If you’re searching for a one-pan wonder that bursts with bold flavors and satisfying textures, look no further than this Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe. It’s a vibrant medley of juicy shrimp, savory turkey kielbasa, and tender rice, perfectly infused with a mix of spices and fresh veggies. This dish pulls together a harmony of spice, sweetness, and heartiness that will quickly become a favorite for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting these straightforward yet essential ingredients ready will set you up for success. Each component brings something special: the kielbasa adds smoky richness, shrimp contributes a tender seafood touch, and the veggies brighten things up with freshness and color. The spices and broth bring everything together, making each bite a flavor-packed experience.
- 13 oz turkey kielbasa: Sliced into 1/4-inch rounds to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor release.
- 1 lb raw, deveined shrimp: Adds a succulent seafood element that cooks quickly with just a hint of sweetness.
- 2 bell peppers, diced: Provide crisp texture and vibrant color to brighten the skillet.
- 1 onion, diced: Builds depth and sweetness as it softens and caramelizes.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: Bring juicy bursts of flavor and a touch of acidity.
- 3 scallions, chopped: Fresh sharpness to finish and balance the bold flavors.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Earthy herb notes to complement the meat and veggies.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Boosts the savory base with subtle depth.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors; adjust as you go.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper: Introduces just the right amount of kick; add more for heat lovers.
- 1.5 cups raw white rice: Cooks up fluffy and soaks in the vibrant flavors of the broth.
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth: Keeps the rice moist and flavorful without overpowering the dish.
- Olive oil spray: For a light coating when browning the kielbasa and sautéing veggies.
How to Make Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Kielbasa
Start by slicing the turkey kielbasa into thin, 1/4-inch rounds to allow for even cooking and maximum flavor infusion. Heat a Dutch oven or large pot over medium-high heat, spraying it lightly with olive oil spray. Add the kielbasa to the hot pot and cook for about 10 minutes, ensuring the slices develop a beautiful brown crust. This step is key to rendering out some of the fat and creating a deep, smoky base that will flavor the entire dish.
Step 2: Add and Sauté Vegetables
Next, toss in the diced bell peppers and onion. These aromatic veggies soften as they cook, releasing sweetness and moisture that will lift the dish. Sauté everything for around 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers become tender and the onions turn translucent. Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits stuck to the pot’s bottom — those little morsels pack a lot of flavor.
Step 3: Season the Mixture
Sprinkle in the paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Stir well so all the spices coat every morsel in the pot. The smoky, earthy, and slightly spicy heat from the cayenne will bring a wonderful complexity to the sautéed veggies and kielbasa. This seasoning layer is what elevates this skillet recipe from ordinary to unforgettable.
Step 4: Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, which melt down slightly during cooking to add juicy bursts and a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the sausage. This fresh ingredient brightens the skillet, keeping each bite lively and well-rounded.
Step 5: Add Rice and Broth; Begin Simmering
Pour in the raw white rice and gently stir to coat it in the seasoned vegetable and meat mixture. Follow with the reduced sodium chicken broth, ensuring the rice is fully submerged. Bring the whole pot to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the broth’s flavor-packed liquid.
Step 6: Cook the Shrimp
Now it’s time for the star seafood addition. Nestle your raw shrimp into the pot atop the cooked rice mixture, stirring gently to distribute. Cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and just firm to the bite. This step ensures your shrimp stay juicy and don’t overcook, infusing the whole dish with a delicate oceanic sweetness.
Step 7: Finish with Scallions and Final Seasoning
Lastly, toss in the chopped scallions, mixing them through to add a fresh, sharp pop of flavor. Give the skillet a careful taste and adjust the seasoning to your preference with extra salt or a pinch more cayenne pepper. These final touches personalize your Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe to exactly how you like it.
How to Serve Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top along with a squeeze of lemon juice to lighten the dish with a vibrant, herbaceous aroma. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or a handful of shredded cheese for extra creaminess. These garnishes make each serving look poppin’ and taste even more indulgent.
Side Dishes
This skillet dish is satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. Garlic bread or warm cornbread complements the spicy, smoky flavors perfectly, giving you a little extra to scoop up every last bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the sausage, shrimp, and rice mixture in hollowed-out bell peppers or small cast iron skillets for a rustic look. Alternatively, top it with a fried egg or avocado slices for added texture and richness. Presentation can make a casual meal feel like a celebratory feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer leftover sausage, shrimp, and rice to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal. Consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if stored in a freezer-safe container. To maintain the best quality, freeze in portions and consume within 2 months. When you thaw and reheat, the shrimp may be slightly more tender, but the overall flavor will remain fantastic.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Cover the pan for even warming. You can also microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap turkey kielbasa for smoked Andouille, chorizo, or Italian sausage. Just adjust cooking times as needed and consider reducing added salt if your sausage is already highly seasoned.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw the shrimp fully before cooking so they cook evenly and don’t release excess water into the dish. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet for the best texture.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Since it uses rice and simple seasonings, just ensure your chicken broth and sausage are gluten-free brands, and you’ll have a naturally gluten-free meal.
What can I substitute for white rice?
Brown rice is an option but will require longer cooking time and more broth to become tender. Quinoa could work for a different texture, but cooking instructions should be adjusted accordingly.
How spicy is this Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe?
The heat level is moderate and customizable. The cayenne pepper adds a gentle kick, but you can increase or decrease the amount based on your spice love. It’s balanced so that it compliments rather than overwhelms the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. With its rich combination of smoky sausage, tender shrimp, colorful veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, it’s comfort food that feels special. I hope you give this recipe a try soon — it’s the kind of meal that turns any dinner into a joyful feast shared with those you love.
Print
Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet recipe is a flavorful one-pot meal featuring turkey kielbasa, succulent shrimp, fresh bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Cooked together in a large pot, the dish combines the savory richness of browned kielbasa with tender vegetables and perfectly cooked rice, finished with a burst of fresh scallions. Ideal for a hearty and comforting dinner that comes together in under an hour.
Ingredients
Sausage and Shrimp
- 13 oz turkey kielbasa, sliced into 1/4″ rounds
- 1 lb raw, deveined shrimp
Vegetables
- 2 bell peppers, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 3 scallions, chopped
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more to taste
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, plus more to taste
Grains and Liquids
- 1.5 cups raw white rice
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
Other
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare Kielbasa: Slice the turkey kielbasa into 1/4-inch rounds to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor release during sautéing.
- Heat Pot: Spray the bottom of a Dutch oven or large pot lightly with olive oil spray and heat over medium-high heat to prepare for browning the kielbasa.
- Cook Kielbasa: Add the kielbasa slices to the hot pot and cook for about 10 minutes until the outsides are browned and flavorful, which helps render out fat and enhances taste.
- Add Vegetables: Dice the bell peppers and onion, then add them to the pot with the kielbasa. This layering builds aromatic depth.
- Sauté Vegetables: Cook the peppers and onion for 10 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally to soften and release moisture that deglazes the pot.
- Scrape Pot: Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot as the vegetable moisture loosens them. These add great flavor.
- Season: Add paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt to the mixture, stirring to incorporate all the spices evenly throughout the sautéed ingredients.
- Add Tomatoes: Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes, combining them with the spices and vegetables for a juicy, fresh element.
- Add Rice and Broth: Pour in the raw white rice and stir to coat in the flavors. Then add the reduced sodium chicken broth, giving everything a good mix to combine.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot, reduce the heat to a simmer, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the raw shrimp to the pot over the cooked rice mixture. Stir gently, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and firm.
- Add Scallions: Chop the scallions and toss them into the pot, mixing gently to incorporate their fresh sharpness into the dish.
- Final Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning by adding extra salt or cayenne pepper for heat according to your preference before serving.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp are deveined and peeled for best texture and flavor.
- You can substitute turkey kielbasa with regular kielbasa or smoked sausage if preferred.
- Adjust cayenne pepper carefully to control the heat level.
- Use low sodium or reduced sodium chicken broth to manage salt content.
- For a gluten-free version, verify the kielbasa and broth ingredients contain no gluten.
- Leftover rice may absorb liquid more; add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
