Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo

Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo

This Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo is a bold, soul-satisfying Southern classic that brings the rich flavors of Louisiana straight to your kitchen. Smoky andouille sausage, tender shrimp, and the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking—onion, celery, and bell pepper—are simmered in a deeply flavorful, slow-cooked roux-based broth.

Seasoned with Cajun spices and served over a bed of fluffy white rice, this gumbo is hearty, comforting, and loaded with authentic Creole flavor. Whether you’re serving it up for Sunday supper, game day, or a cozy night in, it’s the kind of dish that gets better with every bite—and even better the next day.

Customizable, freezer-friendly, and guaranteed to impress, this Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo is a must-make for anyone craving real Southern comfort.

Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo

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Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo is a flavorful and hearty dish that embodies the vibrant flavors of Louisiana Cajun cuisine. This comforting stew features tender shrimp, savory sausage, a rich and flavorful broth, and the "holy trinity" of vegetables (onions, celery, and bell peppers). It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening or a Mardi Gras celebration.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun, Creole
Calories: 590

Ingredients
  

  • 4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • ¼ Cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 Small Yellow Onion
  • 1 Medium Green Bell Pepper Seeds and ribs removed, chopped.
  • 1 Stalks Celery Finely Sliced
  • 12 oz Andouille sausage Sliced into 1/2 inch rounds
  • 2 Cloves Garlic Finely chopped
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Without salt
  • 1 pinch Kosher Salt To taste
  • 1 pinch Black Pepper to taste
  • 4 Cup Chicken Broth Low Sodium
  •  
    15 oz Diced Tomatoes Fire Roasted
  • 1 Bay Leaf
  • 1 lb Medium shrimp 26/30 or 31/40 is the size for medium. Peeled & deviened.
  • 3 Scallions Sliced for serving.
Optional
  • 1 White rice Pre-Cooked for serving.

Method
 

  1. The foundation of any great gumbo is the roux. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture turns a deep, dark caramel color. This will give your gumbo a rich, complex flavor.
    4 Tbsp Unsalted Butter, ¼ Cup All-Purpose Flour
  2. Add the chopped onions, bell peppers, and celery to the pot. These three vegetables are known as the "holy trinity" in Cajun and Creole cooking, and they form the flavor base of many dishes. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and fragrant. Then, add the sliced sausage to the pot. Cook until the sausage is browned, then stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
    1 Small Yellow Onion, 1 Medium Green Bell Pepper, 1 Stalks Celery, 12 oz Andouille sausage, 2 Cloves Garlic, 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning , 1 pinch Kosher Salt, 1 pinch Black Pepper
  3. Pour the chicken broth and the diced tomatoes into the pot with the vegetables and sausage. Add a bay leaf for an extra layer of flavor. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer the gumbo uncovered for about an hour, stirring occasionally. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld and deepen, and the gumbo will thicken slightly as it simmers.
    4 Cup Chicken Broth, 15 oz Diced Tomatoes, 1 Bay Leaf
  4. In the final 6 minutes of cooking, add the shrimp to the pot. Stir gently to distribute the shrimp throughout the gumbo. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque throughout, about 6 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. Taste the gumbo and adjust the seasonings if needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or hot sauce to your liking.
    1 lb Medium shrimp, 3 Scallions
  5. Stir most of the chopped scallions into the gumbo, reserving a small amount for garnish. Divide the cooked white rice among serving bowls. Ladle the flavorful gumbo over the rice, making sure to include plenty of shrimp and sausage in each serving. Top each bowl with the remaining chopped scallions. This will add a pop of color and a fresh onion flavor to the dish. Serve the gumbo immediately while it's hot.
    1 White rice, 3 Scallions

Nutrition

Serving: 12ozCalories: 590kcalCarbohydrates: 21gProtein: 46gFat: 37gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 14gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 286mgSodium: 1096mgPotassium: 983mgFiber: 3gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1919IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 151mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Ingredients:
  • Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined. If using frozen, thaw completely before adding to the gumbo.
  • Sausage: Andouille sausage is traditional, but you can use other smoked sausages like kielbasa or chorizo.
  • Roux: The roux is the foundation of gumbo. It's made with butter and flour cooked until a deep brown color.
  • Vegetables: The "holy trinity" of Cajun cooking—onions, bell peppers, and celery—is essential for flavor.
  • Broth: Use a good quality chicken or seafood broth.
  • Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness to the gumbo.
  • Seasonings: Cajun seasoning is a must, along with salt, pepper, and a bay leaf.
  • Rice: Serve the gumbo over cooked white rice.
Cooking Tips:
  • Make the Roux: Cook the roux slowly and stir constantly to prevent burning. The darker the roux, the deeper the flavor of the gumbo.
  • Don't Overcrowd the Pot: When sautéing the vegetables and sausage, avoid overcrowding the pot. This will ensure that they cook evenly and brown properly.
  • Simmer Gently: Simmer the gumbo gently to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
  • Add Shrimp Last: Add the shrimp towards the end of the cooking time to prevent overcooking.
  • Adjust Seasonings: Taste the gumbo before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed.
Serving Suggestions:
  • Garnish: Garnish with chopped scallions or fresh parsley.
  • Sides: Serve with crusty bread or potato salad.
  • Hot Sauce: Offer hot sauce on the side for those who like extra heat.
Variations:
  • Chicken and Sausage Gumbo: Add cooked chicken to the gumbo along with the sausage.
  • Seafood Gumbo: Use a variety of seafood, such as crab, oysters, or fish.
  • Vegetarian Gumbo: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add okra for thickening.
With these tips, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo that will transport your taste buds to Louisiana!

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Ingredients

  • For the Roux:

    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • For the Gumbo:

    • 1 small yellow onion, chopped
    • 1 medium green bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, chopped
    • 1 stalk celery, finely sliced
    • 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced into ½-inch rounds
    • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
    • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (without salt)
    • Pinch of kosher salt, to taste
    • Pinch of black pepper, to taste
    • 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
    • 1 (15 oz) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
    • 1 bay leaf
    • 1 lb medium shrimp (26/30 or 31/40 count), peeled and deveined
    • 3 scallions, sliced for serving
  • Optional:

    • Cooked white rice, for serving

Image Gallery Shrimp & Sausage Gumbo

Storage & Leftovers

🧊 Storage:

  • Let the gumbo cool completely before storing.

  • Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

  • Store rice separately if possible to prevent it from soaking up too much broth.

🔥 Reheating:

  • Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

  • You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals, until heated through.

  • Add a splash of broth or water if the gumbo thickens too much in the fridge.

❄️ Freezing:

  • Gumbo freezes very well!

  • Freeze in individual portions or larger batches (minus the rice) for up to 3 months.

  • Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop.

💡 Pro Tip:
If using shrimp, try to undercook them slightly before freezing—this prevents overcooking when reheating.

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Blackened Shrimp & Grits

🔥🦐 Southern-Style Blackened Shrimp & Grits 🍽️

Smoky, spicy shrimp served over rich, creamy grits—this Southern-style classic is bold, comforting, and impossible to resist.

 

🦐 Southern-Style Blackened Shrimp and Grits

Looking to bring a little Southern comfort to your table? This Southern-Style Blackened Shrimp and Grits recipe is the ultimate combination of smoky heat, creamy texture, and bold flavor. 🧈🔥 Whether you’re planning a cozy brunch, a laid-back dinner, or simply craving something rich and satisfying, this dish delivers big on taste without complicated steps.

It starts with tender shrimp, generously coated in a homemade blackened seasoning blend that’s equal parts smoky, spicy, and savory. After a quick sear in a hot skillet, the shrimp develop that crave-worthy charred crust that locks in flavor. 🦐 Meanwhile, the grits cook low and slow until they’re silky-smooth—then we stir in butter, cream, and sharp cheddar cheese for maximum comfort-food energy. 🧀

What makes this shrimp and grits recipe truly special is its balance of heat and creaminess. The spicy blackened shrimp contrast beautifully with the richness of the grits, creating a layered bite that’s both comforting and exciting. 🌶️

Even better, it comes together quickly and uses pantry-friendly ingredients, making it weeknight-friendly without sacrificing that restaurant-quality feel. Add a squeeze of lemon, a sprinkle of green onions, or even a poached egg on top—there’s plenty of room to make it your own.

So if you’re looking for a Southern-style shrimp and grits recipe that’s bold, buttery, and totally unforgettable, this one’s guaranteed to impress. Serve it hot and dig in—you’ve just found your new comfort food favorite. 🍽️

  • Why You’ll Love This Recipe

    • 🦐 Blackened Shrimp: Coated in bold Cajun spices and seared to perfection

    • 🧈 Creamy Grits: Buttery, cheesy, and ultra-smooth

    • 🌶️ Big Flavor: Spicy, smoky, and savory in every bite

    • 🧄 Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples with Southern soul

    • ⏱️ Quick to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes

    • 🍳 Versatile Meal: Perfect for brunch, dinner, or date night

    • 🧺 Comfort Food Favorite: Cozy, filling, and deeply satisfying

    • 🍋 Customizable: Add lemon, green onions, or a poached egg for a twist

👩‍🍳 How to Make Southern-Style Blackened Shrimp & Grits

Making this bold and comforting dish is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to bring Southern flavor to your table:

🔥 Step 1: Make the Blackened Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, dried thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Tip: Adjust the cayenne for more or less heat. 🌶️

🍤 Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry, then toss them in olive oil and coat with the blackened spice mix until fully covered.

🍳 Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, just until blackened and cooked through. Set aside.

🍚 Step 4: Cook the Grits

In a saucepan, bring water or chicken broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the grits and reduce to a simmer. Cook according to package instructions (usually 15–20 minutes), stirring often.

🧀 Step 5: Make Them Creamy

Once thickened, stir in butter, heavy cream (or milk), and shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

🧂 Step 6: Season to Taste

Add salt and pepper as needed. For extra richness, you can stir in a bit more butter or cheese. 😋

🍽️ Step 7: Assemble

Spoon the creamy grits into shallow bowls. Top with a generous helping of blackened shrimp.

🧑‍🍳 Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Finish with sliced green onions, a squeeze of lemon, or even a poached egg on top for extra flair. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Blackened Shrimp & Grits

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Blackened shrimp and grits is a classic Southern dish that features shrimp coated in a flavorful blend of spices and cooked over high heat until blackened, served over creamy, cheesy grits. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 44 minutes
Servings: 6 People
Course: Brunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun, Creole, Southern
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For The Grits
  • Cups Chicken Broth low sodium, divided
  • Cups Milk fat free
  • ¼ Cup Water
  • 1 tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 Cup Grits stone ground
  • ½ Tbsp Unsalted Butter
  • oz Cheddar Cheese sharp,freshly grated, divided
  • 1 Tbsp Parmesan Cheese
For the shrimp
  • ½ tsp Paprika
  • ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper
  • ½ tsp Garlic powder
  • ½ tsp Thyme Dried
  • ½ tsp Oregano
  • ¼ tsp Kosher Salt
  • 1 Olive oil spray
  • tsp Ground Black Pepper
  • 24 Jumbo Shrimp Cleaned & Deviened
  • 3 tbsp Green Onions sliced
  • 1 Small Lime cut into wedges

Method
 

Spice Mix:
  1. Combine paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and ground black pepper in a bowl.
    ½ tsp Paprika, ¼ tsp Cayenne Pepper, ½ tsp Garlic powder, ½ tsp Thyme, ½ tsp Oregano, ¼ tsp Kosher Salt, ⅛ tsp Ground Black Pepper
Shrimp:
  1. Lightly oil the shrimp and coat them generously in the spice mix.
    24 Jumbo Shrimp
Grits:
  1. Bring broth, milk, water, and salt to a boil. Slowly whisk in grits and cook, covered, for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and stir in butter, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan.
    2½ Cups Chicken Broth, 1¼ Cups Milk, ¼ Cup Water, 1 tsp Kosher Salt, 1 Cup Grits, ½ Tbsp Unsalted Butter, 1 Tbsp Parmesan Cheese
Cooking the Shrimp:
  1. Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2 minutes per side until opaque and spices are fragrant.
    1 Olive oil spray
Assembly:
  1. Divide grits among plates and top with cheddar cheese. Nestle cooked shrimp on top of grits. Deglaze the pan with broth, reduce by half, and drizzle over each plate. Garnish with scallions and serve with lime wedges.
    1½ oz Cheddar Cheese, 3 tbsp Green Onions, 1 Small Lime

Nutrition

Serving: 10ozCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 73gProtein: 29gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.1gCholesterol: 112mgSodium: 1142mgPotassium: 373mgFiber: 2gSugar: 60gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 504mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Grits:
  • Type of Grits: Stone-ground grits will take longer to cook (35-40 minutes) but have a nuttier flavor. Quick grits cook faster (5 minutes) but have a softer texture. Choose based on your preference.
  • Creamy vs. Cheesy: This recipe uses butter and cheese for creaminess. For a lighter version, omit the cheese or use less. You can also add a splash of heavy cream at the end for extra richness.
  • Adjusting Liquid: The amount of liquid needed for grits can vary depending on the type and brand. Start with the amount in the recipe and add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if the grits become too thick before they are cooked through.
Shrimp:
  • Don't overcrowd: Cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This will ensure even cooking and a nice sear on the shrimp.
  • Watch the heat: Blackened seasoning can burn easily. Keep an eye on the pan and adjust the heat as needed to prevent the spices from burning.
  • Shrimp size: Larger shrimp will take a few minutes longer to cook through than smaller shrimp. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Other Tips:
  • Deglazing: The drippings in the pan from cooking the shrimp have a lot of flavor. Deglazing with broth helps loosen them up and creates a delicious pan sauce for your dish.
  • Serving Temperature: Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy grits and the crispy shrimp.
  • Substitutions: You can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option. If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can use all cheddar cheese.

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🍽️ What to Serve with Blackened Shrimp and Grits

🥬 Fresh & Light Sides (to balance the richness)

  • Garlicky Collard Greens – Sautéed with garlic and a splash of vinegar

  • Southern-Style Green Beans – Stewed or sautéed with onions and bacon

  • Simple Arugula Salad – Light lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creamy grits

  • Grilled Asparagus or Zucchini – Adds a crisp, charred element


🍞 Breads & Starchy Add-Ons

  • Skillet Cornbread – Buttery, crumbly, and perfect for soaking up the sauce

  • Buttermilk Biscuits – Fluffy and comforting alongside creamy grits

  • Fried Green Tomatoes – A tangy, crispy contrast to the soft texture of the grits


🥂 Drink Pairings

  • Sweet Tea or Lemonade – Southern classics that balance the heat

  • Sparkling Water with Lime – Keeps the palate refreshed

  • Crisp White Wine – Try a Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay

  • Spicy Bloody Mary – Especially great if serving for brunch


🍮 Dessert Ideas to Finish the Meal

  • Peach Cobbler – Warm, fruity, and a perfect Southern finish

  • Banana Pudding – Light, creamy, and nostalgic

  • Pecan Pie Bars – A sweet bite-size option for easy cleanup

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🔥 What does “blackened” mean in this recipe?

“Blackened” refers to a cooking method where shrimp are coated in a bold spice mix—typically including paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano—then seared in a hot skillet. The high heat forms a charred, flavorful crust on the outside while keeping the shrimp juicy inside.


⏱️ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the grits ahead and reheat them with a splash of milk or broth. The shrimp are best cooked just before serving, but you can prep the spice mix and marinate the shrimp a few hours in advance.


🧈 What kind of grits should I use?

Stone-ground or quick-cooking grits both work well. Stone-ground grits offer more texture and flavor, while quick grits are great for saving time. Avoid instant grits for this recipe—they lack the creaminess needed to balance the bold shrimp.


🥶 Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning. Extra moisture can prevent them from searing properly and developing that classic blackened crust.


🌽 What goes well with shrimp and grits?

Try it with sautéed greens, skillet cornbread, or a fresh arugula salad. You can also check out our full list of what to serve with shrimp and grits for more pairing ideas.


🔄 Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes—just substitute dairy-free butter and use a plant-based milk (like oat or almond) for the grits. For the cheese, use your favorite dairy-free shredded alternative or skip it altogether for a lighter version.


🌶️ How spicy is this dish?

It’s moderately spicy, thanks to cayenne and paprika in the seasoning. You can easily adjust the heat up or down to suit your taste. For extra fire, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or serve with hot sauce on the side.

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