Shrimp and Sausage Veggie Skillet

Few things can match the bold flavors and convenience of a skillet meal and this shrimp and sausage veggie skillet is my answer for busy weeknights I want something hearty colorful and just a little spicy It comes together fast and feels restaurant special every time

If you love bold flavors and quick cleanup you will want to make this a regular rotation The first time I made this my kitchen was filled with laughter and the sizzle of good things happening now it is one of my go to dinner savers when everyone is hungry and time is tight

Ingredients

• Shrimp: choose large peeled and deveined for tender texture and fast prep look for wild caught if possible for best flavor
• Olive oil: helps develop flavor and richness use extra virgin for best taste
• Minced garlic: fresh garlic gives aromatic depth and punch mince it yourself if you can
• Onion powder: brings subtle savory notes and ties the flavors together
• Paprika: adds smoky warmth opt for smoked paprika for a deeper flavor
• Salt and pepper: heightens and balances all flavors use sea salt and fresh ground pepper for best results
• Red pepper flakes: lend a gentle kick increase or decrease to control the spice
• Smoked sausage: sliced for easy browning look for naturally smoked sausages for robust taste turkey sausage works for a lighter option
• Red bell pepper: adds sweetness and color choose firm peppers with glossy skins for best crunch
• Asparagus: gives earthy green flavor fresh asparagus holds up best in the skillet
• Zucchini: mild base that absorbs the seasonings choose small to medium zucchinis for fewer seeds and tender flesh
• Chicken broth: brings moisture and rounds out the flavors use low sodium broth for control over seasoning

Instructions

Heat the Skillet:

Pour one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet and place on medium high heat Let it heat fully before adding anything You want the oil to shimmer sizzle not smoke This is the first step to good browning

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp:

Add minced garlic to the hot oil Stir quickly so it does not burn Immediately add shrimp in a single layer Sprinkle with paprika onion powder salt and pepper Cook shrimp for two minutes per side Do not move them much Let them brown and curl but not overcook They should be opaque and slightly golden Remove all shrimp when done and set aside on a plate

Brown the Sausage:

Add sliced smoked sausage directly into the skillet Brown sausage pieces on both cut sides letting the fat render and edges get crisp This takes about three to four minutes Remove sausage and set aside with the shrimp

Sauté Vegetables:

Turn the heat down to medium and add the final tablespoon of olive oil Immediately add diced bell pepper asparagus pieces and diced zucchini Sprinkle with salt and pepper Stir well Pour in chicken broth This step is important Cover the skillet and let veggies steam and sauté They should get brighter and slightly soft but keep some bite about five to six minutes

Finish and Combine:

Uncover the skillet Stir shrimp and sausage back in Mix gently so nothing breaks up Taste and adjust seasoning if needed Top with more red pepper flakes and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley if you like Serve straight from the pan

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One thing I always look forward to is the first bite of crisp sausage with sweet bell pepper Every family gathering we all dig our forks in at once and laugh about who discovered this perfect combo first I am convinced this dish started my kids on their love for shrimp

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool to room temperature before sealing in an airtight container The skillet will keep well in the fridge for up to three days To reheat use a skillet over medium heat or a microwave Just be careful not to overcook the shrimp during reheating or they will get rubbery

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap asparagus for green beans or broccoli if needed Andouille sausage or chicken sausage work just as well in place of the smoked sausage For a seafood free version diced chicken thighs are perfect Make sure to use the same seasoning steps for a full flavor result

Serving Suggestions

Spoon the skillet over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a filling meal It is also wonderful tucked into a warm pita or alongside a simple green salad If you are feeling extra fancy add a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top right before serving

Cultural Notes

This dish draws inspiration from southern and Cajun kitchens Shrimp and sausage combos are classic in Louisiana style cooking I love how this recipe marries smoky sausage with fresh veggies for something that feels both rustic and modern It always reminds me of my childhood summers spent near the Gulf Coast

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With these quick tips you will be set for bold flavor and a fuss free clean up Enjoy this shrimp and sausage skillet whenever you need a comforting meal in a hurry

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in broccoli, spinach, or any seasonal veggies you prefer.

→ Should I use raw or pre-cooked sausage?

Smoked or pre-cooked sausage works best, as it browns quickly and adds savory flavor.

→ Can frozen shrimp be used?

Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

→ Is this dish spicy?

You can easily adjust the spice level by adding or omitting red pepper flakes.

→ What can I serve alongside?

This skillet is complete on its own, but it's great with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread.