Description
Jambalaya is a traditional Creole dish that originated in Louisiana, known for its rich blend of rice, protein (typically shrimp, sausage, or chicken), vegetables, and a medley of spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that delivers all the flavors you crave in one satisfying meal. Jambalaya is a versatile dish that can be customized with different proteins and spice levels, making it ideal for a wide range of taste preferences.
Ingredients
Protein:
½ lb (225 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
½ lb (225 g) smoked sausage (like andouille or kielbasa), sliced
Vegetables & Aromatics:
1 tbsp olive oil (or butter)
1 medium onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
Rice & Seasoning:
1½ cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
3 cups chicken broth (or seafood stock)
1 tbsp tomato paste
1½ tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning (adjust to taste)
½ tsp smoked paprika
¼ tsp thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of cayenne for heat
To finish:
2 green onions, sliced
2 tbsp chopped parsley
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Cook sausage:
In a large pot or deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.Sauté vegetables:
In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.Add rice and seasonings:
Stir in rice, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Toast for 1–2 minutes to coat the grains and enhance flavor.Simmer:
Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.Add shrimp and sausage:
Stir the sausage back in, then place shrimp on top. Cover and cook another 5–7 minutes, until shrimp are pink and rice is tender.Finish and serve:
Fluff with a fork, then stir in green onions and parsley.
Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
This Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya is a flavorful one-pot comfort dish loaded with Cajun spices, tender shrimp, and smoky sausage. You can adjust the heat by adding more cayenne or hot sauce to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving, and pair it with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete Southern-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pot / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole / Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
Keywords: Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya, Creole Jambalaya, Easy Jambalaya Recipe, One-Pot Jambalaya, Shrimp Jambalaya with Sausage