Shrimp and Sausage Skillet: No Soggy Broccoli!

Tired of broccoli turning to mush in your skillet dinners? We’ve all been there! This Shrimp and Sausage Skillet recipe solves that problem with a simple steaming trick that keeps your broccoli crisp-tender and packed with flavor. It’s a quick, healthy, and delicious one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Sausage Skillet

This isn’t just another skillet recipe; it’s a weeknight game-changer! Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to this dish:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, from prep to plate.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup makes this a weeknight dream.
• Healthy and Flavorful: Packed with protein and vibrant vegetables.
• Perfectly Cooked Broccoli: Say goodbye to soggy broccoli forever! The simple steaming technique works like a charm.
• Customizable: Easily adapt this recipe to your liking with different sausages or vegetables.

Gathering Your Ingredients for Shrimp and Sausage Skillet

This skillet dinner relies on a handful of fresh ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures. The combination of savory sausage, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked broccoli makes for a satisfying and well-balanced meal. Let’s dive into the specifics, so you know exactly what to look for at the grocery store.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Opt for wild-caught shrimp if possible for the best flavor. Make sure they are peeled and deveined to save you time and effort. I like to use large shrimp because they hold their shape well during cooking and provide a substantial bite.
• 1 pound smoked chicken sausage, sliced: The smoked sausage adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the dish. Chicken sausage is a lighter alternative to pork sausage, but feel free to use your favorite type. Just be sure it’s pre-cooked!
• 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets: Fresh broccoli is essential for this recipe. Choose a head that is firm and has tightly closed florets. Cutting the broccoli into evenly sized florets ensures that it cooks evenly.
• 1 medium onion, sliced: Yellow or white onion works best in this recipe, providing a mild, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients. Slicing the onion thinly allows it to cook quickly and evenly.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Freshly minced garlic adds a pungent aroma and flavor to the dish. Avoid using pre-minced garlic, as it lacks the intensity of fresh garlic.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the ingredients and adding richness to the dish. Extra virgin olive oil is a great choice for its flavor and health benefits.
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: This blend of herbs adds a classic Italian flavor to the dish. You can use a pre-mixed Italian herb blend or create your own using oregano, basil, rosemary, and thyme.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Adjust the amount to your liking.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Black pepper adds a subtle warmth and spice to the dish. Freshly ground black pepper is always best.
• 1/4 cup chicken broth: The chicken broth is the key to steaming the broccoli to perfection. It adds moisture and flavor to the skillet. Low-sodium chicken broth is recommended to control the salt content.

Crafting Your Shrimp and Sausage Skillet: Step-by-Step

Now for the fun part: putting it all together! Don’t be intimidated; this recipe is incredibly straightforward. The secret to the best results lies in the broccoli technique, which we’ll highlight in detail. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious and healthy meal on the table in no time.

1. Season the Shrimp: In a large bowl, gently toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, and Italian herbs. This simple marinade infuses the shrimp with flavor and helps them cook evenly. Let them sit while you prep the other ingredients; even a few minutes makes a difference!
2. Sear the Sausage: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-7 minutes. Browning the sausage not only adds flavor but also creates a nice crispy texture. Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the sliced onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. The onion should be translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, being careful not to burn it. Burnt garlic can ruin the entire dish, so keep a close eye on it.
4. The Broccoli Steaming Secret: This is where the magic happens! Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Immediately add the chicken broth, cover the skillet tightly, and steam the broccoli for only 3-4 minutes, or until it’s bright green and crisp-tender. The brief steaming time ensures that the broccoli is cooked through but retains its vibrant color and satisfying crunch. Remove the lid and cook off any excess liquid for about 1 minute.
5. Combine and Finish: Add the shrimp and sausage back to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp is pink and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
6. Serve Immediately: This skillet dinner is best enjoyed hot, right off the stove. Serve it as is, or over rice, quinoa, or pasta. Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Every Time

Want to take your Shrimp and Sausage Skillet to the next level? Here are a few extra tips to ensure success:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming instead of searing, which can result in unevenly cooked ingredients. If necessary, cook the sausage and shrimp in batches.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or Italian herbs to suit your preferences.
• Add a Touch of Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the garlic.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Garnish the finished dish with fresh parsley, basil, or oregano for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Make it a Bowl: Turn this skillet into a power bowl by serving it over rice or quinoa. Add a drizzle of your favorite sauce for extra flavor. For a comforting option, consider cheesy additions – similar to how our cheesy chicken and broccoli casserole combines familiar flavors.

What to Serve With Shrimp and Sausage Skillet

This Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a simple green salad, some crusty bread for soaking up the sauce, or a side of roasted vegetables. For a Mediterranean twist, you could also serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce. A light and refreshing salad like our Golden Vegetable Rice Pilaf would complement the savory skillet beautifully. Or if you are craving something sweet and savory, why not try it with our Slow Cooker Cheesy Potatoes

Your Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Questions Answered (FAQ)

Can I use frozen broccoli?

While fresh broccoli is preferred for its texture and flavor, frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before adding it to the skillet to prevent it from becoming too soggy. Reduce the steaming time slightly, as frozen broccoli tends to cook faster than fresh.

Can I substitute the chicken sausage with another type of sausage?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of pre-cooked sausage, such as turkey sausage or beef sausage. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. Smoked sausage adds a particularly delicious flavor to the dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this skillet dinner is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some of the ingredients ahead of time to save time during the week. You can chop the vegetables, slice the sausage, and season the shrimp up to a day in advance. Store the ingredients separately in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover Shrimp and Sausage Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Enjoy Your Homemade Shrimp and Sausage Skillet!

There you have it: a foolproof Shrimp and Sausage Skillet recipe that guarantees perfectly cooked broccoli every single time! This quick, healthy, and flavorful one-pan meal is sure to become a weeknight staple in your household. So gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let us know how your skillet turned out!