Are you craving a delicious, healthy meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This shrimp and Italian sausage skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's bursting with flavor, packed with protein, and surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is a fantastic example of how simple, homemade cooking can deliver big on taste. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea – a truly satisfying and delicious dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice!), casings removed
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 medium red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the ingredients: Start by removing the casings from the Italian sausage. Then, slice the bell peppers and red onion. Mince the garlic and chop the fresh basil. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process much smoother.
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Brown the sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a fantastic flavor base for the entire dish.
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Sauté the vegetables: Add the bell peppers and red onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the shrimp and seasonings: Add the shrimp, diced tomatoes (undrained), white wine (or chicken broth), oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
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Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cook until the shrimp is pink and cooked through, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it will become tough.
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Finish with basil: Stir in the fresh basil and serve immediately. This vibrant green herb adds a beautiful pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
Tips for the Best Shrimp and Italian Sausage Skillet:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a lot of sausage, you may need to brown it in batches to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Adjust the spice level: Use spicy Italian sausage for a spicier dish, or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Add some vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Serve it up: This delicious dish is fantastic served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Variations:
- Lemon-Herb Shrimp and Sausage: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with the basil for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Creamy Tomato Shrimp and Sausage: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 400-450 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 20-25g Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This shrimp and Italian sausage skillet is a quick, easy, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It's a delicious example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are perfect for busy weeknights, and it showcases the best of homemade cooking. Enjoy!