The Best Creole-Style Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo for Any Season

Warm, bold, and brimming with Southern soul, this Creole-Style Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo brings the spirit of Louisiana straight to your kitchen. It’s a hearty one-pot wonder filled with juicy shrimp, smoky sausage, and vibrant vegetables, all simmered in a richly seasoned broth. Perfect for cozy nights, meal prepping, or sharing with guests, this gumbo is packed with flavor and designed to satisfy — all while staying mindful of your wellness goals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Full of Flavor: Classic Creole spices and aromatics make each bite sing.
Balanced and Hearty: Protein-rich and loaded with veggies.
One-Pot Magic: Easy cleanup with maximum comfort.
Customizable: Swap proteins or add your own twists.
Great for Leftovers: Even better the next day!

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz chicken or turkey sausage, sliced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or whole wheat)
• 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, no salt added
• 2 tsp Creole seasoning
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 12 oz raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup okra (fresh or frozen)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
• Cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sausage slices and cook until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same pot, add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Make the Roux

Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 2–3 minutes, until the mixture is lightly golden and smells nutty.

Simmer the Gumbo

Slowly stir in the broth, scraping the bottom of the pot. Add diced tomatoes, Creole seasoning, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Return sausage to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

Add Shrimp and Okra

Stir in the shrimp and okra. Cook for another 5–7 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Remove the bay leaf. Ladle gumbo into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve on its own or over brown rice or cauliflower rice for a heartier meal.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 240
• Protein: 22g
• Fat: 9g
• Carbs: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Roux: This step adds depth and richness to the gumbo.
• Make It Spicier: Add cayenne or hot sauce to suit your taste.
• Add Greens: Stir in spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Let It Rest: Gumbo tastes even better the next day, once the flavors meld.
• Use What You Have: Swap shrimp for chicken or leave out okra if it’s not your thing.

Why This Recipe Works for Balanced Eating

This gumbo delivers big comfort-food energy without going overboard. Lean proteins like shrimp and turkey sausage keep it satisfying, while vegetables and spices add bulk and flavor without excess calories. It’s a beautiful blend of bold taste and mindful nutrition — a win for your palate and your plate.

If you’re craving a dish that’s soul-warming, satisfying, and full of New Orleans flair, this Creole-Style Shrimp and Sausage Gumbo checks all the boxes. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, yet impressive enough for guests. Serve it up with a sprinkle of parsley and a scoop of rice, and enjoy a bowlful of bold Southern comfort made with care.