1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all of your ingredients. Slice the sausage into rounds, dice the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic. If you’re using frozen peas, measure out half a cup. This will help streamline the cooking process since the dish comes together quickly once you begin.

2. Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the sausage is browned on both sides. The sausage will release some of its flavorful oils, which will be used to season the rice and vegetables as they cook.

Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the pan and set it aside on a plate. This step allows the sausage to retain its texture and prevents it from overcooking while you prepare the rest of the dish.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and become fragrant. This step is crucial for building a flavorful base for the dish. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to let it burn.

If you’re using optional add-ins like celery, toss it in with the onions and peppers to soften and release its flavor.

4. Add the Rice and Seasonings

Once the vegetables are softened, add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat the rice in the oil and vegetable mixture. Toasting the rice for 1-2 minutes in the skillet helps it absorb more of the flavors from the sausage and seasonings.

Next, add the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to combine everything evenly. The spices will coat the rice and vegetables, giving the dish its signature bold flavor.

5. Simmer the Rice

Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes, then bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir to ensure that the rice is evenly distributed in the liquid. Once the broth is simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the rice cook for about 15-20 minutes.

Check the rice after 10 minutes, and if needed, add a little extra broth or water if it starts to look dry. If you’re using brown rice, it may take a few extra minutes to cook, so check the package instructions for timing.

6. Add the Sausage and Peas

Once the rice is almost fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed, return the cooked sausage to the skillet, along with the frozen peas (if using). Stir to combine and let everything cook together for an additional 5 minutes, or until the sausage is heated through and the peas are warmed.

The peas add a pop of color and a slight sweetness to balance the savory flavors of the sausage and spices.

7. Taste and Adjust Seasonings

Give the dish a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed. If you like extra heat, this is the time to add a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes to the dish. The dish should have a nice balance of savory, smoky, and spicy flavors.

8. Garnish and Serve

Once everything is cooked and seasoned to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve the Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet hot with lemon wedges on the side for a bit of citrusy brightness.