Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp

Name: Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: Southern Louisiana
Ingredients: 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 1/2 teaspoons Creole seasoning; 1 teaspoon olive oil; 6 oz chicken sausage (sliced); 1/2 cup chopped green peppers; 1/2 cup chopped white onions; 1/2 cup chopped celery; 2-3 garlic cloves (minced); 15.5 oz canned diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups long grain white rice (rinsed); 4 cups broth (chicken or vegetable); 1 bay leaf; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Posted on October 2, 2025

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Experience the bold flavors of Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp, a classic Southern Louisiana dish that brings together perfectly seasoned shrimp, aromatic spices, and a colorful array of vegetables. This one-pot wonder is not only hearty and delicious but also incredibly versatile, making it ideal for family dinners, special gatherings, or casual weeknight meals. The rich flavors and textures will leave your guests asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just one pot, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
Bursting with Flavor: A blend of spices and fresh ingredients ensures every bite is packed with deliciousness.
Nutritious Ingredients: Loaded with protein from shrimp and healthy veggies, this dish is as wholesome as it is tasty.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, Seafood Jambalaya fits right in.
Customizable: Feel free to add or substitute ingredients based on what you have at home for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp, having the right kitchen tools makes all the difference.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Cast iron skillet
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Why These Tools Matter

Cast iron skillet: Provides even heat distribution for better cooking results.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware while deglazing the pan.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities for consistent results.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 pound raw shrimp (Peeled and deveined)
– 1 1/2 teaspoons Creole Seasoning (Divided in 1/2 teaspoon and 1 teaspoon portions; Adjust to suit your taste.)
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 6 oz chicken sausage (Sliced into small pieces)
– 1/2 cup chopped green peppers
– 1/2 cup chopped white onions
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 2-3 garlic cloves (Minced)
– 15.5 oz canned diced tomatoes (You can also use fresh tomatoes; fire roasted recommended.)
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups long grain white rice (Rinsed)
– 4 cups broth or stock (Seafood, chicken, vegetable, etc.)
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz lump crab meat (Optional)

How to Make Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Season the shrimp with 1/2 teaspoon of Creole seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

Add the olive oil to a pan on medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for 3–5 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken Sausage

In the same pan, add the sliced chicken sausage. Cook for about 4–5 minutes until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté Vegetables

Add minced garlic, green peppers, onions, and celery to the pan. Stir until onions are fragrant.

Step 5: Incorporate Flour and Tomatoes

Stir in the flour along with diced tomatoes. Ensure everything is well coated in flour.

Step 6: Toast Rice

Add rinsed rice to the pan. Stir to toast rice slightly with flavors from previous ingredients.

Step 7: Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in broth along with cooked sausage. Deglaze by scraping any brown bits off the bottom of the pan. Add bay leaf, remaining Creole seasoning, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 8: Simmer

Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer while stirring every 6–8 minutes to prevent sticking.

Step 9: Final Touches

Once liquid is absorbed and rice is tender (about 12–20 minutes), remove bay leaf. Gently fold in shrimp and optional crab meat without stirring too hard to keep rice intact.

Step 10: Cool Before Serving

Allow your Seafood Jambalaya to cool slightly before serving it hot! Enjoy!

How to Serve Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp

Serving Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp can elevate your dining experience. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

Accompany with Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious sauce.
French Baguette: A crusty baguette pairs well and is perfect for dipping.

Pair with Salads

Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine lettuce and tangy dressing complements the richness of jambalaya.
Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and balances the spices in the dish.

Serve with Dipping Sauces

Remoulade Sauce: A zesty remoulade enhances the seafood flavors beautifully.
Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy extra heat, provide a selection of hot sauces to customize each serving.

How to Perfect Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp

Achieving the perfect Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to make your dish stand out.

Bold Seasoning: Adjust the Creole seasoning according to your taste preferences for a personalized flavor.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and seafood for the best flavor and texture in your jambalaya.
Proper Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the rice; overcooking can lead to mushiness. Aim for tender yet firm rice.
Don’t Rush Deglazing: Take time to deglaze the pan; those browned bits add incredible depth of flavor.
Fold, Don’t Stir: Gently fold in the shrimp and crab instead of stirring, which helps maintain rice texture.
Rest Before Serving: Allowing it to rest before serving lets flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp

Choosing the right side dishes can complement your Seafood Jambalaya wonderfully. Here are some delightful options that pair well.

Cornbread: Sweet and buttery cornbread adds a comforting touch alongside spicy jambalaya.
Fried Plantains: These sweet, caramelized slices provide a unique contrast that balances savory flavors.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted seasonal vegetables offer additional nutrients and vibrant colors.
Rice Pilaf: A simple rice pilaf makes for an easy yet elegant side that soaks up sauce well.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad dressed in vinaigrette refreshes the palate between bites of rich jambalaya.
Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad brings a cooling element that complements spiced dishes perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp and ensure it’s a hit at the dinner table.

Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. If left too long in the heat, it becomes rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
Skipping the seasoning: Proper seasoning is crucial. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the Creole seasoning as you go for optimal flavor.
Not using enough broth: Insufficient liquid can lead to undercooked rice. Always measure your broth accurately for perfect texture.
Stirring too much: Excessive stirring can make the rice mushy. Instead, gently fold in the seafood to keep grains intact.
Ignoring resting time: Allowing the jambalaya to rest after cooking helps flavors meld together. Don’t rush this step for better results.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp

Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes, ensuring it’s heated through.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and reheat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp?

Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp is a flavorful one-pot dish from Louisiana that combines shrimp, spices, vegetables, and rice for a hearty meal.

Can I customize my Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp?

Absolutely! You can add other seafood like fish or scallops, or incorporate different vegetables based on your preference.

How spicy is Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp?

The spice level can vary based on how much Creole seasoning you use. Adjust it according to your taste for mild or bold flavors.

What sides go well with Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp?

Consider serving it with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

Conclusion

Seafood Jambalaya with Shrimp is not only delicious but also versatile. Its rich flavors make it perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite proteins or vegetables. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of Louisiana at home!