Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo

Name: Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: Shrimp (fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined); Smoked sausage (preferably Andouille); Onion; Bell peppers (green and red); Celery; Garlic; Canned diced tomatoes; Chicken broth; Cajun seasoning; Bay leaves; Green onions (for garnish); Rice (for serving)

Published: February 26, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This flavorful gumbo comes together quickly for busy weeknights
You’ll love how the spices create a warm hug in every bite
Its eye-catching colors make it perfect for entertaining guests
Versatile enough to be served over rice or enjoyed on its own!

Sharing this dish always brings smiles from family and friends who can’t get enough!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp; ensure they are peeled and deveined for easy cooking.
Smoked Sausage: Look for high-quality smoked sausage; it adds depth with its smoky flavor.
Onion: A medium onion works well; it provides sweetness as it caramelizes.
Bell Peppers: Use a mix of green and red bell peppers for color and sweetness.
Celery: Chopped celery adds crunch; it’s essential in the classic Cajun trinity.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with aromatic goodness.
Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes work perfectly here; they add acidity to balance flavors.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while enhancing richness.
Cajun Seasoning: A blend of spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and oregano brings the heat!
Bay Leaves: These add an earthy aroma during cooking but remember to remove them before serving!
Green Onions: Sliced green onions add freshness as a garnish at the end.
Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice for added texture.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Create Your Roux: In a large pot over medium heat, melt ½ cup of vegetable oil and whisk in ½ cup of flour. Stir continuously until golden brown—this creates flavor magic!

Add Your Veggies: Toss in chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery (the holy trinity) once your roux reaches that beautiful brown hue. Cook until softened—your kitchen will smell divine!

Add Garlic & Spice It Up: Stir in minced garlic along with your Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant—the spice will brighten your day (and dinner)!

Incorporate Broth & Tomatoes: Slowly pour in 6 cups of chicken broth along with 1 can of diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a rolling boil while stirring occasionally—watch those flavors mingle!

Add Your Proteins: Reduce heat and add in sliced smoked sausage followed by shrimp after simmering for about 20 minutes. Cook until shrimp is pink and plump—just a few minutes should do!

Savor & Serve: Remove bay leaves before serving over cooked rice. Garnish with sliced green onions for an extra pop of color—enjoy every spoonful!

This recipe captures the heart of Southern cooking while being simple enough to whip up any time you crave comfort food. Enjoy sharing it with loved ones—it’s bound to become their favorite too!

You Must Know

Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo is a comforting dish packed with flavor
Use fresh ingredients for the best taste, and don’t rush the cooking process to allow flavors to develop fully
The aroma of gumbo simmering fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by making a dark roux, followed by adding vegetables, then proteins, and finally broth to simmer. This sequence maximizes flavor and ensures everything cooks evenly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or add okra for extra texture. Experiment with spices like cayenne or smoked paprika to tailor the heat level to your liking.

Storing & Reheating

Store gumbo in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Chef's Helpful Tips

When making Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo, remember that patience is key; let it simmer longer for deeper flavors
Fresh herbs elevate the dish beautifully, so don’t skip them!
Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly

Creating Louisiana Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo always brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed alongside the bubbling pot on the stove.

FAQ

What type of sausage works best for gumbo?

Andouille sausage adds a smoky flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.

Can I make gumbo ahead of time?

Absolutely! Gumbo tastes even better the next day after flavors meld together.

Is gumbo spicy?

It can be! Adjust cayenne pepper based on your spice preference for a milder taste.

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