If you’ve ever been intimidated by Cajun cuisine, today’s recipe is for you. With a reputation for being spicy, Cajun food is actually just seasoned really well, and this recipe is here to capture your heart and lead you into a world of cuisine you never knew you needed in your life.
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage is a traditional Cajun recipe, bringing land and sea together with vibrant Cajun seasoning and a whole lot of ease. Served over rice or quinoa, it’s the perfect culinary adventure for any night of the week
We like to use this recipe on the busy nights of the week, which, to be honest, are all the days that end in -y. If you’re in the same club, you’re in good company…especially because this club comes with a solution to all your dinner woes: make-ahead freezer meals like this one, our Cajun Shrimp and Sausage.
Long before the chaos ensues, you drop the ingredients into a freezer bag and store the Cajun magic in your freezer until you need it. In a matter of minutes, you’ll have an authentic Cajun dinner before your eyes with zero hassle. And if you double the recipe, you’ll have another Cajun adventure in queue for the next time you long to end your chaotic day with a dish full of flavorful Southern charm.
Why You’ll Love this Cajun Shrimp Sausage Freezer Meal Recipe
- Culinary Diversity: Cajun Shrimp and Sausage is a great introduction to Cajun cuisine!
- Versatile: This recipe is a great base, as it can be served over rice, pasta, quinoa, or even as tacos for varied meals.
- Allergen-Friendly: Naturally gluten and dairy-free, this recipe does not contain the most common allergens, making it a great option for anyone with dietary needs or preferences.
- Minimal Ingredients: With pantry staples, this recipe has minimal ingredients which makes it budget friendly!
- 1 Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
- 1 gallon freezer bag
- 1 lb Shrimp Peeled and deveined (Leave in package)
- 1 lb Andouille sausage
- 1 1/2 cups Diced bell pepper
- 1 1/2 cups Diced onion
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 1/2 -2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Depending on desired heat level
- 2 cups Basmati rice
- Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method.
- Add all ingredients, except the shrimp, to the labeled freezer bag. Place shrimp in the freezer in its own packaging.
- Seal bag, removing as much air as possible, then shake to evenly coat and freeze for up to three months.
- Thaw freezer bag in fridge 12-24 hours before cooking.
- Dump the contents of the freezer bag into a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours.
- During the last 1 hour of cooking time, add shrimp and stir.
- Stir and serve over rice.
- Dump the contents of the freezer bag into the Instant Pot, add ½ cup water.
- Set to High Pressure for 5 minutes, then quick release.
- After releasing the pressure quickly, add the shrimp to the pot, stir, and then use the “Sauté” function for about 3-5 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through.
- Stir and serve over rice.
- Recipe is naturally gluten free
- Recipe is naturally dairy free
Equipment needed to make Easy Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Freezer Dinner
- 1 Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
- 1 gallon freezer bag
Ingredients for your Cajun Shrimp and Sausage
- 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined (Leave in package)
- 1 lb Andouille sausage
- 1 1/2 cups Diced bell pepper
- 1 1/2 cups Diced onion
- 1 tsp Garlic powder
- 1 tsp Salt
- 1 tsp Black pepper
- 1 1/2 -2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, depending on desired heat level
- For Serving
- 2 cups Basmati rice
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Sausage
Prep/freezer directions:
- Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method.
- Add all ingredients, except the shrimp, to the labeled freezer bag. Place shrimp in the freezer in its own packaging.
- Seal bag, removing as much air as possible, then shake to evenly coat and freeze for up to three months.
Slow Cooker cooking directions:
- Thaw freezer bag in fridge 12-24 hours before cooking.
- Dump the contents of the freezer bag into a slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 3-4 hours.
- During the last 1 hour of cooking time, add shrimp and stir.
- Stir and serve over rice.
What to pair with your Spicy Shrimp and Sausage Freezer Dinner
Sides:
- Cajun Roasted Vegetables
- Creamy Southern Succotash
- Cajun Corn Maque Choux
Desserts:
- New Orleans Beignets
- Southern Sweet Potato Pie
- Creole Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce
Mocktails:
- Sparkling Blackberry Lemon Mocktail
- Cucumber Mint Limeade
- Pineapple Ginger Sparkler
Popular Substitutions and Additions
Substitutions:
- Chicken: If you’re looking for an alternative to the shrimp, cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and freeze along with the sausage. Chicken pairs well with Cajun seasoning and is delicious alongside the andouille sausage.
- Turkey Sausage: While Andouille sausage is the best option for optimal flavor, turkey sausage is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter, leaner meat. It absorbs the Cajun seasoning well still, which is key.
Additions:
- Corn: For an added sweet crunch, add 1 cup of corn to the dish before freezing. Corn is a great complement to the Cajun seasoning (and is often a staple ingredient in Cajun dishes), and adds color and texture to the meal. Fresh, canned (well-drained), or frozen corn all will work well in this recipe.
- Diced Tomatoes: Add one 14.5 ounce can of (drained) diced tomatoes to the recipe for a mild acidity that balances the heat of the Cajun seasoning.
How to Reheat and Store Cajun Shrimp and Sausage
Best way to store Leftover Make-Ahead Cajun Seafood Meal
The best way to store your leftover Cajun Shrimp would be to allow the recipe to cool to room temperature before storing. This will prevent the condensation build up in your storage container. Once cooled, the best way to store would be in an airtight container or resealable bag.
How long will Cajun Shrimp and Sausage last in the fridge?
When you properly allow your leftovers to cool, and store in the proper containers or bags, your Cajun shrimp leftovers will last in a fridge for 3-5 days.
Can I freeze Make-Ahead Cajun Shrimp and Sausage?
Yes, of course. If you are wanting to extend the shelf life of your leftovers, freezing is a great option. Follow the same procedure as you would to store in the fridge, allow to cool, and use proper storage devices. Then remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months.
We recommend making this recipe as a raw freezer meal, prepping first, storing in the freezer, then cooking fresh. To do this, add all ingredients, except the shrimp, to the labeled freezer bag. Place the shrimp in the freezer in its own packaging. Then, seal the bag, removing as much air as you can, then shake to evenly coat and freeze for up to three months.
How to Reheat Spicy Shrimp and Sausage Freezer Meal?
There are multiple ways to reheat your leftovers, the best may be the stovetop. If you wish to use the stovetop, place a skillet on the burner over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking, and place your desired amount of leftovers on the skillet. Stir occasionally until your desired temperature has been reached. When using the microwave, you want to make sure that you avoid overcooking, as this will change the texture and profile of the dish. Place desired amount of leftovers on a safe-dish, then using short bursts of 30-45 seconds, heat until your leftovers have been evenly cooked.
Cajun-Inspired Shrimp and Sausage Freezer Meal FAQs
Other Cajun and Seafood Recipes You’ll Love
- Jambalaya Freezer Meal Recipe
- Mississippi Pot Roast
- Spicy Shrimp Fajitas
- Maple Mustard Salmon and Brussel Sprouts
- Sausage and Rainbow Veggies
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Don’t forget to come back and let me know how your Cajun Shrimp and Sausage turned out!
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