Description
At its core, a Creamy Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet is a modern, more indulgent take on traditional rice-based dishes like jambalaya. While a standard jambalaya is often tomato-based and slightly acidic, this version leans into the richness of heavy cream and melted cheddar cheese. It is a cohesive dish where every grain of rice is coated in a savory, spiced sauce that carries the essence of the South.
Ingredients
1 tbsp olive oil
12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage (such as Andouille sausage), sliced
1 small onion, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Brown the sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook 3–4 minutes until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.Cook the vegetables
In the same skillet, add onion and bell pepper. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.Add rice and seasoning
Stir in the uncooked rice, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Cook for about 1 minute to toast the rice slightly.Simmer
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.Cook the rice
Return sausage to the skillet. Cover and cook on low heat for about 18–20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.Make it creamy
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.Serve
Taste and adjust salt/pepper. Garnish with parsley or green onions.
Notes
Serve this creamy and flavorful dish hot, topped with fresh parsley or green onions. The combination of rice, sausage, and Cajun spices makes it a hearty meal that pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun cuisine
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1¼ cups)
- Calories: ~520 kcal
Keywords: One Pan Cajun Sausage Rice, Creamy Andouille Rice Skillet, Spicy Sausage and Rice Casserole, Creamy Louisiana Sausage Rice, Cheesy Cajun Rice Skillet