Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet

This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is a quick, hearty meal loaded with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, colorful vegetables, and bold Cajun seasoning. Everything cooks together in one skillet, making it an easy weeknight dinner with plenty of savory, spicy flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 12 oz (340 g) smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms, optional
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.

Season with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Set aside.

2. Brown the Sausage

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

Add the sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, until browned and lightly crisp around the edges.

Transfer the sausage to a plate.

3. Cook the Vegetables

Add the butter to the same skillet.

Add the onion, bell pepper, and mushrooms if using.

Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30–60 seconds.

4. Cook the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet.

Cook for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink, opaque, and curl into a loose “C” shape.

Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.

5. Combine Everything

Return the browned sausage to the skillet.

Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning and stir everything together.

Cook for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors combine.

6. Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and add the fresh lemon juice.

Garnish with chopped parsley and sliced green onions.

Serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Serving Suggestions

This Cajun skillet is delicious served over:

• Steamed white rice
• Cajun rice
• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Egg noodles
• Grits
• Crusty French bread

Recipe Tips

• Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture.
• Pat shrimp dry before seasoning so they sear instead of steaming.
• Cajun seasoning can vary significantly in saltiness, so taste before adding extra salt.
• Add sliced jalapeño or red pepper flakes for more heat.
• For a creamy version, stir in ½ cup heavy cream and ½ cup Parmesan during the final few minutes.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep & Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Meta Description

Make this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Skillet with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, colorful vegetables, garlic, and bold Cajun seasoning for a quick and flavorful one-pan dinner.