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Nothing embodies Southern comfort like a steaming bowl of gumbo — a rich, hearty stew bursting with bold Cajun spices, tender shrimp, sausage, and fresh vegetables. This Crockpot Gumbo with Sausage and Shrimp recipe brings the authentic flavors of Louisiana right to your kitchen, with the ease of slow cooking and no pork or alcohol.
Ideal for cozy family dinners or entertaining guests, this slow cooker gumbo features a savory chicken sausage in place of traditional andouille, plump shrimp, and the classic trinity of Cajun cooking — bell peppers, celery, and onions — along with okra for that signature texture. Served over fluffy white rice, it’s a timeless Southern classic that’s both soul-satisfying and easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Gumbo
Authentic Cajun flavors: Robust seasoning and smoky notes without pork or alcohol.
Easy slow cooker recipe: Minimal hands-on time, slow-simmered for deep flavor.
Protein-packed: A satisfying mix of shrimp and flavorful chicken sausage.
Classic veggies: Includes okra, bell peppers, celery, and onions for true gumbo texture.
Perfect for entertaining: Impress guests with a rich, comforting dish.
Make ahead friendly: Flavors improve overnight, and leftovers freeze well.
Ingredients
For the Gumbo
1 lb chicken sausage (andouille-style or spicy chicken sausage, sliced)
1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 large onion, diced
1 green bell pepper, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups okra, sliced (fresh or frozen)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cooked white rice, for serving
Fresh parsley and green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
Crockpot or slow cooker (4-6 quart)
Skillet or frying pan
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board
Stirring spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Brown the sliced chicken sausage for 3-4 minutes until lightly caramelized. This enhances flavor and texture. Transfer sausage to the crockpot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Sauté diced onions, bell peppers, and celery for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Transfer veggies to the crockpot.
Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients to Crockpot
To the crockpot, add browned sausage, sautéed vegetables, sliced okra, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato paste, chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours. The flavors will deepen, and the okra will tenderize, thickening the gumbo naturally.
Step 5: Add Shrimp and Finish Cooking
About 30 minutes before serving, add peeled and deveined shrimp to the crockpot. Stir gently and cover. Cook on LOW for 25-30 minutes until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Remove bay leaves. Ladle gumbo over cooked white rice and garnish with fresh parsley and sliced green onions.
Tips for the Best Crockpot Gumbo
Sausage choice: Use a flavorful chicken or turkey sausage seasoned with Cajun spices to mimic andouille without pork.
Okra: Fresh is best, but frozen okra works well and helps thicken the stew.
Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and cayenne to suit your preferred heat level.
Thickening: If the gumbo is thinner than you like, remove the lid for the last 30 minutes of cooking to reduce liquid.
Rice: Use long-grain white rice or jasmine for classic pairing.
Meal prep: Gumbo tastes even better the next day; refrigerate leftovers and reheat gently.
Nutritional Benefits
Lean protein: Shrimp and chicken sausage provide high-quality protein with less saturated fat than pork sausage.
Vegetable-rich: Loaded with fiber and vitamins from bell peppers, celery, onions, and okra.
Low carb option: Serve with cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free if you check seasoning labels.
How to Customize Your Gumbo
Add mushrooms or okra-free version if you dislike okra.
For a spicier gumbo, increase cayenne or add hot sauce at the table.
Swap shrimp with crab meat or firm white fish for variety.
Stir in chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for herbaceous brightness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this gumbo without shrimp?
Yes! You can omit shrimp and add extra sausage or other seafood like crab meat or firm fish. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What if I can’t find andouille-style chicken sausage?
Use any spicy chicken or turkey sausage you like, or season regular chicken sausage with smoked paprika and Cajun spices.
Is gumbo gluten-free?
This recipe is gluten-free as long as the sausage and seasonings don’t contain gluten. Always check labels.
Can I make gumbo ahead of time?
Definitely! Gumbo flavors develop beautifully overnight. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with gumbo?
Traditional gumbo is served over white rice. Cornbread and collard greens are classic Southern sides that pair wonderfully.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Cajun Gumbo with Sausage & Shrimp is a true celebration of Southern flavors, made easy with the convenience of a crockpot. Without pork, bacon, wine, or alcohol, this recipe respects dietary preferences while still capturing the bold, smoky, and spicy essence of authentic Louisiana gumbo.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving a soul-warming meal after a busy day, this gumbo delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Serve it over fluffy rice, garnish with fresh herbs, and enjoy a taste of Cajun comfort right at home.
