Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet

🌟 Introduction

This one-pan Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet is a weeknight lifesaver—spicy, smoky, and satisfying! Plump shrimp are seared with smoky sausage, then tossed with bell peppers, zucchini, and onion in a bold Cajun seasoning blend. It’s low-carb, high-protein, and pairs beautifully with rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

🕒 Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

🛒 Ingredients (4 servings)

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined

12 oz (340g) smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced into coins

2 tbsp olive oil (divided)

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

1 medium zucchini, halved and sliced

1 small red onion, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2–3 tsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice

🍳 Instructions

Prep the shrimp & veggies

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning.

Slice sausage, peppers, zucchini, and onion.

Cook the sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add sausage slices and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

Cook the shrimp

In the same skillet, add another ½ tablespoon of oil.

Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with sausage.

Cook the veggies

Add remaining oil to skillet.

Sauté onion, bell peppers, zucchini, and garlic for 4–5 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.

Season with remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Combine everything

Return shrimp and sausage to the skillet.

Toss together for 1–2 minutes to coat in seasonings and heat through.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness (optional).

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Pair with rice, quinoa, pasta, or keep it low-carb by serving over cauliflower rice.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

With carbs: Serve over white rice, brown rice, or buttered noodles.

Low-carb: Pair with cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed spinach.

Extra flavor: Drizzle with hot sauce or sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

Perfect! Let’s add some pro cooking tips and the nutrition breakdown so you get the best results from your Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet.

🔑 Tips for the Best Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet

1. Dry the shrimp well – Patting shrimp dry before seasoning helps them sear properly instead of steaming.
2. Use cast iron if possible – A cast iron skillet gives you the best char and smoky flavor.
3. Don’t overcook shrimp – Shrimp cook in just 2–3 minutes; remove as soon as they turn pink to keep them juicy.
4. Balance the spice – Store-bought Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. Start with less, then adjust to taste.
5. Veggie swaps – Add mushrooms, asparagus, broccoli, or even cherry tomatoes for variety.
6. Make it creamy – For a richer version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
7. Meal prep friendly – This skillet keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store in airtight containers and reheat gently.
8. Pairing ideas – Great over rice, quinoa, or zucchini noodles (zoodles) for a low-carb twist.

🥗 Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

(values are approximate and may vary depending on sausage brand and Cajun seasoning used)

• Calories: ~365
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: ~1050mg (depends heavily on sausage & seasoning)

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