Shrimp Sausage Veggie Skillet

Few things match the bold flavor 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 but feels restaurant special every time

If you love big flavors and almost zero cleanup you will want this in your regular rotation The first time I made this my kitchen was loud with laughter and the sizzle of good things happening Now it is my go to when everyone is hungry and time is tight

Ingredients

• Shrimp: choose large peeled and deveined for tender texture and quick prep Look for wild caught if you can for the best flavor
• Olive oil: adds richness and helps develop flavor Use extra virgin for depth
• Minced garlic: gives a punchy aromatic base Always use fresh if possible
• Onion powder: offers a gentle savory background tying the dish together
• Paprika: brings deep smoky warmth Smoked paprika is my top pick
• Salt and pepper: heighten and balance all the flavors Sea salt and fresh ground pepper work best
• Red pepper flakes: give a gentle kick to the dish Add more or less as you like
• Smoked sausage: sliced for even browning Choose naturally smoked for robust flavor Turkey sausage is great for a lighter touch
• Red bell pepper: adds bright sweetness and color Choose firm glossy peppers
• Asparagus: offers fresh green crunch Only fresh stalks will stay crisp in the skillet
• Zucchini: provides a mild base that soaks up every seasoning Small to medium zucchinis are most tender
• Chicken broth: brings moisture and gently melds flavors Low sodium gives you more control over taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the Skillet:

Pour one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet and place on medium high heat Let the oil heat up until it shimmers but does not smoke This makes the base for developing beautiful browning on the protein and vegetables

Sauté Garlic and Shrimp:

Add minced garlic to the hot oil Stir quickly so the garlic perfumes the oil without burning Next lay the shrimp in a single layer over the skillet Sprinkle with paprika onion powder salt and pepper Let the shrimp cook for two minutes per side without moving them much This builds a crisp golden outside They should be pink opaque and just curled Remove shrimp to a plate when done

Brown the Sausage:

Place sliced smoked sausage into the same skillet Let each cut side brown until the edges are crisp letting the fat render out which seasons the pan perfectly This should take three to four minutes Remove the sausage and keep with the shrimp

Sauté Vegetables:

Turn the heat down to medium and swirl the second tablespoon of olive oil in the pan Add diced red bell pepper asparagus pieces and zucchini Season with salt and pepper Give everything a good stir Pour in chicken broth to create flavorful steam Cover the skillet so the veggies cook through but stay a bit crisp This step takes five to six minutes

Finish and Combine:

Uncover the skillet and return the shrimp plus sausage to the vegetables Mix carefully until everything is coated in the juices Taste and adjust the seasoning if you wish Scatter fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes over if desired Serve straight from the skillet for best flavor and texture

Pin

What I love most is the first crisp bite of sausage with that sweet tender bell pepper At every family meal we all dig in at once and there is always a race to see who finds the best pairing first I am pretty sure this dish is what made my kids love shrimp

Storage Tips

After everyone eats let the leftovers cool to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the fridge You can keep this dish up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet to keep everything from getting rubbery or in the microwave for quick meals Be careful not to overcook the shrimp when reheating or they will lose their tenderness

Ingredient Substitutions

If asparagus is out of season swap it out for green beans or broccoli Both work beautifully Andouille sausage or chicken sausage can stand in for smoked sausage for different flavor For a non seafood version use diced chicken thighs following the same seasoning method for great results

Serving Suggestions

Serve spooned over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a classic meal It tucks nicely into a pita or is perfect with a big green salad If you are feeling fancy a squeeze of fresh lemon over the top right as you serve lifts all the flavors

Cultural Notes

This skillet draws inspiration from southern and Cajun kitchens Shrimp and sausage as a pair are classic in Louisiana style meals I love that this one pan dish balances smoked sausage and fresh veggies for flavors that feel both familiar and modern It always calls back memories of my summers spent near the Gulf Coast with family meals that stretched right into the evening

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or other seasonal veggies work well for variety and texture.

→ Should I use raw or pre-cooked sausage?

Smoked or pre-cooked sausages brown quickly, adding savory depth and a crisp finish.

→ Can frozen shrimp be used?

Yes, thaw and pat dry before cooking to maintain a tender, juicy texture.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The spice level is adjustable; red pepper flakes can be added or omitted to taste.

→ What can I serve alongside this skillet?

It pairs nicely with steamed rice, quinoa, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.