Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet: A Flavorful Fusion of Louisiana Cuisine
Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Louisiana with our delectable Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet. This one-pan dish combines succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and a vibrant blend of Cajun spices, creating an aromatic and unforgettable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp and Sausage:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Holy Trinity:
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped onion
For the Cajun Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Steamed rice or crusty bread
Instructions:
Season the Shrimp and Sausage: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, sausage, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
Sauté the Shrimp and Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and sausage and cook until the shrimp are pink and curled and the sausage is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the shrimp and sausage from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Holy Trinity: Add the chopped green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and onion to the skillet. Cook until softened and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes.
Prepare the Cajun Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, heavy cream, parsley, cornstarch, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Combine the Ingredients: Return the shrimp and sausage to the skillet. Pour the Cajun sauce over the shrimp and sausage and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened and the shrimp are cooked through.
Serve: Serve the Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet over steamed rice or with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips:
- Use fresh, large shrimp: This will ensure that the shrimp are tender and juicy.
- Choose a flavorful smoked sausage: Andouille or kielbasa are both excellent options.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp will become tough and rubbery.
- Adjust the heat: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, add a little more cornstarch.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Steamed rice, crusty bread, or a side salad are all great options.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Chopped okra, corn, or zucchini can be added to the skillet for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Use different spices: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can use a combination of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Use different seafood: Instead of shrimp, you can use crawfish, crab, or scallops.
Nutritional Information:
One serving of Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet (without rice or bread) contains approximately:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25 grams
- Protein: 30 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
Conclusion:
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is a delectable and versatile dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of Louisiana cuisine. With its succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and aromatic Cajun sauce, this one-pan meal is sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or preparing a special dinner, this flavorful skillet will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.