Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Vegetable Sheet Pan: A Flavor-Packed One-Pan Meal

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal that doesn’t require a pile of dirty dishes, look no further than this Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Vegetable Sheet Pan recipe. 

It’s a one-pan wonder that’s bursting with bold Cajun flavors, packed with protein, and loaded with nutritious veggies. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute meal.

• Minimal Cleanup: Everything is cooked on a single sheet pan, reducing the time spent washing dishes.

• Flavorful and Spicy: Cajun seasoning brings a smoky, spicy kick that pairs perfectly with shrimp and sausage.

• Nutritious and Balanced: High in protein and packed with fiber-rich vegetables.

Ingredients

Protein:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 12 oz smoked sausage, sliced into rounds

Vegetables:

• 1 cup bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced

• 1 zucchini, sliced

• 1 yellow squash, sliced

• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

• 1/2 red onion, sliced

• 1 cup broccoli florets

Seasoning:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prep the Ingredients

• Peel and devein the shrimp if necessary.

• Slice the smoked sausage into rounds.

• Chop all the vegetables into even, bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Season Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, sausage, and vegetables. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Toss everything together until well coated.

Step 4: Arrange on the Sheet Pan

Spread the seasoned shrimp, sausage, and vegetables in an even layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not too crowded to allow for proper roasting.

Step 5: Roast in the Oven

Bake for about 15 minutes, then give everything a quick toss. Continue roasting for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the vegetables are tender-crisp.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the sheet pan from the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Sheet Pan Meal

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and vegetables will yield the best texture and flavor.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes.

• Even Cooking: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes to ensure even roasting.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Spread the ingredients out to promote even caramelization.

• Try Different Veggies: Swap in mushrooms, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for variety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry with a paper towel before seasoning to prevent excess moisture from affecting the roasting process.

2. What Type of Sausage Works Best?

Smoked sausage, Andouille sausage, or even turkey sausage work great for this recipe. Andouille sausage adds an extra authentic Cajun touch.

3. Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can prep all the ingredients in advance and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, just spread them on a sheet pan and bake.

4. How Can I Store Leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat.

5. Is This Recipe Keto-Friendly?

Yes! This dish is low in carbs, high in protein, and packed with healthy fats, making it a great keto-friendly meal.

6. Can I Cook This on the Grill Instead?

Absolutely! Use a grill basket to cook the shrimp, sausage, and vegetables over medium-high heat for about 10-15 minutes, tossing occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Sheet Pan meal is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• Steamed rice – Perfect for soaking up the bold Cajun flavors.

• Quinoa or cauliflower rice – A great low-carb alternative.

• Crusty bread – Ideal for scooping up all the juicy goodness.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Vegetable Sheet Pan recipe is an easy, delicious, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep, bold flavors, and quick cooking time, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!