Cajun Shrimp Andouille-Style Rice Skillet

If you’re craving a one-pan meal that brings bold flavors and hearty satisfaction, the Cajun Shrimp Andouille-Style Rice Skillet is your next go-to dinner. This dish marries succulent shrimp with smoky turkey andouille sausage, all nestled in a bed of perfectly spiced rice and vibrant veggies. It’s the kind of recipe that tastes like it took hours but comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual weekend feasts. Plus, the combination of Cajun seasoning and paprika with a hint of cayenne pepper kicks the flavor up a notch without overwhelming the palate. Whether you’re serving a family dinner or want to impress guests with minimal effort, this skillet meal is a winner every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Ready in just about 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want big flavor without the wait.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time enjoying your meal.
• Bold, Balanced Flavors: Smoky turkey andouille sausage, tender shrimp, and Cajun spices create a harmonious medley that’s both comforting and exciting.
• Versatile and Adaptable: Easily swap out the protein or veggies to suit your preferences or pantry availability.

Ingredient List

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup turkey andouille sausage, sliced
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color you prefer)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Green onions, for garnish

Prep & Cook Tools

• Large skillet with a lid – to cook everything evenly in one pan
• Knife and cutting board – for prepping your veggies and sausage
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure proper seasoning and rice measurement
• Spoon or spatula – for stirring and mixing ingredients
• Small bowl – to toss the shrimp with seasoning before cooking

Cajun Shrimp Andouille-Style Rice Skillet: How It’s Done

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss the shrimp in a small bowl with half the Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and pepper. This will give the shrimp a flavorful coating that complements the sausage and rice.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced turkey andouille sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to avoid burning it.

Step 4: Toast the Rice and Add Spices

Stir the uncooked rice into the skillet with the veggies. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to lightly toast the rice and coat it with the flavors in the pan. Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed.

Step 6: Cook the Shrimp and Reintroduce Sausage

Once the rice is nearly done, nestle the seasoned shrimp and browned sausage slices into the rice. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and are cooked through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot straight from the pan for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• If turkey andouille sausage isn’t available, try chicken sausage with Cajun spices or a similar smoked sausage.
• Swap shrimp for scallops or firm white fish if you prefer a different seafood option.
• Use brown rice or a rice blend for a nuttier texture, adjusting the cooking time and liquid accordingly.
• Replace bell pepper with diced zucchini or mushrooms for a different vegetable profile.

Easy-to-Miss Gotchas

• Don’t skip toasting the rice in the skillet – this step builds flavor and helps keep the rice fluffy.
• Make sure to keep an eye on the liquid level; if the rice isn’t tender at 15 minutes, add a splash more broth and continue cooking.
• Be careful not to overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and become tough if left too long.
• Using a lid helps the rice steam properly, so don’t forget to cover the skillet during simmering.

Storing Tips & Timelines

This Cajun Shrimp Andouille-Style Rice Skillet stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. For best texture, avoid freezing, as the shrimp can become rubbery and the rice may dry out.

Quick Q&A

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just double-check that your Cajun seasoning and sausage are gluten-free, as some brands may contain additives. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

What if I don’t have chicken broth on hand?

You can substitute with vegetable broth or even water with a bit of extra seasoning, though broth adds more depth to the dish.

Can I prepare this ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes! Cook the recipe as directed, then cool and divide into meal prep containers. Reheat portions during the week for a quick, flavorful lunch or dinner.

How spicy is this dish?

The dish has a moderate level of heat thanks to the cayenne and Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the cayenne pepper up or down to suit your taste preferences.

Keep Cooking

• Love shrimp dishes? Try Grilled Shrimp Kabobs for a smoky, charred delight.
• Want a fragrant rice side? Whip up some Jeera Rice Cumin Rice to accompany any meal.
• Looking for a tasty appetizer? These Sausage Stuffed Mushrooms are packed with flavor and perfect for entertaining.

That’s a Wrap

This Cajun Shrimp Andouille-Style Rice Skillet is the perfect blend of savory sausage, tender shrimp, and fluffy rice all enhanced by a lively Cajun spice blend. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish that brings the spirit of Louisiana right into your kitchen. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or inviting friends over, this skillet recipe makes every meal memorable. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to dive into a bowl of comforting, spicy goodness tonight!

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