Low Carb Shrimp Sausage: Craving a flavorful and satisfying meal that won’t derail your healthy eating goals? Look no further! This recipe delivers a delightful combination of succulent shrimp and savory sausage, all while keeping the carb count impressively low. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender shrimp, perfectly seasoned and paired with the robust flavors of your favorite sausage it’s a culinary match made in heaven!

While shrimp and sausage might seem like a modern pairing, the concept of combining seafood and cured meats has roots in various culinary traditions around the world. Think of Spanish paella, where chorizo and seafood mingle harmoniously, or the classic surf and turf. This low carb shrimp sausage recipe takes that inspiration and adapts it for a healthier lifestyle.

People adore this dish for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly delicious! The contrasting textures and flavors create a truly satisfying experience. Second, it’s surprisingly easy and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights. And finally, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a protein-packed meal without the guilt. Whether you’re following a ketogenic diet, watching your carbohydrate intake, or simply looking for a healthy and flavorful dinner option, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Get ready to experience a burst of flavor with every bite!

Ingredients:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound Italian sausage (pork or chicken), casings removed
1 large onion, chopped
2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained
1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles (for serving, optional)

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetables:

Get started by prepping your ingredients. Chop the onion and bell peppers into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic. Make sure your shrimp is peeled and deveined. This will save you time later and make the cooking process smoother.
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside in a bowl. Leave any rendered fat in the skillet this will add flavor to the vegetables.
Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and slightly caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. This step is crucial for developing the flavor base of the dish. Don’t rush it!
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Combining the Ingredients and Simmering:

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables.
Add the diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes, or up to 30 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the sausage and canned tomatoes already contain salt, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Adding the Shrimp and Finishing the Dish:

Increase the heat to medium. Add the shrimp to the skillet and stir to combine.
Cook the shrimp for about 3-5 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Remove the skillet from the heat.
Stir in the fresh parsley.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the Low Carb Shrimp and Sausage immediately.
For a low-carb meal, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. You can also enjoy it on its own or with a side salad.
Garnish with extra fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

Spice it up! If you like a lot of heat, add more cayenne pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also use a spicier Italian sausage.
Add more vegetables. Feel free to add other low-carb vegetables to the dish, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Add them along with the onions and bell peppers.
Use different types of sausage. Andouille sausage or chorizo would also be delicious in this recipe.
Make it creamy. For a creamier sauce, stir in a tablespoon or two of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors of the dish.
Make it ahead of time. This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. The flavors will actually improve as it sits. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Instructions: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
If you don’t have Rotel: You can substitute with regular diced tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeno pepper.
For a thicker sauce: Simmer uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a small amount of xanthan gum (start with 1/4 teaspoon) to thicken the sauce.
To prevent shrimp from overcooking: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook them in batches if necessary.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 350-450 per serving (depending on serving size and ingredients)
Net Carbs: Approximately 5-10 grams per serving (depending on vegetables used)
Protein: Approximately 30-40 grams per serving
Fat: Approximately 20-30 grams per serving

Why This Recipe Works:

This Low Carb Shrimp and Sausage recipe is a winner for several reasons:

Flavorful and satisfying: The combination of Italian sausage, shrimp, and flavorful vegetables creates a dish that is both delicious and satisfying.
Easy to make: This recipe is relatively simple to prepare and doesn’t require any special cooking skills.
Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or types of sausage.
Low-carb and healthy: This recipe is a great option for those following a low-carb or ketogenic diet. It’s also packed with protein and nutrients.
Quick cooking time: From start to finish, this dish can be on your table in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
One-pan meal: The entire dish is cooked in one skillet or Dutch oven, which means fewer dishes to wash!

Troubleshooting:

Shrimp is overcooked: Reduce the cooking time for the shrimp. They should be pink and opaque, but still slightly tender.
Sauce is too thin: Simmer the sauce uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a small amount of xanthan gum to thicken it.
Dish is too spicy: Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to cool it down.
Dish is too bland: Add more Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or salt and pepper. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
Vegetables are not cooked through: Make sure to chop the vegetables into small enough pieces and cook them until they are softened and slightly caramelized.

Equipment You’ll Need:

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Knife
Spoon or spatula

Serving Suggestions for Guests:

When serving this dish to guests, consider these tips:

Presentation matters: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley and serve it in a nice serving bowl.
Offer a variety of sides: Provide options for your guests, such as cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a side salad.
Consider dietary restrictions: Ask your guests about any dietary restrictions or allergies they may have.
Provide serving utensils: Make sure to have serving spoons and forks available for your guests.
Offer drinks: Serve the dish with a refreshing beverage, such as sparkling water, iced tea, or a glass of wine.

Making it Kid-Friendly:

If you’re serving this dish to children, here are some tips to make it more appealing:

Reduce the spice

Conclusion:

This Low Carb Shrimp Sausage recipe isn’t just another dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! I truly believe you’ll be hooked from the very first bite. The combination of succulent shrimp, savory sausage, and vibrant spices creates a symphony of tastes that’s both satisfying and incredibly easy to prepare. If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal that won’t derail your low-carb goals, then look no further. This recipe is a game-changer.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy Italian sausage will add a fiery kick, while Andouille sausage will bring a smoky depth. For a milder flavor, try using chicken or turkey sausage. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat, or omit them altogether for a more subtle flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

I love serving this Low Carb Shrimp Sausage over a bed of cauliflower rice for a complete and satisfying meal. The cauliflower rice soaks up all the delicious sauce, making every bite a delight. Alternatively, you could serve it with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a different low-carb option. For a heartier meal, consider adding some chopped bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the skillet while cooking. These vegetables will add extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.

Another fantastic variation is to use this mixture as a filling for stuffed bell peppers. Simply halve some bell peppers, remove the seeds, and fill them with the cooked shrimp and sausage mixture. Bake them in the oven until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through. Top with a sprinkle of cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

If you’re looking for a quick and easy appetizer, you can serve this Low Carb Shrimp Sausage mixture on top of toasted baguette slices or cucumber rounds. It’s a perfect party snack that’s sure to impress your guests. You could even use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a light and refreshing meal.

Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and flavors. The possibilities are endless! This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to customize it to your own taste preferences.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. I’m confident that it will become a staple in your low-carb meal rotation. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor what more could you ask for?

So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen and whip up a batch of this amazing Low Carb Shrimp Sausage. I promise you won’t be disappointed. And when you do, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear what you think and see your own creative variations. Tag me in your photos on social media and let me know how it turned out. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to see what you create!

Low Carb Shrimp Sausage: The Ultimate Guide to Delicious & Healthy Recipes

Flavorful, easy low-carb shrimp and sausage skillet with Italian sausage, shrimp, bell peppers, and diced tomatoes in a savory broth. Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Prep Time15 minutes

Cook Time30 minutes

Total Time45 minutes

Category: Dinner

Yield: 4-6 servings

Save This Recipe

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 pound Italian sausage (pork or chicken), casings removed

1 large onion, chopped

2 bell peppers (any color), chopped

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (10 ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained

1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles (for serving, optional)

Instructions

Prep Ingredients: Chop the onion and bell peppers. Mince the garlic. Ensure shrimp is peeled and deveined.

Cook Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned (5-7 minutes). Remove sausage and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables: Add chopped onion and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and slightly caramelized (8-10 minutes).

Add Garlic: Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked sausage to the skillet with the vegetables. Add diced tomatoes, Rotel tomatoes, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir well.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Season: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Add Shrimp: Increase heat to medium. Add shrimp and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until pink and opaque.

Finish: Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley.

Serve: Serve immediately over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.

Notes

Spice it up: Add more cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Add more vegetables: Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.

Use different types of sausage: Andouille sausage or chorizo.

Make it creamy: Stir in heavy cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking.

Add a squeeze of lemon juice: Brighten up the flavors.

Make it ahead of time: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Instructions: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

If you don’t have Rotel: Substitute with regular diced tomatoes and a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeno pepper.

For a thicker sauce: Simmer uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate. You can also add a small amount of xanthan gum (start with 1/4 teaspoon) to thicken the sauce.

To prevent shrimp from overcooking: Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp, and don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook them in batches if necessary.

Low Carb Shrimp Sausage: The Ultimate Guide to Delicious & Healthy Recipes