This tasty dish combines juicy shrimp and flavorful sausage in a rich, creamy sauce. It’s perfect over rice or pasta for a filling meal that warms you right up!
Whenever I make this, my family can’t get enough of it. The mix of spices and cream makes it so comforting, it feels like a warm hug! Who wouldn’t want that? 😊
I love how quick it is to whip up; just toss everything in the pot and let it simmer. In no time, you’re enjoying a delicious meal that tastes like a restaurant favorite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is always best for this recipe, but frozen shrimp works too—just thaw them in the fridge overnight beforehand. If you’re allergic or prefer it, you can substitute with scallops or chicken pieces.
Sausage: I love using Andouille sausage for its smoky flavor. If that’s not available, kielbasa or any smoked sausage will do. For a lighter option, turkey sausage can be a good alternative.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the dish, but you can substitute it with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you want to lighten it up. Coconut cream adds a fun twist!
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but you’ll miss that smoky flavor. You can also experiment with Cajun seasoning for extra kick!
How Do I Get My Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky! Follow these tips to ensure they’re juicy and tender:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp; this helps them cook quickly.
- Cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Don’t overcook, or they might become tough!
- As soon as they’re done, remove them from the heat to prevent further cooking.
Remember, if you’re cooking raw shrimp, they should curl up in a C shape when properly cooked. This ensures you get the best texture in your dish!
Smothered Shrimp And Sausage
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or kielbasa), sliced into rounds
For the Sauce:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Creole seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in less than 40 minutes, you’ll have a comforting, flavorful meal on the table! Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat Your Pan:
Start by heating the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Wait until they’re melted and hot. This step is important for getting that nice sear on your sausage!
2. Brown the Sausage:
Add the sliced sausage to the skillet. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until it’s nicely browned. Once done, remove the sausage and set it aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
In the same skillet, toss in the finely chopped onion and green bell pepper. Sauté these for about 5 minutes, until they’re softened and aromatic.
4. Add Garlic:
Now, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for an additional minute until it smells amazing!
5. Mix In the Seasonings:
Stir in the diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme or Creole seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture cook for another 3-4 minutes so all those flavors can blend together.
6. Pour in Chicken Broth:
Add the chicken broth to your skillet, making sure to scrape any tasty bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes.
7. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Slowly stir in the heavy cream and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. This will make it rich and creamy!
8. Combine with Shrimp:
Add the browned sausage back into the skillet, then top with the shrimp. Cook everything until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked through, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
9. Taste and Adjust:
Give your dish a taste and adjust any seasoning if necessary. This is your chance to make it perfect for you!
10. Serve and Garnish:
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before you serve. Enjoy your Smothered Shrimp and Sausage hot over white rice, grits, or your favorite pasta!
This dish is sure to impress with its wonderful combination of flavors and textures. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a bowl of cold water before using them in the recipe. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Smoked Sausage?
If you don’t have smoked sausage, try using kielbasa, turkey sausage, or any other favorite smoked sausage. For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausages or omit the sausage entirely while adding more vegetables for flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to increase the heat level to your liking. Just start with a little, taste, and adjust as you go!
