Jambalaya Recipe for One: Satisfyingly Solo Feast

Last updated on June 7, 2024

Jambalaya is a spicy, savory dish from Louisiana that mixes together rice, chicken, sausage, and shrimp in one flavorful pot.

Craving a bit of southern comfort but cooking for one? Look no further; this jambalaya recipe is your ticket to flavor town with a single-serving twist! Grab your apron, and let’s dive into a pot of spiced-up, saucy goodness just for you—promise we won’t leave out any secrets.

Jambalaya For One

jambalaya for one

Ah, Jambalaya! The rollicking, jazz-infused soul of New Orleans on your plate. This one-dish wonder combines spicy sausage, juicy shrimp, and a mélange of veggies topped with aromatic spices. All cooked into a harmonious, flavor-packed fiesta that’s perfect for solo indulgence.

  • Cooking Method: Sautéing and Simmering
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Cuisine: Creole

Ingredients

  • 1 Tbsp olive oil
  • 2 oz smoked sausage, sliced
  • 3 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 stalk celery, diced
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup long-grain rice
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup crushed tomatoes
  • 1/4 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 green onion, sliced (for garnish)
  • Parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until slightly browned, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. Throw in the shrimp, cook 1-2 minutes, then remove both shrimp and sausage from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Sauté until veggies are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  5. Add the minced garlic, cooking for another 30 seconds. If it starts talking back, you’re doing it right!
  6. Introduce the rice to the party, making sure it’s quickly coated in all that goodness.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine.
  8. Sprinkle in the paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
  9. Reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Sneak in a dance break while waiting!
  10. Return the sausage and shrimp to the skillet. Cook another 2-3 minutes until shrimp is opaque and heated through.
  11. Garnish with sliced green onion and chopped parsley. Voilà, your solo New Orleans feast awaits!

Suggestions

  • Alternative Ingredients: Try chicken instead of shrimp, or mix in some crab meat if you’re feeling fancy.
  • Garnishing Options: Add a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Cooking Tips: Keep an eye on the rice. If it’s sticking, you might need a splash more broth. Don’t worry, it’s just thirsty.