Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
Ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into rounds
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 1 bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or cauliflower rice (for serving)
Instructions:
Season Shrimp and Sausage:
- Prep Shrimp and Sausage:
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the shrimp and sliced sausage with Cajun seasoning, paprika, dried thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Ensure they are well coated.
Cook Shrimp and Sausage:
- Heat Olive Oil:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Sear Shrimp and Sausage:
- Add the seasoned shrimp and sausage to the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and the sausage slices develop a nice crust. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Vegetables:
- Sauté Onion and Bell Pepper:
- In the same skillet, add thinly sliced onion and bell pepper. Sauté until they become tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic:
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Create Sauce:
- Combine Tomatoes and Broth:
- Stir in drained diced tomatoes and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Simmer Sauce:
- Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Finish and Serve:
- Add Shrimp and Sausage Back:
- Return the seared shrimp and sausage back to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp and sausage in the flavorful sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet with chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve Hot:
- Serve the dish over cooked rice or cauliflower rice. Enjoy the Cajun flavors!
Notes:
- Adjust Heat: Control the spice level by adjusting the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning.
- Vegetable Variation: Feel free to add other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, okra, or spinach for extra freshness and color.
This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is a delicious and quick meal that brings the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine to your table. The combination of juicy shrimp, savory sausage, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce makes it a satisfying dish!