Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight meal: Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan! It’s one of those dishes that’s not only super easy to whip up, but it’s also packed with flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance. Seriously, the combination of spicy Cajun seasoning with fresh shrimp and juicy sausage is just heavenly. I remember the first time I made it for a family gathering—everyone was raving about it! We piled our plates high, and there was hardly a scrap left. It’s one of those recipes that brings everyone together around the table, and trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?”
Ingredients List
Alright, let’s get everything ready for our Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups bell peppers, chopped (any colors you love—red, yellow, green, or a mix!)
- 1 cup red onion, chopped (adds a nice sweetness!)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil (to help everything roast beautifully)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (feel free to adjust based on how spicy you like it!)
- Salt to taste (just a pinch for extra flavor)
Having everything prepped and ready to go makes this dish a breeze to throw together, so make sure to measure it all out before you start cooking!
How to Prepare Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Sheet Pan
Now, let’s dive into the magic of making this Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll love how everything comes together.
Preheat the Oven
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial! Preheating ensures that your shrimp and sausage cook evenly and get that nice roasted flavor. It’s like giving your dish a warm welcome before it hits the heat!
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, throw in your shrimp, sliced sausage, chopped bell peppers, and red onion. Make sure to mix everything together thoroughly—this way, each bite is bursting with flavor! Just use your hands or a spatula; you want to ensure the shrimp and veggies are well combined with the sausage.
Season and Toss
Next, drizzle in the olive oil, sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, and add a pinch of salt. Now, toss it all together like you mean it! You want every piece of shrimp and every veggie to be coated in that zesty seasoning for the best flavor explosion.
Spread and Bake
Spread the mixture evenly onto a sheet pan, making sure it’s in a single layer. This allows everything to roast nicely! Pop it in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the shrimp are opaque and the veggies are tender and slightly caramelized. Yum!
Serve and Enjoy
Once it’s out of the oven, serve it hot! This dish pairs perfectly with some fluffy rice or a crusty piece of bread to soak up all that delicious goodness. Gather your friends or family around and dig in—you won’t be disappointed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of Cajun spices, fresh shrimp, and savory sausage creates a taste explosion that’s hard to resist!
- Healthy: Packed with protein and veggies, this dish is not only delicious but also nutritious, fitting well into a balanced diet.
- One-Pan Wonder: With everything cooked on a single sheet pan, cleanup is a breeze—more time to enjoy your meal!
- Customizable: You can easily swap out veggies or adjust the spice level to suit your taste, making it versatile for any palate.
- Perfect for Sharing: It’s a fantastic dish to serve at gatherings—everyone can help themselves, and it’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
To make sure your Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan turns out absolutely perfect every time, I’ve got some great tips for you!
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re not a fan of too much heat, start with just 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and taste before adding more. You can always sprinkle on extra later if you want more kick!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, asparagus, or even some corn can be fantastic additions. Just keep in mind that denser veggies may need a bit longer to cook.
- Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Keep an eye on them; once they’re opaque and slightly curled, they’re done! It usually takes about 20-25 minutes in the oven.
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a little extra time, marinating the shrimp and sausage in olive oil and Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking can really boost the flavor!
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: Make sure everything is in a single layer on the sheet pan. If it’s too crowded, your ingredients will steam instead of roast, and we want that lovely caramelization!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this delicious dish. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this fabulous Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan, and now you’ve got some leftovers? No worries! Proper storage and reheating will ensure you get to enjoy every last bite.
First, let the dish cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and keeps your shrimp and sausage from getting soggy. Once cooled, transfer your leftovers to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven to maintain that delicious roasted flavor. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and spread the leftovers on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This way, you’ll keep the shrimp and veggies nice and tender, rather than rubbery.
If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat in the microwave. Just pop a portion on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a damp paper towel to keep moisture in, and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking to ensure it’s heated evenly. But trust me, the oven method is where it’s at for the best flavor!
Enjoy those tasty leftovers, and remember, they’re just as good the second time around!
Nutritional Information Section
Now, let’s talk numbers! This Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan is not just delicious but also packs a nutritious punch. Here’s an estimated breakdown of what you’re getting per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used and portion sizes. This dish is a great option if you’re looking for something hearty yet balanced, fitting nicely into a healthy meal plan. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them in the refrigerator or under cold running water before cooking. You want them to be peeled and deveined, so they mix well with the sausage and veggies.
What can I substitute for smoked sausage?
If you want to switch it up, you can use chicken sausage or even kielbasa if you like a different flavor. Just remember that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the type of sausage you choose.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Great question! The shrimp are done when they turn opaque and curl slightly. It usually takes about 20-25 minutes in the oven, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking!
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! This dish is super customizable. Feel free to toss in zucchini, asparagus, or even corn. Just be mindful that denser vegetables might need a bit longer to cook, so adjust your timing accordingly.
How should I store leftovers?
Let your leftover Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan cool before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat it in the oven for the best flavor!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan is gluten-free, making it a great option for anyone with dietary restrictions. Just double-check your sausage and seasoning to ensure they’re gluten-free as well!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You certainly can! You can prep all the ingredients and store them in the fridge, then bake it right before you’re ready to eat. This way, you’ll have a hassle-free dinner ready to go!
What should I serve with this dish?
I love serving it with fluffy rice or some crusty bread to soak up all that delightful sauce. A fresh salad on the side adds a nice crunch and balances the flavors perfectly!
For more information on the health benefits of shrimp, check out Healthline.
To learn more about Cajun cuisine, visit The Spruce Eats.
Print
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Sheet Pan: 5 Simple Steps
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan is a quick and tasty dish with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 2 cups bell peppers, chopped
- 1 cup red onion, chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine shrimp, sausage, bell peppers, and onion.
- Add olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and salt. Toss to coat.
- Spread the mixture on a sheet pan in a single layer.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until shrimp are cooked and vegetables are tender.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Customize with your favorite vegetables.
- Adjust spice level by changing Cajun seasoning amount.
- Best served with rice or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: cajun shrimp and sausage sheet pan, sheet pan dinner, easy shrimp recipes
