This smothered shrimp and sausage dish is a big bowl of comfort. It’s filled with juicy shrimp, savory sausage, and a rich sauce that makes every bite tasty and satisfying!
Cooking this meal always brings a smile to my face. It’s like a hug in a bowl! I love serving it over rice—perfect for soaking up all that delicious sauce! 🍚
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works great, but if you’re allergic or prefer not to use seafood, chicken or plant-based protein can also be a nice substitute.
Smoked Sausage: I love using andouille sausage for its spicy kick. If you want to lighten things up, turkey sausage is an excellent option too. Alternatively, vegetarian sausage can easily be used!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, try coconut milk or cashew cream. They’ll still give you that creamy texture without the dairy.
Spices: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level. You can also add some Cajun seasoning for a different flavor twist if you have some on hand!
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they can easily become tough if overcooked. Here’s how to nail it:
- Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking. It helps them cook quickly and evenly.
- Watch closely: shrimp should only take about 3-5 minutes to turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the heat once they’re done.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them beforehand for consistent cooking. Pat them dry to avoid extra water in the pan.
Follow these tips for succulent shrimp every time! Enjoy your dish and happy cooking!
Smothered Shrimp and Sausage Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb (225g) smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, plus more for garnish
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, totaling around 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté these veggies until they are softened, around 4-5 minutes. The aroma will be delightful!
3. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute until it’s fragrant. This will really enhance the flavor!
4. Mix in the Spices and Tomatoes:
Now, stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Allow this mixture to cook for 2-3 minutes so all the flavors meld together.
5. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it reduce slightly by cooking for about 5 minutes.
6. Add Cream and Sausage:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Return the browned sausage to the skillet and mix everything together well.
7. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked through.
8. Finish and Serve:
Stir in the chopped parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve the smothered shrimp and sausage hot over a bed of cooked white rice. Feel free to garnish with extra parsley!
Enjoy this rich, flavorful, and comforting dish that combines spicy sausage, tender shrimp, and a creamy, savory sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or by placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You could also use spicy sausage instead of regular smoked sausage for an extra kick!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the shrimp and then store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just reheat on low, and then add the shrimp to cook through, which will only take a few minutes.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce!
