for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice and coat it with the flavors.

            Gradually pour in the chicken broth and add the undrained diced tomatoes along with their juices. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything to combine thoroughly.

              Raise the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling simmer, then return the browned sausage to the pot.

                Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it cook undisturbed for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom.

                  After cooking, take the pot off the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

                    Using a fork, fluff the rice gently to separate the grains. Finally, garnish the dish with sliced green onions and freshly chopped parsley before serving.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4

                        - Presentation Tips: Serve in deep bowls for a rustic look, and consider adding a wedge of lemon on the side for a zesty finish. Adjust garnishes for individual servings for added visual flair!