I’ve always had a soft spot for the vibrant and bold flavors of Cajun cooking. It’s like a jazz band in your mouth—spicy, lively, and oh-so-satisfying.
This Easy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is a dish that captures that magic, bringing together juicy shrimp and smoky sausage in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. The best part?
It’s quick! Perfect for those nights when you crave something delicious but time seems to slip away like sand through your fingers.
I remember the first time I made this; the aroma was so enticing that even my neighbor commented on it (I may have shared a plate or two). This recipe is a dance of flavors—simple yet profound, much like a favorite song you can’t help but play on repeat.
Steps
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, adding avocado oil or ghee once it’s hot. Cook minced garlic for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Add sliced andouille sausage to the skillet, cooking for three to four minutes until browned on both sides.
- Introduce sliced bell peppers and onion to the skillet, seasoning with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Cook the vegetables for an additional three to four minutes until tender.
- Incorporate shrimp into the skillet, tossing everything together. Cook for two to three minutes until shrimp are translucent and fully cooked.
- Remove the skillet from heat, adding lemon juice and sliced green onions. Adjust seasoning to taste, and serve immediately.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil or ghee
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 small red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small orange bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup sliced green onion
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus additional for taste)
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
FAQ
- Can I include additional vegetables in the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet?
- Absolutely! You can enhance this dish by adding extra vegetables such as asparagus, mushrooms, zucchini, yellow squash, tomatoes, or kale.
- What sides pair well with the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet?
- This dish pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice, white rice, or gluten-free pasta. You might also consider serving it with roasted veggies or a large salad. Some great side options include roasted sweet potatoes, lemon garlic broccoli, or crispy baked potato wedges.
- How can I prevent overcooking the shrimp in this recipe?
- Shrimp cook very quickly, typically needing only two to three minutes. To avoid overcooking, watch for the shrimp to turn translucent. Once they reach this stage, they are ready to eat.
- Is it possible to adjust the seasoning in the skillet?
- Yes, feel free to customize the seasoning to your taste. You can add more cajun seasoning if you prefer a spicier dish.
- What type of sausage is recommended for this recipe?
- The recipe suggests using andouille sausage for its flavorful cajun profile, but you can substitute it with either pork or chicken sausage if preferred.
Tips
- To ensure even cooking, slice the bell peppers uniformly. This will help them cook at the same rate and maintain a pleasant texture.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they only require two to three minutes to cook through. Once they turn translucent, they’re ready to enjoy.
- Customize the level of spice by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your taste. A little extra seasoning can enhance the dish’s flavor.
- Consider adding additional vegetables such as asparagus, zucchini, or mushrooms for more variety and nutrition in your one-skillet meal.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Sharp Knife
- Cutting Board