Easy Sausage Rice Recipe (Cajun Dirty Rice) Recipe

If you’ve ever craved a comforting, hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor, you’ll absolutely love this Easy Sausage Rice Recipe (Cajun Dirty Rice) Recipe. I first stumbled upon a variation of this dish years ago, and honestly, it quickly became a family favorite in my house. The combination of seasoned sausage and aromatic spices mixed with fluffy rice just hits all the right spots—creamy, a little smoky, with a touch of heat that’s never overwhelming.

This recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something that comes together fast but doesn’t taste like it was rushed. You’ll find that making Cajun Dirty Rice this way is not only delicious but also incredibly forgiving, whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out. It’s low fuss, big on flavor, and makes fantastic leftovers, so it’s definitely worth adding to your regular rotation.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients here come together to create that classic Cajun dirty rice flavor — rich, saucy, and perfectly spiced. When you shop for the sausage, go for good quality pork sausage for the best flavor, and if you don’t have chicken stock, homemade or even vegetable broth will do just fine.

• Unsalted butter: Helps create a nice roux that gives the dish its creamy thickness without overpowering taste.
• Flour: Used to make the roux, adding body and that signature nuttiness to the sauce.
• Ground pork sausage: The star ingredient that adds bold flavor and juiciness.
• Ground cumin: Gives a warm earthiness that deepens the Cajun profile.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle bite that wakes up the dish.
• Paprika: Provides smokiness and color—smoked paprika amps it up even more.
• Chicken stock: Keeps the rice moist and adds savory depth.
• Garlic: Just three cloves bring the perfect aromatic punch.
• Cooked white rice: Best if it’s leftover or day-old rice for the ideal texture.
• Scallions (optional): Adds a fresh burst of color and mild onion flavor on top.

Variations

I love making this recipe my own by tweaking the spice levels or switching up the sausage type depending on what I have around. This is a super flexible recipe, so feel free to experiment—you might discover a version that becomes your new go-to!

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños if you like things hotter—I like that little fiery touch personally.
• Meat swaps: I’ve used spicy chorizo or even turkey sausage when I’m watching fat intake, and it still turns out delicious.
• Vegetarian twist: Skip the sausage and try using mushrooms or lentils to keep the same texture and flavor vibe.
• Extra veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers or celery while cooking the sausage for more texture and nutrients.

How to Make Easy Sausage Rice Recipe (Cajun Dirty Rice) Recipe

Step 1: Make the Roux for That Perfect Base

Start by melting the butter in a small skillet over medium heat, then whisk in the flour. Keep whisking until the mixture turns a medium to dark brown—it usually takes about 5 minutes. This step creates the roux, and trust me, it’s worth taking your time here because it adds that nutty depth you’re craving. Just make sure to stir constantly so it doesn’t burn! Set it aside once done.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage with Spices

Heat a Dutch oven or a thick-bottom skillet over medium. Toss in the ground pork sausage with cumin, black pepper, and paprika. Let the sausage get a nice sear on it, breaking it up as you go. When bits stick to the pan, that’s a good thing — it means flavor is cooking in! Those browned bits are what make the dish sing.

Step 3: Deglaze and Build Flavor

Pour half of your chicken stock into the pan and scrape up all the tasty browned bits with a wooden spoon. This process, called deglazing, brings in extra flavor and prevents anything from burning. Once the pan is deglazed, stir in the garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant but not burned.

Step 4: Combine Roux and Simmer

Mix the roux into the sausage mixture and stir to combine. Cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, gradually adding the remaining chicken stock so your pan doesn’t dry out, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer lets all the flavors marry beautifully into a creamy, rich base.

Step 5: Stir in the Rice and Finish

Finally, fold in the cooked white rice. Heat everything through, making sure the rice soaks up all that sauce without getting mushy. I recommend using leftover rice here—it holds up better and doesn’t clump. When it’s ready, garnish with thinly sliced scallions for a pop of freshness and color, if you like.

How to Serve Easy Sausage Rice Recipe (Cajun Dirty Rice) Recipe

Garnishes

I love sprinkling chopped scallions on top—they add a beautiful green color and a subtle sharpness that brightens up this rich dish. Sometimes I add a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lime to cut through the richness, and it tastes amazing every time.

Side Dishes

This easy sausage rice pairs perfectly with steamed or roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans. I also enjoy serving it with a crisp green salad to balance the heaviness. If you want to make it a full Cajun feast, try some cornbread on the side or a simple coleslaw.

Creative Ways to Present

For dinner parties, I’ve served this Cajun Dirty Rice stuffed into roasted bell peppers or alongside blackened shrimp on a nice platter. It’s also fantastic wrapped in lettuce cups for a fun appetizer vibe. Playing with presentation makes this humble dish feel a little fancy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I always store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and it keeps beautifully for up to 4 days. The flavors actually meld more overnight, so I often find the next day’s meal is even better. Just make sure to bring it back up to temperature thoroughly before eating.

Freezing

Freezing this dish works well too. I portion it into freezer-safe containers and label them with the date. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, though you can reheat from frozen in a pinch.

Reheating

To reheat, I like to warm the rice gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Stir often to heat evenly. The microwave works fine too—just cover and add a little moisture to keep it from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Sausage Rice Recipe (Cajun Dirty Rice) Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s one of those dishes that always feels like a warm hug on a plate. Its balance of bold flavors, ease of preparation, and adaptability make it a winner every single time. If you’re looking for a new kind of comfort food that’s easy to make but impressive to eat, I wholeheartedly recommend giving this recipe a try—you’ll love how it turns out and likely want to make it again and again!

Print