Grandma’s Jambalaya

Grandma’s Jambalaya is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender chicken, shrimp, and flavorful sausage with rice and vegetables. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for busy weekdays. The unique blend of spices ensures every bite is packed with flavor, making it a standout choice for both casual gatherings and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious meal ready to bake in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of chicken, shrimp, and Jalapeño turkey sausage creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this jambalaya works great as a meal prep option for the week ahead.
• High Protein Content: Packed with protein from chicken, shrimp, and sausage, it’s ideal for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
• Low Fat Option: Using lean meats and cauliflower rice makes this a healthier version of traditional jambalaya without sacrificing taste.

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Tools and Preparation

To create Grandma’s Jambalaya, you’ll need some essential tools to help make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• 13 x 9 inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large mixing bowl: Keeps everything contained while mixing your ingredients together easily.
• 13 x 9 inch baking pan: Provides ample space for all the ingredients to cook evenly.
• Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture while baking for tender results.

Ingredients

Proteins

• 1/2 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded (Weighed raw)
• 1/2 pound shrimp
• 1 container (336g) Jalapeño Turkey sausage, HEB brand (only 3.5g f per serving)

Grains and Vegetables

• 3/4 cup white rice
• 3 green bell peppers, weighed 375g

Canned Goods

• 1 8oz can Tomato sauce
• 1 can of Mushroom stems and pieces, drained
• 1 can beef broth
• 1 can Campbell’s French onion soup

Seasonings

• Tony Charchere’s Seasoning, S&P, Tabasco Sauce

Additional Ingredients

• 1 bag cauliflower rice

How to Make Grandma’s Jambalaya

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°. This ensures that your jambalaya cooks evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Dump all ingredients except the sausage and shrimp into the sprayed 13 x 9 pan.
2. Stir to combine thoroughly.

Step 3: Add Sausage

Top the mixture with slices of Jalapeño turkey sausage evenly distributed over the top.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the pan with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for an hour and a half.

Step 5: Add Shrimp

When there are about 20 to 25 minutes remaining in baking time, add the shrimp on top of the jambalaya mixture. Press them down gently into the dish.

Step 6: Let Rest

After removing from the oven, if there is excess liquid remaining in the pan, remove the foil and let it sit for an hour. The liquid will absorb into the dish, enhancing flavors.

Enjoy your homemade Grandma’s Jambalaya!

How to Serve Grandma’s Jambalaya

Serving Grandma’s Jambalaya is all about enhancing the flavors and making the dish even more enjoyable. Here are some great suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Add Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Green onions: Thinly sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor that complements the jambalaya well.

Offer Hot Sauce

• Tabasco sauce: Provide a few drops for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat.
• Chili oil: Drizzle chili oil for a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the spices in the jambalaya.

Pair with Bread

• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a delicious, buttery complement.
• Cornbread: A piece of sweet cornbread adds a nice texture contrast and is always a hit.

Include a Salad

• Caesar salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing balances the hearty jambalaya.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide crunch and freshness alongside the rich dish.

How to Perfect Grandma’s Jambalaya

To ensure you create the best version of Grandma’s Jambalaya, consider these helpful tips. They will help you achieve perfect results every time.

• Use quality ingredients: Fresh chicken, shrimp, and flavorful sausage make a significant difference in taste.
• Monitor cooking time: Keep an eye on your jambalaya as it cooks to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking for balanced flavors that suit your preferences.
• Let it rest: Allowing the jambalaya to sit after baking helps all flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Grandma’s Jambalaya

Pairing sides with Grandma’s Jambalaya can enhance your meal. Here are some ideal choices that complement its rich flavors.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, it’s perfect for soaking up delicious juices.
2. Cornbread: Sweet and moist, cornbread adds a delightful contrast to savory jambalaya.
3. Caesar Salad: This classic salad provides crunchy romaine and creamy dressing, balancing out the dish nicely.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color to your plate.
5. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains offer a unique flavor profile that pairs well with savory dishes.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and a refreshing taste alongside hearty jambalaya.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grandma’s Jambalaya, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning – Not using enough seasoning can lead to bland jambalaya. Always taste and adjust your spices like Tony Chachere’s for a flavorful result.
• Overcooking the shrimp – Shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. Add them in during the last 20-25 minutes of baking for the best texture.
• Using uncooked rice – Ensure you use cooked rice or properly measure uncooked rice to avoid an undercooked texture. Follow the recipe carefully for perfect results.
• Ignoring liquid levels – Too much or too little liquid can drastically change your jambalaya’s consistency. Always check before serving; if there’s too much, let it sit uncovered.
• Not covering while baking – Leaving the dish uncovered while baking can lead to excessive drying. Cover with aluminum foil during cooking to retain moisture.
• Neglecting to stir well – Not mixing all ingredients properly could lead to uneven cooking. Make sure everything is well-combined before adding sausage on top.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Grandma’s Jambalaya

• Freeze in portioned containers for easy meals later.
• Use within 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grandma’s Jambalaya

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 20 minutes).
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop – Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Grandma’s Jambalaya that might help you out.

What makes Grandma’s Jambalaya special?

Grandma’s Jambalaya is special because it combines simple ingredients with love and tradition. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting meal.

Can I customize Grandma’s Jambalaya?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins like sausage or chicken based on preference or dietary needs.

Is Grandma’s Jambalaya healthy?

Yes! This recipe is relatively low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy option when prepared with care.

How do I store leftover Grandma’s Jambalaya?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Grandma’s Jambalaya is not just a meal; it’s a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy to any table. With its versatile ingredients, you can easily customize this recipe according to your preferences. Try it out today!