How to Make Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo with Filé

This Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo with Filé is a comforting Louisiana classic reimagined with a lighter touch. Bursting with rich spices, tender shrimp, savory sausage, and the earthy depth of filé powder, it’s a soul-warming dish that brings Southern charm to your table. Perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving something bold, this gumbo is both satisfying and smart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Big Cajun Flavor – Packed with Creole seasoning and authentic ingredients.
Filé for Authenticity – Ground sassafras leaves add that signature gumbo texture and depth.
One-Pot Wonder – Everything simmers together for easy prep and big flavor.
Hearty Yet Light – A filling meal with lean protein and fewer calories.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp olive oil
• 6 oz lean turkey or chicken sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 12 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp filé powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
• Cooked brown rice, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Sausage and Veggies
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until lightly browned. Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened.

2. Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in diced tomatoes with their juice, chicken broth, paprika, Cajun seasoning, thyme, and cayenne (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes.

3. Add the Shrimp
Add shrimp to the pot and simmer for 4–5 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

4. Stir in Filé Powder
Turn off the heat and gently stir in the filé powder. Let the gumbo sit for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

5. Serve
Ladle gumbo into bowls. Serve over brown rice if desired, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 210
Protein: 21g
Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 4g
Fiber: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp – Just be sure they’re peeled and deveined for easy prep.
• Control the Heat – Adjust cayenne to your spice preference.
• Optional Rice – Add brown rice for a heartier meal, or skip it to keep things light.
• Don’t Skip the Filé – It’s essential for traditional gumbo flavor and slight thickening.

Why This Recipe Works

By using lean sausage, a generous portion of vegetables, and seasoning without excess fat, this gumbo delivers authentic Cajun flavor without the heaviness. The addition of filé powder ties everything together for a true taste of Louisiana in a healthier form.

This Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo with Filé is everything you crave from a classic Southern dish—rich, smoky, a little spicy, and deeply comforting. With wholesome ingredients and bold flavor, it’s a lighter way to enjoy a timeless favorite.