Delicious Shrimp and Sausage Recipes You Need to Try

Shrimp and sausage recipes are a match made in culinary heaven, combining the tender, succulent texture of shrimp with the smoky, savory richness of sausage. This dynamic duo lends itself to a variety of dishes—from one-pan wonders to creamy pastas and hearty rice-based meals. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to serve guests, shrimp and sausage deliver bold flavors with minimal effort.

The versatility of these ingredients makes them a favorite for home cooks. Shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully, while sausage adds depth and complexity to any dish. With the right blend of spices, vegetables, and grains, you can create meals that are both satisfying and exciting. In this guide, we’ll explore a range of shrimp and sausage recipes, along with tips and techniques to help you master this flavorful combination. From classic Creole jambalaya to creative sheet pan dinners, these recipes are sure to become staples in your meal rotation.

Explore versatile options such as Cajun Wings for a zesty kick or pair your shrimp dishes with some unique sides like Pickled Cucumber Salad.

Essential Ingredients for Shrimp and Sausage recipes

Creating delicious shrimp and sausage recipes begins with choosing the right ingredients. Here are the staples that make these dishes flavorful and irresistible:

1. Shrimp: Use fresh shrimp when possible for a succulent texture, or frozen shrimp for convenience. Always ensure the shrimp is deveined and properly thawed before cooking. A pound of medium-size shrimp typically works well for most recipes.

2. Sausage: The type of sausage can dramatically alter the flavor profile. Andouille sausage is a classic choice for Cajun dishes, while chicken sausage or smoked sausage works beautifully in lighter recipes.

3. Vegetables: Bell peppers (green, yellow, and red), yellow squash, green beans, and onions (yellow or green onions) add color and texture. Diced tomatoes and tomato paste are essential for Creole-inspired dishes.

4. Seasonings: Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and a touch of cayenne pepper are must-haves. For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes.

5. Fats: Olive oil, unsalted butter, or a combination ensures rich, balanced flavors.

6. Grains: Serve your dishes over jasmine rice, white rice, or a bed of cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet: A Southern Delight

A Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The dish bursts with Cajun flavor and requires minimal prep and cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 8 ounces smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
2. Sauté sausage slices for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Add onions, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes until tender.
4. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt, and cayenne pepper. Add to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Return sausage to the skillet and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
6. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Sausage Pasta

This creamy garlic shrimp and sausage pasta is a comfort food favorite with a luxurious sauce.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp
• 8 ounces andouille sausage
• 12 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta in a pot of salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a skillet, heat butter over medium heat. Cook sausage until browned, then remove and set aside.
3. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
5. Add shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes until pink.
6. Toss in pasta and sausage, adding reserved pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Shrimp and Sausage Sheet Pan Dinner with Vegetables

Sheet pan dinners are ideal for meal prep and require minimal cleanup.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound raw shrimp
• 8 ounces kielbasa sausage, sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Toss shrimp, sausage, and vegetables with olive oil and seasonings in a large bowl.
3. Spread mixture evenly on the baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway, until shrimp are pink and vegetables are tender.
5. Serve as-is or over rice for a complete meal.

Spicy Shrimp and Sausage Tacos: A Flavorful Twist

These tacos bring a zesty twist with spicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and fresh toppings.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 6 ounces cooked sausage, sliced into bite-size pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, avocado slices, and sour cream

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned.
2. Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning and chili powder. Cook in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave.
4. Assemble tacos by layering shrimp, sausage, and toppings. Drizzle with sour cream and serve.

Shrimp and Sausage Jambalaya: A Classic Creole Comfort

Jambalaya is a beloved Creole dish that combines shrimp, sausage, rice, and bold spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp
• 8 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

Instructions:

1. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown sausage and set aside.
2. Cook onions, bell peppers, and garlic until softened.
3. Stir in rice, broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, and Cajun seasoning. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Add shrimp and sausage, cooking for 5-7 minutes until shrimp are done.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Tips for Meal Prepping Shrimp and Sausage Meals

Meal prepping is an excellent way to save time during the week while ensuring you have flavorful, healthy meals ready to go. Here are some expanded tips to help you prepare shrimp and sausage dishes effortlessly:

1. Thaw Shrimp Effectively: Frozen shrimp is a convenient option but needs proper thawing. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes, changing the water once to speed up the process. This method prevents the shrimp from becoming mushy, ensuring a firm and tender texture.
2. Slice Sausage Ahead: Pre-slice your sausage into uniform pieces (1/4-inch to 1/2-inch) and store them in airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. This makes it easy to add them directly to skillets or sheet pans without extra prep.
3. Pre-chop Vegetables: Save even more time by pre-chopping your onions, bell peppers, squash, or other vegetables. Store them in separate containers in the fridge or freeze them for long-term storage.
4. Assemble Meal Kits: Combine all ingredients for your recipes in labeled containers or bags. This way, you can grab your kit and start cooking without hunting for individual components.

Delicious Sides to Pair with Shrimp and Sausage

Pairing your shrimp and sausage recipes with the right sides enhances the flavors and completes the meal. Here are a few expanded ideas:

1. White Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Whether you prefer traditional jasmine rice or a low-carb option like cauliflower rice, these grains soak up the flavorful juices from shrimp and sausage dishes beautifully. For added flavor, cook the rice with a bay leaf and chicken broth.
2. Green Beans or Broccoli: Lightly steamed or roasted green beans and broccoli add a nutritious crunch to your meal. Toss them in olive oil, garlic powder, and a touch of black pepper for a simple yet tasty side.
3. Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a slice of sourdough is perfect for mopping up creamy sauces or spicy broths. For a special touch, spread a little garlic butter on the bread before toasting.
4. Salads: A crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette can balance the richness of shrimp and sausage dishes. Consider adding elements like cherry tomatoes, avocado slices, or croutons for added texture.

For more bread recipes, check out Sourdough Bagel Recipe.

Storing Leftovers: Maximizing Freshness and Flavor

Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay as delicious as when they were freshly cooked. Here are detailed tips:

1. Choose the Right Container: Use airtight, freezer-safe containers to keep your shrimp and sausage dishes fresh. Glass containers are excellent for reheating in the microwave or oven, while BPA-free plastic works well for freezing.
2. Refrigeration: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure the food has cooled completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation and sogginess.
3. Freezing: For long-term storage, place the leftovers in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date and freeze for up to one month. To prevent freezer burn, press out as much air as possible before sealing.
4. Reheating: Gently reheat leftovers over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth, water, or heavy cream to restore moisture and flavor as needed.

Conclusion: Embrace the Flavor Explosion

Shrimp and sausage recipes offer a delightful mix of flavors, textures, and culinary possibilities. Whether you’re crafting a quick skillet dinner, a creamy pasta dish, or a hearty jambalaya, these recipes are versatile enough for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices, vegetables, and grains to make each dish your own. Embrace the vibrant flavors and enjoy the endless creativity that shrimp and sausage bring to your table!

For more inspiration, explore the rich variety of recipes on Recipes Focus!