Name: Shrimp, Sausage & Potato Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cajun-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds; 1 lb Yukon gold or red potatoes, diced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 bell pepper (red or green), chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups chicken broth or seafood stock; 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp paprika; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or green onion (for garnish)

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This Shrimp, Sausage & Potato Stew is one of those hearty, bold-flavored meals I love to make when I want something warm, rustic, and deeply satisfying. It brings together smoky sausage, tender shrimp, and soft, buttery potatoes all simmered in a savory, spiced broth that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this stew combines seafood and sausage in such a comforting, flavor-packed way. It’s filling without being too heavy, and every spoonful has a bit of everything—juicy shrimp, spiced sausage, soft vegetables, and rich broth. It’s easy to make in one pot, and perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Raw shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Smoked sausage (sliced into rounds)
Potatoes (Yukon gold or red, diced)
Onion
Celery
Bell pepper (red or green)
Garlic
Chicken broth or seafood stock
Olive oil or butter
Tomato paste
Paprika
Cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Dried thyme
Bay leaf
Salt
Black pepper
Fresh parsley or green onion (for garnish)

Directions

I heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat.
I sauté the sausage until browned, then remove and set it aside.
In the same pot, I add the onion, celery, and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
I stir in the garlic, tomato paste, paprika, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper, letting it cook for another minute.
I pour in the broth, add the potatoes and bay leaf, and bring everything to a boil.
I reduce the heat and simmer for about 15–20 minutes until the potatoes are tender.
I return the sausage to the pot, then add the shrimp. I simmer for 3–5 minutes more, just until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
I discard the bay leaf, taste and adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh parsley or green onion before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I use andouille sausage for a spicy Cajun twist. I’ve also added corn kernels or chopped tomatoes to stretch the stew a bit. When I want a thicker broth, I mash a few potatoes right into the pot. For a lighter version, I skip the tomato paste and use more broth with a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm the stew gently on the stove over medium-low heat, just until hot. I avoid overcooking the shrimp during reheating so they don’t turn rubbery. If I plan to freeze it, I leave the shrimp out and add them fresh when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I often use frozen shrimp. I just thaw and pat them dry before adding them to the stew.

What kind of sausage works best?

I like smoked sausage for its rich, savory flavor. Andouille adds heat, while kielbasa brings a milder, smoky taste.

Do I have to peel the potatoes?

No, I usually leave the skin on for extra texture and nutrients, especially with red or Yukon gold potatoes.

Can I make this stew spicy?

Yes, I add more cayenne pepper or even chopped jalapeños if I want more heat. A splash of hot sauce at the end also does the trick.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. I cook everything except the shrimp, then refrigerate it. When ready to serve, I bring it to a simmer and add the shrimp fresh to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Shrimp, Sausage & Potato Stew is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together bold flavors and satisfying textures in one pot. It’s easy to make, perfect for chilly nights, and always leaves me full and happy. Whether I serve it for family dinner or prep it for weekday meals, it’s a recipe I keep coming back to.