If you’ve ever craved that soulful, spicy, and satisfying dish that screams comfort with a kick, then the Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe is about to become your new best friend. This one-pot wonder blends smoky Andouille sausage, tender shrimp, vibrant vegetables, and bold Cajun seasonings into a melody of flavors that tastes like a celebration in every bite. What’s even better is how effortless it is to bring this classic Louisiana favorite to life using your Instant Pot. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends with something special, this recipe captures all the magic of jambalaya with minimal fuss and maximum deliciousness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe lies in its combination of straightforward, quality ingredients that pack a punch both in flavor and texture. Each component works hand in hand to create the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and hearty notes that make this dish unforgettable.
- 12 oz Andouille Sausage: Adds that smoky, spicy backbone that jambalaya is famous for; slice it thin for quick cooking.
- Olive oil (or olive oil spray): Perfect for sautéing and lightly crisping the sausage and veggies without overpowering flavors.
- 1 medium onion (diced): Brings sweetness and depth to the base, softening as it cooks.
- 1 medium bell pepper (seeded and diced): Adds color and a bit of crisp freshness to balance the spices.
- 2 medium celery stalks: Provides that classic mirepoix crunchiness and subtle aromatic edge.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Imparts a fragrant punch that lifts the entire dish.
- 2 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning: The soul of the jambalaya seasoning blend, packed with herbs and spice.
- 1/2 tsp thyme: Brings subtle earthiness and complements the Cajun flavor perfectly.
- 1 cup long grain rice (not instant): The hearty base that soaks up all the rich flavors while keeping a nice bite.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (undrained): Adds a touch of acidity and moisture to keep everything tender.
- 2 cups low sodium chicken stock: The flavorful cooking liquid that infuses the rice and ingredients.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the natural goodness.
- 12 oz medium shrimp: Adds a sweet, tender seafood element to the jambalaya.
- 3 scallions: Freshly chopped as a bright, crunchy garnish to finish the dish.
How to Make Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by turning your Instant Pot onto sauté mode. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor. Toss in the sliced sausage, cooking it until each side is nicely browned and tempting. This step is key because browning intensifies that smoky heat and adds a lovely texture contrast. When the sausage is perfect, set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess grease, ensuring your jambalaya isn’t greasy but full of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Next, use the same pot to add your diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Stir and sauté them until they soften and release their natural sweetness, about five minutes. This creates a fragrant base that’s vibrant both in taste and color. These veggies are essential—they deliver the classic Cajun “holy trinity” and set the tone for all the gorgeous flavors that follow.
Step 3: Combine and Pressure Cook
Sprinkle in your Cajun seasoning and thyme over the softened vegetables, stirring to coat everything in those aromatic spices. Then pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken stock. Give it another good stir before adding in the long-grain rice, distributing it evenly throughout the pot. Seal the lid and cook at high pressure for 8 minutes. When the timer goes off, perform a quick release of the pressure—this step ensures the rice cooks perfectly and soaks up all the delicious liquid.
Step 4: Add Sausage and Shrimp, Finish Cooking
Open the pot and gently fold in the browned sausage and the raw shrimp, spreading them evenly through the rice mixture. Turn the Instant Pot off, close the lid, and let the shrimp cook gently in the residual heat for about 8 to 10 minutes. This yields juicy, tender shrimp that perfectly complement the smoky sausage and spicy rice. Finally, fluff the jambalaya and prepare for serving.
How to Serve Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh, finely sliced scallions are the perfect finishing touch for this Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe. Not only do they add a vibrant pop of green, but their sharp, fresh flavor balances the hearty and spicy elements wonderfully. Feel free to sprinkle a little extra Cajun seasoning or even a dash of hot sauce for an added zing!
Side Dishes
While this jambalaya is a complete meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables can make your meal even more satisfying. Cornbread or crusty French bread are excellent companions to mop up every last bit of flavorful sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive look, serve your jambalaya in small, rustic bowls topped with a lemon wedge to brighten the richness. You can also turn this into a party dish by scooping the jambalaya onto individual lettuce leaves or serving it over creamy grits for a Southern twist. No matter how you choose, this Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe is a showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover jambalaya stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors only deepen when refrigerated, making for a delicious next-day meal. Just keep in mind the shrimp might absorb more liquid, so gently fluff before reheating.
Freezing
If you want to freeze your jambalaya, let it cool completely and transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat your Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. Alternatively, microwave in 1-minute bursts, stirring in between until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the shrimp tender and the rice perfectly fluffy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While Andouille sausage is traditional for jambalaya thanks to its smoky heat, you can substitute with smoked kielbasa or even chorizo for a different but delightful flavor twist. Just be mindful of added spices.
What type of rice works best in this recipe?
Long grain rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and doesn’t clump together when pressure cooked. Avoid instant or quick-cooking rice as they can turn mushy and affect the texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the sausage and shrimp and adding hearty veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or plant-based sausage alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and season well for rich flavor.
How spicy is this jambalaya?
The heat level depends on the Cajun seasoning you choose. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount or opt for a mild seasoning blend. On the other hand, feel free to add hot sauce or cayenne pepper to ramp up the spice after cooking.
Can I cook the shrimp earlier in the process?
The shrimp is added at the end to ensure it stays tender and juicy. Cooking shrimp under pressure can make it rubbery, so letting it cook gently in residual heat gives the best texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the joy of sitting down to a hearty, flavorful meal that you made with ease and love. This Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe delivers all the iconic flavors of Louisiana with less time and effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights or welcoming guests. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a cherished favorite in your kitchen and your heart!
Print
Instant Pot Jambalaya Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun, Creole, Southern American
Description
This Instant Pot Jambalaya recipe is a flavorful and hearty one-pot meal combining spicy Andouille sausage, tender shrimp, and a medley of vegetables with Cajun seasonings and rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it uses the Instant Pot to meld the rich flavors while saving time without compromising taste.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 12 oz Andouille Sausage, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 12 oz medium shrimp
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium bell pepper, seeded and diced
- 2 medium celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Spices & Seasonings
- 2 1/2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- Salt to taste
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice (not instant)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups low sodium chicken stock
- Olive oil or olive oil spray (for sautéing)
Instructions
- Sauté Sausage: Turn your Instant Pot onto sauté mode and spray with olive oil. Place the sliced Andouille sausage into the bottom of the pot and cook until browned on each side. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the diced onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Rice: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, thyme, undrained diced tomatoes, and chicken stock. Then add the long grain rice and stir once more to combine all ingredients evenly. Close the Instant Pot lid securely.
- Pressure Cook: Set the Instant Pot to cook at high pressure for 8 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure.
- Add Shrimp and Sausage: Open the lid carefully, and add the cooked sausage and raw shrimp to the pot. Gently incorporate them into the mixture. Turn off the Instant Pot, close the lid again, and let the shrimp cook in the residual heat for 8-10 minutes until they turn pink and firm.
- Garnish and Serve: Open the lid, sprinkle the chopped scallions over the jambalaya for a fresh burst of flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Instant Pot jambalaya!
Notes
- Use long grain rice rather than instant rice for the best texture.
- If you prefer a spicy jambalaya, increase the Cajun seasoning slightly.
- Be sure not to overcook the shrimp; letting them cook in residual heat prevents them from becoming rubbery.
- You can substitute chicken stock with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure Cajun seasoning and sausage are gluten-free certified.
