Name: Sausage Jambalaya Recipe
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb sausage (cut into pieces); 2 cups of rice (dry); 8 oz frozen corn; 8 oz frozen peas; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 onion (chopped); 1 jar (14 oz tomato puree); 1 tbsp Cajun or Creole seasoning; 1 tbsp oil

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This sausage jambalaya recipe is a game-changer for busy home cooks! Packed with bold Cajun flavors, tender sausage, and hearty rice, this dish is as simple to make as it is delicious. Using easy-to-find ingredients like frozen veggies, pantry staples, and your favorite sausage, it comes together in just 30 minutes for a quick, flavorful dinner the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love Sausage Jambalaya

Bursting with Flavor: The combination of Cajun seasoning, tender sausage, and tomato-based sauce creates a mouthwatering dish that’s full of bold, savory flavors.
Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for weeknight dinners or when you’re short on time.
One-Pot Meal: With protein, veggies, and rice all in one pan, you don’t need to worry about making multiple side dishes. It’s a complete meal!
Customizable: You can swap the veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste preferences, making it adaptable for different diets or picky eaters.
Great for Meal Prep: This jambalaya reheats beautifully, so it’s ideal for leftovers or prepping meals ahead for the week.

This jambalaya recipe is very easy, and you can get all the ingredients in advance. I like to save this recipe for the end of the week, when it’s almost time to go grocery shopping. The only item that’s not always on hand is the sausage – the rest of the stuff is from the pantry and freezer. Jambalaya is a one-dish meal, so the whole dinner is ready at once!

Ingredients for Sausage Jambalaya

Sausage – Adds hearty protein and rich flavor to the dish. Use your favorite type, like smoked or spicy sausage.
Rice – The base of the jambalaya that soaks up all the delicious flavors. White rice works best for this recipe.
Frozen Corn and Peas – These add sweetness and a pop of color to the dish while keeping things simple.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds depth and aromatic flavor.
Onion – A classic base ingredient that enhances the overall taste of the jambalaya.
Tomato Puree – Creates a rich and flavorful sauce that ties everything together.
Cajun or Creole Seasoning – The star of the dish, providing the signature spicy, smoky flavor of jambalaya.
Oil – Used to sauté the onion and sausage for added flavor and cooking ease.

For the exact measurements, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.

Kitchen Tools You Need to Make Sausage Jambalaya

Non-Stick Frying Pan – For cooking the sausage, onions, and blending all the ingredients together.
Rice Cooker or Pot – Makes cooking rice easy and hands-free.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – Ensures accurate measurements for ingredients like rice, oil, and seasonings.
Knife and Cutting Board – For chopping the sausage, onion, and garlic efficiently.

How to Make Sausage Jambalaya

Cook the rice according to the package instructions or in a rice cooker for an easy, hands-off option.
While the rice cooks, defrost the frozen corn and peas in the microwave.
Heat some oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Sauté the chopped onion for a few minutes until softened.
Add the sausage pieces to the pan and cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
Stir in minced garlic and Cajun seasoning, letting it cook briefly to release its aroma.
Pour in the tomato puree and simmer the mixture for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Mix in the defrosted vegetables and cooked rice. Stir everything until evenly combined.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your sausage jambalaya with a side of Perfectly Crispy Frozen Breadsticks in Air Fryer to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Add a fresh Green Salad with Lettuce, Tomato, and Parmesan with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory jambalaya.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top for a pop of color and added freshness.
Pair this dish with a glass of Refreshing Hibiscus Iced Tea with Fruit – No Sugar Added or Homemade Fresh Lemonade for a complete Southern-inspired meal.
For extra spice, serve with a side of Homemade Sriracha Chili Sauce or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Tips for Success

Cook the Rice Ahead of Time: If you’re short on time, cook the rice earlier in the day or even the night before. Using leftover rice also works perfectly for this recipe.
Choose the Right Sausage: Smoked sausage, Andouille, or even spicy Italian sausage can be used based on your flavor preference. Be sure to slice it into even pieces for consistent cooking.
Defrost the Vegetables Properly: Microwave the frozen peas and corn until fully defrosted but not overcooked. This helps them maintain their texture in the jambalaya.
Don’t Skimp on Seasoning: Cajun or Creole seasoning is essential for the bold flavors in jambalaya. Start with one tablespoon, but feel free to add more if you like extra heat or spice.
Simmer the Tomato Puree: Cooking the tomato puree with the garlic and seasoning for a few minutes enhances its depth of flavor, making the dish more robust.
Adjust to Taste: After mixing everything together, taste the jambalaya and add more salt, pepper, or seasoning as needed to suit your palate.
Use a Large Pan: This dish combines several ingredients, so a large non-stick frying pan or skillet ensures everything mixes well without spilling over.
Fresh Veggie Swaps: While frozen corn and peas are convenient, feel free to use fresh vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or mushrooms for a more customized dish.
Serve Immediately: Jambalaya tastes best hot and fresh off the stove, as the flavors are at their peak. However, leftovers reheat well, making it great for meal prep.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap the Sausage: If you don’t have sausage on hand, substitute it with diced chicken, shrimp, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist. Smoked or spicy sausage varieties will add unique flavors to the dish.
Change Up the Vegetables: Feel free to use fresh or other frozen vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, green beans, or okra to add variety and texture. Seasonal vegetables are a great option, too.
Use Brown Rice: For a healthier twist, swap white rice with brown rice. Keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so plan accordingly.
Spice Level Adjustments: If you prefer a milder dish, use less Cajun or Creole seasoning. For extra heat, add a dash of hot sauce, cayenne pepper, or sliced jalapeños.
Make it Tomato-Free: If you’re not a fan of tomato-based dishes, omit the tomato puree and use chicken or vegetable broth to create a lighter sauce.
Add Protein Variety: Mix sausage with other proteins like cooked shrimp or shredded chicken for a heartier dish. Just add the shrimp towards the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Make it Vegan: Use plant-based sausage, vegetable broth, and ensure your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain animal-derived ingredients for a delicious vegan jambalaya.
Switch the Rice for Grains: Experiment with quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice as a low-carb alternative. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the grain you choose.
Extra Garnishes: For a fresh pop of flavor, garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Transfer any leftover jambalaya to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled jambalaya in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating in the Microwave: Place a portion of jambalaya in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat on high in 1-minute increments, stirring in between, until warmed through.
Reheating on the Stovetop: Add the jambalaya to a pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally, and if needed, add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking and restore the moisture. Heat until thoroughly warmed.
Tips for Freezing: If freezing, store the jambalaya without the rice and add freshly cooked rice when reheating to preserve the texture of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sausage for this jambalaya?

Absolutely! Smoked sausage is a classic choice, but you can use Andouille sausage for a more traditional Cajun flavor. Spicy Italian sausage or even chicken sausage works well, too. Feel free to pick a sausage that suits your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this jambalaya is perfect for meal prep! Cook it up to 3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. For best results, reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain its moist texture.

What kind of rice works best for jambalaya?

White rice is the best choice for this recipe as it cooks quickly and absorbs the flavors well. If you prefer a healthier option, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that it will take longer to cook.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the sausage for plant-based sausage or use chickpeas or tofu for protein. Replace the chicken broth (if using) with vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian jambalaya.

What other vegetables can I use in this recipe?

While the recipe calls for corn and peas, you can substitute or add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms, or okra. Fresh or frozen vegetables both work wonderfully in this dish.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To make the jambalaya spicier, add more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder version, use less Cajun seasoning and skip any additional hot spices.

Can I freeze jambalaya?

Yes, jambalaya freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. For best texture, consider freezing it without the rice and adding freshly cooked rice when reheating.

Why is my jambalaya too dry or sticky?

If your jambalaya turns out dry, it may need more tomato puree or broth. Add a little at a time while reheating to restore moisture. If it’s sticky, it could be due to overcooking the rice. Be sure to follow the rice package directions for the best results.

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Oven Baked Sausages and Potatoes – Tender sausages and roasted potatoes baked together for a comforting, no-fuss meal.

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