A one-pan wonder packed with bold, smoky sausage, sautéed peppers, and onions—served hot over fluffy white rice for a simple, satisfying dinner.
🍽 Servings: 4
⏱ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 20 minutes
⏲ Total Time: 30 minutes
🥘 Dietary Info: Gluten-Free (check sausage brand) | Dairy-Free
🛒 Ingredients Checklist
Smoked sausage, sliced
Green bell pepper, sliced
Yellow bell pepper (optional), sliced
Yellow onion, sliced
Olive oil or butter
Garlic powder
Black pepper
Salt
Cajun seasoning (optional for heat)
Cooked white rice (for serving)
👩🍳 Instructions
Heat the Skillet
In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil or butter.
Cook the Sausage
Add sausage slices in a single layer. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until browned and caramelized. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add sliced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and slightly charred.
Season and Combine
Return sausage to the skillet. Sprinkle with garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and Cajun seasoning (if using). Stir well to combine and coat everything in the spices.
Simmer Briefly
Cook for another 2–3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
Serve
Spoon hot sausage and pepper mixture over cooked white rice and serve immediately.
🔎 Recipe Notes
Use any sausage you like—smoked kielbasa, andouille, or turkey sausage all work well.
Add the Cajun seasoning gradually if you’re spice-sensitive.
Make it low-carb by skipping the rice and serving over sautéed cabbage or cauliflower rice.
✨ Quick Intro
This easy sausage and peppers recipe is everything a weeknight dinner should be—fast, filling, and full of flavor. Made in one skillet with minimal prep, it’s a meal that feels hearty and homey, especially when served over a bed of fluffy white rice.
Bonus: Leftovers reheat beautifully for lunch the next day.
👣 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Sear the Sausage
A golden sear adds depth and smoky flavor. Let it brown undisturbed before flipping.
Tip: Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Step 2: Sauté Veggies
Onions and peppers are ready when they start to soften and get just a hint of char.
Tip: Stir only occasionally to let those caramelized edges develop.
Step 3: Season Generously
Return sausage to the pan and season with spices. The Cajun seasoning adds bold flavor, but even just salt, pepper, and garlic do the trick.
🥄 Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Ingredient Insights
Smoked Sausage: Adds instant flavor. Choose your preferred spice level.
Bell Peppers: A colorful mix adds sweetness and visual appeal.
Cajun Seasoning: Optional, but a great way to boost flavor with one blend.
Rice: Serves as a neutral base to soak up all the delicious juices.
Substitutions
No Cajun seasoning? Use paprika + chili powder + oregano.
Low-carb option: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or serve as a lettuce wrap.
Extra protein: Add a fried egg on top for a full meal-in-a-bowl.
🍽 Serving & Pairing Ideas
Serve With:
Garlic bread or cornbread
Side salad with vinaigrette
Roasted sweet potatoes or mashed cauliflower
Drink Pairing:
Iced tea, lager beer, or a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
Make it a build-your-own bowl night and let everyone assemble their own plates with rice, sausage, and veggie toppings.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Fridge: Store in airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheat: Microwave or sauté in a skillet until heated through
Make-Ahead: Slice sausage and prep vegetables up to 2 days in advance to cut down on cook time
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use pre-cooked sausage?
A: Yes! Just slice and brown it for texture—it’s already safe to eat.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Use plant-based sausage and follow the recipe as written.
Q: What kind of rice is best?
A: Any kind works—white, brown, jasmine, or even quinoa for more texture and nutrients.
Q: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, it freezes well. Cool completely, portion into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.
📝 Final Thoughts
This sausage and peppers skillet dinner hits that perfect middle ground between hearty and easy. It’s flavorful, adaptable, and always satisfying—especially when you’re short on time but craving something bold and homey.
💬 Join the Conversation
Made this skillet sausage and peppers recipe? Let me know in the comments how you customized it—spicy, sweet, or somewhere in between. Don’t forget to tag your creations on social media too!