One-Pan Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that combines succulent shrimp with smoky sausage and fresh vegetables in a single skillet. This dish is inspired by Southern and Cajun cooking, where bold flavors and minimal cleanup come together for a perfect weeknight dinner. With a combination of spices, herbs, and vibrant vegetables, it delivers a balanced, protein-rich meal with minimal effort.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s easy, fast, and full of flavor. There’s minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pan, and the combination of shrimp, sausage, and vegetables creates a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it’s a complete meal in one pan. It delivers bold, smoky flavors, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked sausage, making it a crowd-pleaser. The versatility of this recipe allows for endless variations, and it’s ideal for those who love hearty, flavorful, and fuss-free meals.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes

Servings: 4 servings
Calories: Approximately 450–500 calories per serving

Course: Main Course / Skillet Meal
Cuisine: American / Cajun-Inspired

Ingredients

• 400 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 250 g smoked sausage, sliced into ½-inch pieces
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Optional Additions

• Cooked rice or quinoa for serving
• Cherry tomatoes for extra color

Cooking Directions

Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté sausage until browned. Add vegetables and garlic, cooking until slightly tender. Add shrimp and seasonings, cooking until shrimp are pink and opaque. Finish with parsley and lemon juice before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook for 4–5 minutes until browned.

Step 2: Add sliced onions and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 3: Stir in minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Step 5: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.

Step 6: Serve immediately as is or over cooked rice or quinoa.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the One-Pan Shrimp and Sausage Skillet hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon juice. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful pan juices. This dish is perfect for casual dinners or entertaining, as it looks colorful and inviting straight from the skillet.

Recipe Tips

Do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Slice sausage evenly for uniform cooking. Adjust spices to taste depending on your heat preference. Use fresh parsley at the end for a burst of color and freshness. For extra flavor, deglaze the skillet with a splash of white wine before adding the shrimp.

Variations in Detail

Swap bell peppers for zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus for a different vegetable profile. Use chicken sausage or turkey sausage for a lighter variation. Add cooked pasta instead of rice for a one-pan pasta meal. For a spicier version, increase the cayenne pepper or add red pepper flakes. You can also add a touch of cream or coconut milk for a richer, saucier skillet.

Freezing and Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent shrimp from overcooking. Freezing is not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery and vegetables lose texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Spatula or tongs
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring spoons

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely before cooking for best results.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, cook sausage and vegetables in advance, then add shrimp at the last minute to keep them tender.

What type of sausage works best?
Smoked or Andouille sausage works well, but you can use any sausage of your choice.

Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild heat from smoked paprika and optional cayenne, but you can adjust according to preference.

Conclusion

One-Pan Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is a flavorful, colorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, tender vegetables, and bold seasonings, it delivers a complete and hearty dish in minimal time. Easy to prepare, versatile, and visually appealing, this skillet recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.