Cajun Shrimp Sausage Dirty Rice

 

Here’s a bold and flavorful recipe for Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Dirty Rice – a one-pot Southern classic loaded with smoky sausage, juicy shrimp, Cajun spices, and hearty rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep!

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🍤🌶️ Cajun Shrimp & Sausage Dirty Rice

✅ Ingredients

Proteins:

• ½ lb (225g) shrimp, peeled & deveined
• ½ lb (225g) andouille or smoked sausage, sliced
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more for shrimp)

Vegetables:

• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Rice & Liquid:

• 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water with bouillon)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional for richness)
• 2 tbsp oil or butter (for cooking)

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👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Season & Sear Shrimp

• Toss shrimp with a little Cajun seasoning and set aside.
• Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
• Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until just pink. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook Sausage & Veggies

• In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed and cook sliced sausage until browned.
• Add onion, bell pepper, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes.
• Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.

3. Add Rice & Broth

• Stir in uncooked rice, tomato paste (if using), and 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Toast the rice for 1 minute.
• Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

4. Finish with Shrimp

• Once rice is cooked, gently fold in the cooked shrimp.
• Let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam and let flavors meld.

5. Garnish & Serve

• Fluff rice with a fork.
• Garnish with green onions and serve hot!

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🌟 Tips & Variations:

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne or hot sauce to taste.
• Veggie Boost: Add diced tomatoes or corn for color and sweetness.
• Make it a Meal Prep: Holds well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

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Let me know if you want a low-carb version, or a slow cooker adaptation!