Smothered Shrimp and Sausage is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines juicy shrimp with savory sausage in a delicious sauce. It’s perfect for those who love a kick of spice and rich flavors!
This meal is so comforting; I often pair it with rice to soak up all that yummy sauce. And let’s be real, watching the shrimp dance in the pan is quite the show! 😄
What I love most is how quick it comes together. Just sauté, mix, and serve! It’s a crowd-pleaser for sure, and you’ll feel like a kitchen superstar!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh medium shrimp are the star. If they’re not available, frozen shrimp work just as well—just remember to thaw them before cooking. For a twist, try using scallops or crab meat!
Smoked Sausage: I love using Andouille sausage for that extra smoky flavor, but you can easily swap it for chicken sausage or even turkey sausage for a lighter take.
Vegetables: The blend of onion, bell pepper, and celery is classic, but don’t hesitate to add in some chopped spinach or kale for extra greens, or use red pepper for more sweetness.
Chicken Broth: If you prefer a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works wonderfully! Just ensure it’s low-sodium if you want to control salt levels.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth, but regular paprika, chili powder, or even a bit of curry powder can be great substitutes. Adjust cayenne to your spice preference!
How Do I Get the Perfect Cook on the Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp just right is key to this dish! Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, so you’ll want to keep an eye on them.
- After adding shrimp to the skillet, cook for just 3-4 minutes. They’ll turn a lovely pink and opaque.
- Make sure to stir gently, so they cook evenly. Remove them from heat as soon as they’re done to prevent overcooking!
Remember, shrimp continues to cook in the residual heat even after you take them off the stove, so a little timing goes a long way!
Smothered Shrimp And Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook. In just about 35 minutes, you can have a delicious and hearty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Sausage:
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a large skillet or cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the sliced sausage and cook until it’s browned on both sides, which should take about 4-5 minutes. After that, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil or butter. Toss in the chopped onion, bell pepper, and celery and cook them until they become soft, about 5 minutes. This is where the flavor starts to build!
3. Add Garlic and Flour:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 1 minute until it smells amazing. Then, sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring well to combine. Cook this for 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste, stirring constantly.
4. Create the Sauce:
Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to keep it smooth and lump-free. Add in the diced tomatoes with their juice, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (to taste), thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together well.
5. Simmer the Mixture:
Bring the whole mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. This helps to meld all those fantastic flavors together!
6. Add the Sausage Back:
Return the cooked sausage to the pan, giving it a good stir to coat it with the sauce.
7. Cook the Shrimp:
Now it’s time for the shrimp! Add them to the skillet and cook just until they turn pink and opaque, which will take around 3-4 minutes. Make sure not to overcook them!
8. Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley on top.
9. Enjoy:
Serve your Smothered Shrimp and Sausage hot over cooked rice. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors, and don’t forget to soak up that delicious sauce!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp?
Yes, you can use either! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the dish.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’d like to increase the heat, simply add more cayenne pepper or include some diced fresh jalapeños or red pepper flakes during cooking. Just adjust according to your taste preference!
What Can I Substitute for Sausage?
If you’re looking for a healthier or different option, turkey sausage or chicken sausage work great as substitutes. You could also try adding smoked tofu for a vegetarian option.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
