Cajun cuisine is known for its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, and this recipe for Cajun Style Potatoes Smothered with Shrimp and Sausage perfectly embodies that spirit. This dish combines tender Russet potatoes with smoked sausage, succulent shrimp, and a variety of spices to create a mouthwatering meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to treat yourself to something special, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Russet potatoes, diced into ½-inch pieces
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 2 tbsp Cajun or Creole seasoning
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp liquid Shrimp and Crab boil (Garlic and Onion flavor)
- 1 pound peeled and deveined shrimp
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by preparing all of your ingredients. Dice the Russet potatoes into ½-inch pieces, slice the smoked sausage, dice the green bell pepper and onion, and mince the garlic. Make sure your shrimp is peeled and deveined before starting.
2. Cook the Potatoes
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes to the skillet and cook them for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and develop a golden-brown crust. If the potatoes start to stick, add a little more oil or a splash of chicken broth to the pan.
3. Add the Sausage and Vegetables
- Once the potatoes are partially cooked, add the sliced smoked sausage, diced green bell pepper, and diced onion to the skillet. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, for another 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and the vegetables are softened.
4. Season the Dish
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Then, sprinkle the Cajun or Creole seasoning, Italian seasoning, and onion powder over the potatoes, sausage, and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the spices.
5. Add the Chicken Broth and Shrimp Boil
- Pour in the chicken broth and the liquid Shrimp and Crab boil (Garlic and Onion flavor). Stir to combine, making sure the seasoning and liquids are evenly distributed. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Add the Shrimp
- Once the potatoes are fully cooked and tender, add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Stir the shrimp into the potato and sausage mixture, then cover the skillet again. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
7. Serve and Enjoy
- Once everything is cooked, give the dish a final stir to ensure all the flavors are well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more Cajun or Creole seasoning if desired.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions if desired, and serve your Cajun Style Potatoes Smothered with Shrimp and Sausage hot. This dish is perfect on its own, or you can serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this dish because they hold up well during cooking and develop a nice, crispy exterior while staying soft and fluffy inside.
- Control the Heat: Cajun and Creole seasonings can vary in heat level, so adjust the amount according to your taste. If you like it spicier, feel free to add more seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cooking the Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re ready to go.
- Smoked Sausage Options: Andouille sausage is a traditional choice for Cajun dishes, but you can use any smoked sausage you like. Kielbasa or even a spicy chorizo would work well.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This recipe is a wonderful example of the bold, robust flavors that Cajun cuisine is known for. The combination of tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and succulent shrimp creates a rich and satisfying meal that’s both comforting and exciting. The spices and seasonings used in this dish give it a depth of flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re a fan of Cajun food or new to the cuisine, this recipe is sure to impress.
Cajun Style Potatoes Smothered with Shrimp and Sausage is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The flavors are complex and comforting, and the dish is hearty enough to be a complete meal on its own. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want to treat yourself to something special. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a taste of Louisiana right in your own kitchen!
