Sam Looking for a one-pan wonder that’s loaded with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes? This Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet is the spicy, satisfying dinner you’ve been craving. Packed with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, bell peppers, and onions, all seasoned with bold Cajun spices, this dish is a powerhouse of flavor with minimal cleanup. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet delivers every time.
The beauty of this skillet meal lies in its simplicity. Just a handful of ingredients and one pan is all you need to whip up something that tastes like a Southern restaurant favorite. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb, gluten-free, and easy to customize with your favorite veggies or spice level.
If you’ve been searching for an easy Cajun dinner recipe, this Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet is the answer. It’s fast, fiery, and deeply flavorful—the kind of meal that makes weeknight cooking exciting again.
Want to know more about Cajun cuisine and its origins? Check out this brief history of Cajun food from Adventure.com.
RECIPE OVERVIEW
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cuisine: Cajun / Southern-inspired
Serving Size: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Snapshot
- Calories: ~320 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 8g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Mood Boost Factor: High-protein comfort food with a spicy kick!
For an overview of shrimp’s nutritional benefits, visit this shrimp nutrition facts guide from Medical News Today.
Budget Breakdown
- Shrimp (1 lb): ~$7.00
- Andouille sausage (12 oz): ~$4.50
- Veggies + pantry items: ~$3.00
- Total Cost: ~$14.50
- Cost per Serving: ~$3.63
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
- One-pan cleanup = minimal dishes
- Big, bold flavor in every bite
- Low carb, high protein, and gluten-free
- Great for meal prep or easy weeknight dinners
- Easily adjustable spice level
Behind the Recipe
This Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet was born from a craving for something quick, hearty, and full of spice. Inspired by the bold flavors of Louisiana cuisine, this recipe combines two powerhouse proteins—shrimp and sausage—with caramelized onions, bell peppers, and a homemade Cajun seasoning that packs a punch.
Whether you’re new to Cajun cooking or a longtime fan, this recipe is a simple way to bring Southern comfort to your table without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s become one of my go-to skillet dinners, and I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Cajun Seasoning Spotlight
You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own by combining:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt & black pepper
This blend gives the dish its signature kick and smoky depth.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a little olive oil. Let it marinate while you prep the veggies.
Step 2: Sauté the Sausage
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides (about 3–4 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Veggies
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft and slightly caramelized (5–6 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Push veggies to the side and add shrimp to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return sausage to the skillet and toss everything together. Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp—they cook fast!
- Slice sausage and veggies evenly for consistent texture
- Use a cast iron skillet for best browning and flavor
- Add extra cayenne or hot sauce if you love it spicy
Easy Variations
- Add Rice or Quinoa: Turn it into a hearty rice bowl
- Make it Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk
- Lower the Heat: Reduce cayenne for a milder version
- More Veggies: Add zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Freezer: Freeze cooled portions for up to 1 month
- Reheat: Microwave in short intervals or reheat in a skillet
🍽️ Make It a Meal 🍜
Serve this Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet with:
- ✅ White or brown rice
- ✅ Cauliflower rice for low-carb
- ✅ Garlic bread or cornbread
- ✅ A crisp green salad or roasted veggies
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
Q: What kind of sausage works best?
A: Andouille is traditional, but kielbasa or any smoked sausage works great too.
Q: How spicy is Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet?
A: It depends on your Cajun seasoning. Adjust cayenne or use mild sausage to control the heat.
Q: Can I prep this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Slice all ingredients and store separately. Cook everything fresh in 15 minutes.
Q: Is this dish low-carb or keto?
A: Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and works great for keto with the right sausage.
Q: What goes well with Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet?
A: Rice, roasted vegetables, cornbread, or a side salad pair perfectly with this dish.
Q: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Absolutely—just make sure your sausage doesn’t contain dairy, and avoid creamy sauces.
Q: How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
A: Shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked. Overcooking will make them rubbery, so watch closely.
Q: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
A: Yes! Use a larger skillet or cook in batches to maintain high heat and even browning.
Q: What is the best pan to use for this recipe?
A: A cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed stainless steel pan works best to get a good sear and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet is your ticket to bold flavor with minimal effort. One pan, 30 minutes, and a handful of ingredients deliver a weeknight dinner that feels exciting, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re meal-prepping or feeding a crowd, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Crave bold spice, juicy shrimp, and smoky sausage? This skillet is for you. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
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📌 Pin This Recipe: Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet (One-Pan Dinner!)
This bold and spicy Cajun shrimp and sausage skillet is a quick one-pan meal with shrimp, sausage, peppers, and Cajun seasoning. Ready in under 30 minutes!
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet: Bold, Spicy, and Weeknight-Ready
Ingredients
- 1 lb Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 12 oz Andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 Red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 Green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 Yellow onion, sliced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 ½ tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- ½ tsp Smoked paprika (optional for extra depth)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Cajun Seasoning Spotlight:
- 1 tsp Paprika
- ½ tsp Garlic powder
- ½ tsp Onion powder
- ½ tsp Thyme
- ½ tsp Oregano
- ½ tsp Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt & black pepper
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp:In a bowl, toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a little olive oil. Let it marinate while you prep the veggies.
- Sauté the Sausage:Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides (about 3–4 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Veggies:In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Sauté onions and bell peppers until soft and slightly caramelized (5–6 minutes). Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Add the Shrimp:Push veggies to the side and add shrimp to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Combine and Finish:Return sausage to the skillet and toss everything together. Adjust seasoning, garnish with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.
