Description
This Authentic Cajun Gumbo recipe is a rich, comforting Southern classic made with andouille sausage, shrimp, and okra simmered in a deeply flavorful dark roux. Perfect for gatherings and weeknight meals alike. Discover how to make the best gumbo with bold Cajun flavors and hearty ingredients.
Ingredients
1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup okra, sliced
1 bell pepper, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 onion, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup flour
½ cup vegetable oil
6 cups chicken stock or seafood broth
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½ cup green onions, chopped
¼ cup parsley, chopped
Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions
1. In a large Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat and gradually stir in the flour to form a roux. Stir constantly for 20 to 30 minutes until it reaches a dark brown color, like chocolate.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 additional minute.
3. Add the sliced andouille sausage and brown for 2 to 3 minutes. Pour in the stock, stirring to deglaze the pot. Add Cajun seasoning, bay leaves, and thyme.
4. Bring the gumbo to a simmer. Add the sliced okra and cook uncovered for 20 to 30 minutes to meld the flavors.
5. Stir in the shrimp and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
6. Adjust seasoning to taste, remove bay leaves, and serve hot over cooked white rice. Garnish with green onions and parsley.
Notes
Take your time with the roux—it defines the gumbo’s depth and character.
Browning the sausage first can build additional flavor, especially if you deglaze with broth afterward.
For less viscosity, add okra later in the cooking process or use file powder instead.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun / Creole
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1350mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 145mg