One-Pot Cajun Rice and Beans

This One-Pot Cajun Rice and Beans is a hearty, flavorful dish packed with smoked sausage, beans, rice, and a blend of spices that create a comforting southern-style meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a weekend family dinner, this dish comes together in just 35 minutes and is sure to satisfy your hunger with its rich, spicy flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pot meals are always a winner, and this Cajun Rice and Beans is no exception. The smoked sausage brings a delicious depth of flavor, while the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and chili powder create the perfect blend of spice and warmth. The rice soaks up all the flavorful juices from the sausage and spices, and the addition of kidney beans adds a hearty touch to make this a complete meal. Plus, it’s easy to clean up since everything cooks in one skillet!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 12 oz fully cooked smoked Beef Sausage Link, cut into ¼-inch slices

• 1 cup onion, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon chili powder

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Pinch of red pepper flakes

• 1 ½ cups chicken stock

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (do not drain)

• 1 cup long-grain rice (Jasmine rice recommended)

• 1 (15.5 oz) can red kidney beans, drained

• Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

• Salt to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Heat the Skillet:

In a large 12-inch skillet (with a lid), heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sausage slices and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until they start to brown slightly. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Season and Combine:

Return the sausage to the skillet and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir to coat everything evenly and let the spices bloom for a minute.

4. Add Liquids and Rice:

Pour in the chicken stock, diced tomatoes (with juice), and rice. Turn the heat up slightly and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir well, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

5. Cook the Rice:

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it cook for 20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking as it may affect the rice’s texture. After 20 minutes, turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5-10 minutes.

6. Add Beans and Garnish:

Remove the lid, stir in the drained kidney beans, and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Adjust salt to taste, then serve and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6 servings

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Add some chopped bell peppers, celery, or spinach to the skillet for extra flavor and nutrition.

• Spicy Option: If you like things extra spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

• Swap Beans: Use black beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas instead of kidney beans for a different flavor.

• Rice Variations: You can use brown rice instead of white rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time since brown rice takes longer to cook.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or broth to loosen the rice and prevent it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Can I use uncooked sausage for this recipe?

Yes, you can use uncooked sausage, but be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the onions and garlic. Brown the sausage well before proceeding with the rest of the recipe.

2. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the sausage and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. You can add more beans or vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added texture and flavor.

3. Can I use a different type of rice?

You can use other rice varieties like brown rice or basmati, but keep in mind that different types of rice require different cooking times, so adjust accordingly.

4. How do I make this dish spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet to make it spicier.

5. Can I use canned sausage for this recipe?

While fresh sausage gives the best flavor, you can use canned or pre-cooked sausage if you’re in a pinch. Just be sure to heat it through thoroughly.

6. Can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or corn to the dish to make it heartier and more nutritious.

7. How can I make this dish less spicy?

To tone down the heat, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes and skip the hot sauce. You can also use a mild Cajun seasoning blend.

8. Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently before serving.

9. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the Cajun Rice and Beans for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and heat in a skillet or microwave.

10. What can I serve this dish with?

This dish is great on its own, but it pairs well with a side of cornbread, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

This One-Pot Cajun Rice and Beans is a flavorful, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy your hunger and warm you up on any occasion. Packed with smoked sausage, beans, and rice, it’s a complete meal that’s full of spice and depth. Whether you’re feeding the family or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is a guaranteed hit!

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