One Pot Jambalaya for Busy Nights

Name: One Pot Jambalaya for Busy Nights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 150g andouille sausage, sliced; 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz); 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Rapid Cooking Recipes

I love how flavorful and satisfying this One Pot Jambalaya is, especially on busy nights when time feels short. This dish brings together succulent shrimp, spicy sausage, and colorful peppers, all cooked together in one pot for a hassle-free meal that warms the soul. It's perfect for weeknights or when I'm entertaining friends, as it requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. I can whip it up in just 30 minutes, and it never fails to impress with its rich and zesty taste.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-30T17:10:27.243Z

When I first tried making Jambalaya, I found the idea of combining various proteins and spices daunting. However, this one-pot version simplified everything for me, allowing flavors to meld beautifully without requiring multiple pans. The balance of spice from andouille sausage with the freshness of shrimp is simply divine!

Moreover, I discovered that using a good-quality Cajun seasoning really elevates this dish. It’s all about layering flavors and allowing the rice to soak up all those delicious juices. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a staple in your weeknight rotation!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with bold flavors and a hint of spice
Uses just one pot for easy cleanup
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy schedules

The Key to Flavorful Jambalaya

In this One Pot Jambalaya, the combination of andouille sausage and shrimp provides a depth of flavor that's hard to resist. The sausage, with its smoky and spicy notes, infuses the rice with a warmth that complements the sweet, tender shrimp. You can elevate the dish even further by using homemade chicken broth; it adds a richness that store-bought versions often lack. If you're short on time, pre-cooked sausage works well too, just add it later in the cooking process to warm through without overcooking.

The spices play a crucial role in this recipe. Cajun seasoning not only adds heat but also layers of complexity with herbs like oregano, thyme, and paprika. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the quantity or substitute with a mild Creole seasoning. Additionally, fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, can be sprinkled on just before serving for a fresh twist.

The cooking technique also enhances the dish's character. Using a large pot allows for even heat distribution, which is key to achieving a perfect texture in the rice. Be sure to stir the mixture just before bringing it to a boil; this ensures the rice is evenly coated with all the savory ingredients.

Making the Most of Your Ingredients

When preparing your vegetables, cutting them into uniform sizes ensures they cook evenly. The onion and bell pepper should be roughly chopped into 1/2-inch pieces, which allows them to become tender while the shrimp cook. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding other colorful veggies such as zucchini or corn to the mix; they add sweetness and additional texture to the jambalaya.

If you're looking for dietary swaps, turkey or chicken sausage can replace the andouille sausage for a lighter option, while maintaining a satisfying taste. For a vegetarian version, skip the sausage altogether, replace the shrimp with tofu or additional vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, ensuring a hearty meal for everyone at the table.

The one-pot nature of this dish makes it very easy to scale up for larger gatherings. Just keep the rice-to-liquid ratio consistent—one cup of rice to two cups of broth—regardless of portion size. You might need to adjust cooking time slightly based on how tightly you pack the ingredients, so keep an eye on the pot as it simmers.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delicious One Pot Jambalaya:

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
150g andouille sausage, sliced
200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Once you have gathered everything, we can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your One Pot Jambalaya:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add the Sausage and Shrimp

Increase heat to medium-high and stir in the sliced sausage. Cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink.

Combine Rice and Liquids

Add the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning to the pot. Stir to combine well, and bring to a boil.

Simmer the Jambalaya

Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Final Touches

Remove from heat, let it sit for 5 minutes covered, then fluff the rice with a fork. Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful One Pot Jambalaya!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to your dish. You can also customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like zucchini or corn.

Storage and Reheating Tips

When it comes to leftovers, One Pot Jambalaya stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container; it can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to make it ahead of time, consider preparing it a day prior—we often find the flavors meld deliciously overnight, enhancing the overall taste.

For longer storage, this dish can be frozen as well. Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers, and they will keep for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before gently reheating on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.

Microwaving is the quickest way to reheat, but for the best texture, I recommend using the stovetop. Heat over low, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a few tablespoons of water can help revive the dish and keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

This One Pot Jambalaya can be served as a standalone dish, but pairing it with a crisp green salad enhances the meal further. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors in the jambalaya. Garlic bread or breadsticks are also a great accompaniment, perfect for soaking up the delicious juices.

For a fun twist, consider garnishing the dish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a wedge of lemon. The acidity of the lemon brightens the flavors, making each bite even more satisfying. If you're feeling indulgent, serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for those who enjoy an extra kick.

This dish is versatile for many occasions; serve it at casual weeknight dinners or as a crowd-pleaser during gatherings. You can even create a buffet-style meal by providing various toppings and sides, allowing guests to customize their plates.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other proteins instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Chicken or tofu can be used as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead and cook them when ready to eat.

→ Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level can vary based on the Cajun seasoning used. Adjust according to your taste.