Get ready to embrace a flavor-packed adventure with this Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe. This one-pan wonder blends smoky turkey kielbasa, tender shrimp, vibrant bell peppers, and juicy cherry tomatoes—all simmered in fragrant spices and fluffy rice. It’s the perfect mix of textures and tastes that makes every bite comforting yet exciting, and the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug at the end of a busy day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a crucial role in bringing this Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe to life. From the smoky sausage to the fresh veggies and spices, each element contributes distinct flavors, colors, and textures that meld beautifully.
- 13 oz turkey kielbasa: Thickly sliced for a smoky, meaty base that adds a hearty, savory punch.
- 1 lb raw, deveined shrimp: Adds a tender, slightly sweet contrast that pairs perfectly with the sausage.
- 2 bell peppers, diced: Offer vibrant color and a sweet crunch to every bite.
- 1 onion, diced: Builds a foundational savory depth when sautéed.
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved: Provide juicy bursts of freshness and natural sweetness.
- 3 scallions, chopped: Bring a sharp, fresh finish that brightens the skillet.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a smoky warmth that ties the spices together.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Infuses an earthy herbal note that complements the meat and veggies.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Enhances overall savory flavor without overpowering.
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt, plus more: Balances and elevates all flavors.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper, plus more: Introduces a subtle heat that you can tailor to taste.
- 1.5 cups raw white rice: Acts as the absorbing, fluffy base soaking up all the delicious juices.
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth: Keeps the rice moist and infuses savory richness.
- Olive oil spray: For light sautéing without excess fat.
How to Make Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Brown the Turkey Kielbasa
Start by slicing the turkey kielbasa into 1/4-inch rounds so they cook evenly and release their smoky richness. Lightly spray a large pot or Dutch oven with olive oil, heat over medium-high, and add the kielbasa slices. Cook them for about 10 minutes, letting them brown beautifully on both sides to develop that irresistible caramelized flavor that only comes from well-rendered fat.
Step 2: Add and Sauté the Vegetables
Next, dice the bell peppers and onion, then add them to the pot with the browned kielbasa. Stir everything together and let the vegetables soften and release their natural juices over roughly 10 minutes. This step builds a deep aromatic base as the ingredients mingle and the pot deglazes from those tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom.
Step 3: Season and Incorporate Cherry Tomatoes
Sprinkle in paprika, dried oregano, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt. Stir well so each bite gets an even spread of warm spices. Then add the halved cherry tomatoes, folding them gently into the mixture. Their juicy sweetness will brighten the savory depth of the dish.
Step 4: Add Rice and Chicken Broth, Then Simmer
Pour in the raw white rice and toss to coat every grain with the flavors in the pot. Follow with the chicken broth, stirring once more, then bring the whole skillet to a boil. Cover the pot, reduce heat to a simmer, and let it cook for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Gently Cook Shrimp and Finish with Scallions
Now nestle the raw shrimp into the cooked rice mixture. Stir gently, cover, and cook an additional 5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, signifying they’re perfectly done. Finally, sprinkle the chopped scallions on top, stirring just enough to spread their fresh, peppery note through the dish.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust Seasoning
Before serving, take a moment to taste your masterpiece. Add extra kosher salt or cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit more seasoning or heat. This final step ensures the Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe hits every flavor note just right.
How to Serve Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro make fantastic garnishes, adding a burst of green and a pleasant herbal aroma. A squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice can also elevate the dish with bright acidity that cuts through the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This skillet shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread to mop up all those delicious juices. A light coleslaw can also add a refreshing crunchy contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive gathering, serve this dish family-style straight from the skillet so everyone can help themselves. Alternatively, plate individual servings in deep bowls topped with an extra sprinkle of scallions and a wedge of lemon for a casual yet classy presentation that makes every bite feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, leftovers maintain their delicious flavor for up to three days, making it perfect for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, though the texture of shrimp can soften slightly after thawing. Freeze in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Microwaving works too—cover loosely and heat in short increments to avoid drying out the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While turkey kielbasa adds a lean smoky flavor, you can swap in smoked andouille, chorizo, or even regular kielbasa depending on your preference. Just slice it similarly to ensure even cooking.
Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as long as they are thawed thoroughly before adding to the skillet. This prevents excess water from diluting the flavors and helps the shrimp cook evenly.
Can I make this recipe using brown rice?
You can substitute brown rice, but it will require a longer simmer time and more liquid. Plan for about 40-45 minutes of cooking and increase the broth by about 1 cup to ensure the rice cooks fully.
How spicy is this dish?
The dish features a gentle warmth from cayenne pepper, but you can easily adjust the level of heat by adding more or less. For a milder version, simply reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat?
Definitely! It reheats wonderfully and actually benefits from sitting overnight as flavors continue to meld. Just reheat gently to preserve the texture of the shrimp and keep everything tasting fresh.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to wow your taste buds while keeping things simple in the kitchen, this Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe is your new best friend. It’s cozy, colorful, and packed with flavor that feels lovingly homemade. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again.
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Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
A hearty and flavorful one-pot meal combining turkey kielbasa, succulent shrimp, and tender rice cooked together with vibrant bell peppers, onions, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic spices. This Sausage, Shrimp, and Rice Skillet is perfect for an easy yet satisfying dinner, delivering a balanced blend of protein and vegetables infused with bold southern-inspired seasoning.
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 for heat
Other Ingredients
- 1.5 cups raw white rice
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 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, helping to render out the fat and enhance taste.
- Add Vegetables: Dice the bell peppers and onion, then add them to the pot with the kielbasa to build aromatic depth.
- Sauté Vegetables: Cook the peppers and onion for 10 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally to soften and release moisture that helps deglaze the pot.
- Scrape Pot: Use a wooden spoon to scrape any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot as the vegetable moisture loosens them, adding great flavor.
- Season: Add paprika, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and kosher salt to the mixture, stirring to incorporate 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 and mix well to combine.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and simmer 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
- Use reduced sodium chicken broth to control salt levels but adjust seasoning if needed.
- For added spice, increase cayenne pepper to taste.
- If turkey kielbasa isn’t available, smoked sausage or andouille sausage can be substituted.
- Ensure shrimp are deveined and peeled for best texture and ease of eating.
- For gluten-free option, verify that kielbasa and broth are gluten-free certified.
- This recipe can be adapted for stovetop cooking in a heavy-bottomed large skillet or Dutch oven.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American
