Spicy Southern Jambalaya Recipe – A Fiery Delight!
Welcome to my kitchen, where we celebrate the bold and vibrant flavors of southern-style cuisine. Today, I’ll be sharing with you a recipe that embodies the heart and soul of New Orleans: Southern Jambalaya in a Casserole Dish.
This dish is a feast for your senses, with aromatic thyme, parsley, and garlic cloves that will make your mouth water. The base of this recipe is rice, which acts as a vessel to capture all the robust flavors of the ingredients simmered together.
Jambalaya is a staple in southern cooking, and this recipe is no exception. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or craving something hearty for your weeknight meal, this one-pot wonder is easy to make and incredibly delicious. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to practice your culinary skills by using various proteins like pork, sausage, chicken, or shrimp.
Are you ready to embark on a journey to the Big Easy? Grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
My dear southern cuisine fans, today I bring you a delicious and authentic recipe that is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your tastebuds. Allow me to introduce you to the Southern Jambalaya in a Casserole Dish Recipe!
Now you may be wondering, “Why should I try this recipe?” Well, let me tell you why you’ll love it!
Firstly, this recipe is an easy and delicious take on the classic jambalaya recipe. It calls for simple ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less clean-up for you to worry about.
Secondly, this recipe is versatile with options to substitute or add ingredients to meet your preferences. You can switch up the protein with chicken, shrimp or sausage – whatever suits your taste buds.
Thirdly, this recipe yields a hearty and satisfying dish that can feed a large crowd or make great leftovers for meal prep during the week. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not make it ahead of time and freeze it for a convenient weeknight meal?
Finally, this recipe is chock-full of flavor! With spices like black pepper, salt, chili powder, parsley and thyme included in the ingredient list – you won’t be disappointed in its bold taste.
In conclusion, trying out this Southern Jambalaya in a Casserole Dish Recipe will not only transport your taste buds straight to New Orleans but also make cooking so much more enjoyable. So what are you waiting for? Gather up these ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredient List
Let’s gather our ingredients for this southern-style Jambalaya in a Casserole Dish recipe. Don’t fret, these ingredients should be readily available at your local grocery store or farmers’ market.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (optional)
- 1⁄4 cup of vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 green pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 3 cups of chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons of thyme
- 2 teaspoons of chili powder
- 1 tablespoon of salt (or to taste)
- 2 teaspoons of black pepper (or to taste)
- 3 cups of rice (preferably long-grain)
These are the essential ingredients that makes this recipe authentic Southern jambalaya dish. Trust me; the result will be well worth the effort!
The Recipe How-To
Now we’ve reached the good part – making the Southern Jambalaya dish in a casserole dish. If you’re anything like me, you don’t want to spend all day in the kitchen cooking up a storm. That’s why I created this one pot recipe. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow directions, you’ll be able to create a delicious and authentic Southern-style jambalaya in no time!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cubed 1-inch pieces
- 1 pound Cajun chicken sausage (can substitute with any pork or chicken sausage)
- 1/2 pound cooked and cubed ham (optional)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups uncooked rice
Seasonings:
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
Get ready to loosen up those arms! We’re going to start chopping and sautéing!
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Start off by heating up your oven to 375°F.
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In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the vegetables (bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic) with the oil until they become tender.
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Add your pre-cooked meats into the pot along with the sausages! Cook for a few minutes until everything is heated through and browned on the outside.
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Next, stir in the diced tomatoes including their liquid, chicken broth, rice, and all of the seasonings to the pot.
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Bring everything to a boil and then immediately transfer it to an oven-safe casserole dish.
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Cover the dish tightly with a lid or aluminum foil and baked it in your preheated oven for 35 minutes.
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After 35 minutes, remove the dish from the oven and give it a little peek underneath the lid or aluminum foil.
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Finally, sprinkle some fresh parsley overtop and serve.
Tips for Perfect Results
- To add a tasteful kick to your jambalaya dish, try using Andouille Sausage!
- Using chicken thighs adds a wonderful flavor, but you can substitute any type of boneless skinless chicken.
- In addition to smoked sausage, feel free to add shrimp, cooked crab meat or crawfish tails.
- For those with food restrictions or preferences, this recipe is Whole30 compliant and can be
Substitutions and Variations
Welcome to the world of endless possibilities, where you can be innovative and creative without sacrificing taste or authenticity. This section has got you covered with amazing substitutions and variations for those who want to try something new or who have dietary restrictions.
One of the best substitutions for pork in this jambalaya dish is turkey sausage. It’s a healthy alternative perfect for those watching their fat and calorie intake. For a seafood twist, use shrimp or crawfish instead of chicken or pork, which also makes it Whole30 approved. The kick of spice is essential for any jambalaya recipe, but if you’re not a fan of heat, swap out the chili powder or cayenne pepper with paprika for a milder flavor.
Are you on a plant-based diet? No problem! Substitute the meat with mushrooms or tofu and replace the chicken broth with vegetable stock. It still retains the traditional jambalaya flavor while being entirely plant-based – it’s a win-win!
If you’re aiming for a tex-mex flair, try adding black beans, diced green chilies and corn to your one-pot rice dish. For an indulgent twist, leave out the rice altogether and turn it into a stuffing by baking it in a bell pepper or using it as a filling for a burrito.
In terms of variations, there are numerous ways to modify this jambalaya rice recipe. One option is to turn it into a casserole dish by mixing the cooked rice and protein with creamy cheese sauce before topping it with bread crumbs and baking in the oven. Another exciting way is using this recipe as a base for gumbo or creole by adjusting the ingredient ratios slightly.
Get experimental and make this recipe your own, be sure to share your own unique spin on social media so that everyone can know about your delicious creations!
Serving and Pairing
I gotta tell you, this Southern Jambalaya in a Casserole Dish recipe is hard to beat when it comes to pairing with other dishes. It’s a meal in itself and doesn’t require any sides, but if you’re feeling extra hungry or want to make this recipe stretch even further, I have a few recommendations.
Firstly, you could serve it up with some crusty bread on the side, perfect for mopping up those tomato and vegetable juices at the bottom of the dish. If you’re feeling like going all-out Southern-style, pair it up with some cornbread. Trust me, that sweet cornbread will be the perfect counterbalance to the savory and spicy flavors of the jambalaya.
Another option is to serve it over rice or even grits. The creamy grits will absorb that flavorful broth and create a luxurious texture that’ll take your taste buds straight to New Orleans.
Now let’s talk about beverages- for me, there’s no better pairing than a cold beer (or two) when enjoying Southern-style meals. A light lager or pilsner or even an amber ale pairs really well with jambalaya.
For wine lovers, an oaky Chardonnay or Zinfandel can elevate the experience by adding depth of flavor and balancing out the heat/spice of the dish. And if all else fails, just pour yourself a tall glass of iced tea- it’s a southern classic for a reason!
I hope these suggestions help elevate your jambalaya experience even more. But regardless of what sides or drinks you choose, this cajun pork jambalaya deserves to take center stage in your dining table.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Are you looking to save time and energy in the kitchen by making this Southern Jambalaya in a Casserole Dish ahead of time? Then, look no further! This recipe is perfect for meal prep or large gatherings since it can be stored and reheated easily.
To prepare beforehand, simply cook the jambalaya according to the recipe instructions and let it cool completely. Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days before reheating.
To reheat the dish, take it out of the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature before you start reheating. You can reheat the jambalaya in two ways: on the stovetop or in the oven.
For stovetop reheating, place the refrigerated jambalaya in a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the rice grains, stir frequently and cover with a lid. After 10-12 minutes, your jambalaya should be piping hot and ready to serve.
For oven reheating preheat your oven to 350°F (170°C) and transfer your jambalaya into an oven-safe baking dish. Add a splash of chicken broth over the casserole, recover with foil then bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
You can spruce up your leftovers by adding some diced tomatoes, green peppers or more fried onions before reheating making your whole30 compliant southern jambalaya taste just as delicious as when it was first made!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to cooking Southern Jambalaya, there are a few tips and tricks that can help elevate your dish from good to extraordinary. As a chef specializing in southern-style cuisine, I have tested and experimented with various techniques over the years to achieve the perfect jambalaya. Here are my top tips for perfect results every time.
1. Use quality ingredients
The quality of your jambalaya depends heavily on the ingredients you use. For the best results, opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients. Use whole cuts of boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts and authentic Andouille sausage or smoked sausage. Fresh herbs like parsley and thyme will make all the difference as well.
2. Sauté vegetables before adding them
Sautéing the onion, garlic, and green pepper before adding them to the pot adds depth and flavor to your jambalaya. Cook them down until they’re slightly caramelized and softened to release all their aromas.
3. Cook rice correctly
Rice is a crucial component in jambalaya, and cooking it properly is key to achieving the right taste and texture. Rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking and add it to the pan once your meat and vegetables are fully cooked. This allows the rice to absorb all the flavors from the other ingredients.
4. Don’t skip the seasoning
Proper seasoning is critical in making authentic jambalaya. Use a blend of chili powder, black pepper, salt, and any other Cajun seasoning you prefer to season your dish to perfection. This will give your jambalaya that signature kick that southern-style cuisine is known for.
5. Let it simmer for longer
Jambalaya tastes even better if you let it simmer for a little extra time after cooking everything together. Once you’ve mixed all your ingredients together in a pot or baking dish, cover with foil or a lid and let it sit on low heat for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This will give the flavors more time to mingle and intensify.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to make a perfect Southern Jambalaya that is sure to impress all your guests. Just remember, jambalaya is a dish that is meant to be savored and enjoyed; take your time when cooking, and enjoy the process.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, southern jambalaya in a casserole dish is an absolute must-try. With the perfect balance of spicy and smoky flavors, this authentic Creole recipe brings the heat of New Orleans straight to your kitchen. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to make, full of protein-rich ingredients, and can be customized to suit your taste buds.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a large get-together with friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed on its own or paired with various side dishes.
Overall, the recipe is easy to follow and very forgiving, allowing you to experiment with different meats and seafood or stick with classic ingredients like sausage and shrimp. So why not give it a try? Whip up a batch today and indulge in the rich flavors of southern jambalaya – your taste buds will thank you!
Southern Jambalaya in a Casserole Dish Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons shortening
- 1 cup onion, chopped
- 1 cup green pepper, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken
- 1 1/2 cups ham, cubed
- 12 small pork, links cut
- 2 1/2 cups canned tomatoes
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup rice (uncooked)
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Melt shortening in a large dutch oven. Add onion, green peppers, and garlic. Cook slowly, stirring often, until tender.
- Add chicken, ham and sausage. Cook 5 minutes longer.
- Add tomatoes, uncooked rice, and chicken broth.
- Add thyme, parsley, chili powder, salt and pepper.
- Place mixture in a large greased casserole dish, cover, and place in a 350 oven for 50 to0 60 minutes or until rice is done and liquid is absorbed.
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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