Skillet Jambalaya

Skillet Jambalaya: A Flavorful Southern Classic

Skillet Jambalaya is one of those recipes that brings the heart and soul of Southern cooking right to your kitchen.

Filled with savory smoked sausage, succulent shrimp, and the vibrant flavors of Cajun seasoning, this dish is a celebration of bold ingredients combined in one pot.

Perfect for cozy family dinners or a fun gathering with friends, this delightful one-pan meal packs a punch of flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious dish in no time!

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 900mg

Why I Love This Skillet Jambalaya

This Skillet Jambalaya is special to me because it effortlessly combines comfort and flavor in a way that’s both satisfying and easy to make. The combination of smoky sausage and plump shrimp creates a delicious contrast, while the Cajun seasoning gives it that authentic kick.

I love how versatile it is; whether it’s a casual weeknight or a festive dinner party, this dish always impresses. Plus, who doesn’t love a hearty meal that comes together in just one skillet? It’s fun to make and even more fun to share.

Ingredients

• 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

How to Make Skillet Jambalaya

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

In a large skillet, cook the sliced sausage over medium heat until browned, about 5–7 minutes. This step enhances the sausage’s flavor and provides a delicious base for the rest of the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 3–5 minutes. The aroma of these sautéed veggies is simply irresistible!

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all the flavors before it simmers.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the flavors.

Step 5: Add the Shrimp

Fold in the shrimp and cook for another 5 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through. This is when the dish starts to look vibrant and beautiful!

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Garnish the Jambalaya with sliced green onions for a fresh touch and serve hot. This dish looks as good as it tastes!

Tips & Variations

• Use andouille sausage for a spicier kick or chicken sausage for a healthier option.
• For added depth, consider adding a bay leaf while simmering.
• If you love heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some hot sauce.
• Serve with a side of cornbread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Delicious Variations

• Seafood Paella: A Spanish dish with a similar concept but often includes a variety of seafood and saffron.
• Chicken and Rice: A comforting dish featuring chicken cooked with rice and spices for a different vibe.
• Shrimp Fried Rice: Use leftover Jambalaya to create a delicious fried rice dish for a delicious twist.
• Gumbo: A classic Louisiana stew that offers deep flavors with a variety of meats and vegetables.

Serving Suggestions for Skillet Jambalaya

Serve your Skillet Jambalaya piping hot right from the skillet for a family-style meal. Plate it up in bowls and offer some crusty bread or cornbread on the side to soak up all those tasty juices. Pair it with a refreshing sweet tea or a crisp white wine to balance the flavors. For a perfect complement, try serving it alongside a fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover Skillet Jambalaya in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you’d like to save some for later, this dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. You can reheat it on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Helpful Questions

1. Can I use instant rice instead of long-grain rice?
   Yes, but you’ll need to adjust cooking times. Follow the directions on the rice package.

2. What can I substitute for shrimp?
   You can use chicken pieces or omit the meat altogether for a vegetarian-friendly version.

3. How do I know when the shrimp is done?
   The shrimp should turn pink and opaque; this usually takes about 5 minutes after adding.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

5. Is this dish spicy?
   It has a mild spice from the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the heat level by adding more or less to suit your taste.

Enjoy making and sharing this flavorful Skillet Jambalaya with your loved ones!

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