Shrimp and Sausage : This recipe is a flavor-packed, one-pan wonder that brings together the smoky richness of sausage and the tender, juicy sweetness of shrimp. Infused with bold spices and vibrant seasonings, it’s a quick and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal.
Why Shrimp and Sausage Work So Well Together
Shrimp and sausage are a popular pairing in many cuisines, especially in the Southern United States, where they make appearances in classic dishes like gumbo and jambalaya. The smoky, savory notes of sausage pair beautifully with the sweet, briny taste of shrimp, creating a flavor balance that’s both hearty and fresh.
- Texture Contrast: The juicy bite of shrimp contrasts with the firm, chewy texture of sausage, making every bite exciting.
- Quick Cooking: Shrimp cooks quickly, as does pre-cooked or smoked sausage, making them a convenient choice for fast meals.
- Versatility: Both shrimp and sausage can be cooked in a variety of methods—grilling, sautéing, baking, or simmering.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Shrimp and Sausage Dishes
- Choosing the Sausage: Opt for a smoky, pre-cooked sausage like andouille or smoked chorizo for the best flavor. If you prefer something milder, kielbasa works well, too.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks fast! Overcooking makes them rubbery, so remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Add Layers of Flavor: Use a mix of spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne for a smoky, slightly spicy profile.
- Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: Frozen shrimp are often just as good as fresh, especially if you’re buying from a trusted source. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Popular Variations on Shrimp and Sausage
This shrimp and sausage combo can be transformed in countless ways to suit different flavors and meal types:
- Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya: This Louisiana classic uses rice, bell peppers, celery, and a mix of Creole seasonings. Cook the rice with the sausage and shrimp for a complete one-pot meal.
- Shrimp and Sausage Pasta: Pair the shrimp and sausage with fettuccine or penne, adding a creamy tomato sauce or garlic butter sauce for a comforting pasta dish.
- Shrimp and Sausage Sheet Pan Bake: Mix shrimp, sausage, baby potatoes, and veggies on a sheet pan with olive oil and spices. Bake until everything is roasted and tender for a hands-off dinner.
- Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo: In this classic Southern stew, shrimp and sausage come together in a rich, flavorful broth thickened with a roux, and served with rice.
- Low-Carb Shrimp and Sausage Skillet: If you’re watching carbs, try a shrimp and sausage skillet with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
How to Serve Shrimp and Sausage
Shrimp and Sausage can be enjoyed on their own or served alongside various sides. Here are some great options:
- Over Rice: Classic white rice or Cajun-seasoned rice soaks up the flavors beautifully.
- With Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping into any leftover sauces in the pan.
- On Pasta: Creamy pastas pair well with the bold flavors of sausage and shrimp.
- With a Fresh Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Shrimp and sausage dishes are great for meal prep and can be stored for up to three days in the refrigerator.
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months. Note that shrimp may lose some texture after freezing.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly. Be careful not to overheat, especially with shrimp, to avoid rubbery texture.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use raw sausage instead of smoked sausage?
Yes! If using raw sausage, cook it thoroughly in the skillet before adding the other ingredients. Smoked sausage is pre-cooked, but raw sausage will need extra time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Absolutely! Add extra cayenne pepper, or use hot varieties of sausage like spicy andouille for an extra kick.
What vegetables work well with shrimp and sausage?
Bell peppers, onions, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes are all great options. They add color and complement the flavors without overpowering the main ingredients.
Do I need to remove the shrimp tails?
This is up to personal preference. Leaving the tails on adds flavor to the dish, but if you prefer easy eating, remove the tails before cooking.
Can I make shrimp and sausage in the oven?
Yes! You can make a sheet-pan version of this dish by combining shrimp, sausage, and vegetables on a baking sheet. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and the sausage is hot.
Shrimp and Sausage
Shrimp and Sausage : This recipe is a flavor-packed, one-pan wonder that brings together the smoky richness of sausage and the tender, juicy sweetness of shrimp. Infused with bold spices and vibrant seasonings, it’s a quick and easy dish perfect for weeknight dinners or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. baby red potatoes (cut into 1-inch pieces)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp each: dried parsley, dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp each: garlic powder, seasoned salt
- 1 tsp paprika (plus 1/4 tsp cayenne for heat if you like)
- 1 lb extra-large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 14 oz smoked sausage, sliced into coins
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (1 red, 1 green)
- 1-1/2 cups frozen or canned corn
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly spray a large sheet pan with nonstick spray. Wash, dry, and cut potatoes into 1-inch pieces, then add them to the pan.
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, olive oil, garlic, parsley, oregano, garlic powder, seasoned salt, paprika, and optional cayenne. Reserve 2 tablespoons of this mix and coat the potatoes. Spread out evenly and bake for 15 minutes.
- Pat shrimp dry. Toss shrimp in a bowl with 2.5 tablespoons of the butter-herb mix and set aside.
- Slice sausage, dice onion, chop peppers, and measure out corn. Let frozen corn stand to thaw if using.
- After 15 minutes, toss potatoes, push to one side of the pan, and add sausage, onion, and peppers to the other side.
- Coat with remaining butter mix, spread out, and bake for another 15 minutes, then toss and bake an additional 8 minutes.
- Add shrimp and bake for 6 minutes until cooked. Top with corn and bake 1 more minute.
- Toss everything together, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy hot!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 826Total Fat 53gSaturated Fat 19gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 29gCholesterol 330mgSodium 2178mgCarbohydrates 45gFiber 5gSugar 9gProtein 44g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and sausage are a match made in culinary heaven, offering a robust and delicious meal that can be adapted to a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re going for a quick skillet, a hearty jambalaya, or a creamy pasta, this combination is endlessly satisfying. Try experimenting with different types of sausage and spices to make the dish uniquely yours, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones for a meal worth savoring.
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