Name: Keto Shrimp and Sausage Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1/2 lb smoked sausage (sliced); 1 medium zucchini (sliced into half-moons); 1 bell pepper (sliced); 2 cups spinach (fresh); 1/2 onion (sliced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tbsp olive oil or butter; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Salt and pepper (to taste); Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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If you’re looking for a meal that’s high in flavor, low in carbs, and a breeze to make, you’ve hit the jackpot with this Keto Shrimp and Sausage Skillet. It’s got a delicious mix of juicy shrimp, spicy sausage, and veggies all cooked up in one pan for a quick, satisfying dish. Whether you’re deep into your keto journey or just starting to dip your toes in, this meal checks all the boxes: high in protein, packed with healthy fats, and low in carbs.

Not to mention, it’s a weeknight dream. We’re talking 30 minutes from fridge to table. No mountains of dirty dishes piling up, just one skillet and done! Plus, the combination of shrimp and sausage is like a flavor explosion — the shrimp brings in that fresh, ocean taste, while the sausage offers a smoky, spicy kick that takes everything up a notch.

Why Shrimp and Sausage Work So Well Together

You might not think shrimp and sausage would be a match made in heaven, but they’re one of those duos that just works. Sausage, especially smoked or spicy sausage, adds a savory, hearty punch that complements the sweetness of the shrimp. The fats in the sausage also play well with the lean protein in shrimp, balancing the dish while keeping it keto-friendly.

When these two come together in a skillet, it creates an irresistible blend of flavors that satisfies cravings without knocking you off your keto track. Plus, both cook quickly, meaning you won’t be spending an hour in the kitchen. Fast and flavorful — exactly what you need on a busy night!

What Makes This Recipe Keto?

Keto is all about keeping carbs low and fats high, right? This shrimp and sausage skillet fits the bill perfectly. Shrimp is naturally low in carbs and fat, making it an ideal protein for keto, while sausage (especially the right kind) is loaded with fats and flavors. Add in some keto-approved veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach, and you’ve got a meal that stays well within your daily carb limit while keeping you full and energized.

And don’t worry — we’re skipping any carby ingredients like potatoes or pasta and replacing them with nutrient-dense, low-carb veggies. You can even top it off with a little cheese or avocado for extra fats if you want to get fancy.

Let’s dive into what you’ll need to get started.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into this simple, but super-tasty Keto Shrimp and Sausage Skillet:

Protein and Fats:

1 lb of shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Shrimp is the star of the show and a great source of lean protein.
1/2 lb of smoked sausage (sliced) – You can use andouille, chorizo, or any sausage that fits your flavor preference. Just make sure it’s low-carb!

Veggies:

1 medium zucchini (sliced into half-moons) – Zucchini adds bulk without carbs.
1 bell pepper (sliced) – Choose any color! Red, green, yellow—they all bring a bit of sweetness.
2 cups of spinach – Fresh spinach wilts beautifully into the dish and adds some extra nutrients.
1/2 an onion (sliced) – Onions bring a touch of sweetness and depth.
3 cloves of garlic (minced) – Because garlic makes everything better.

Fats & Seasonings:

2 tbsp of olive oil or butter – Helps to sauté the sausage and shrimp while adding good fats.
1 tsp of paprika – For some smoky depth.
1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper – For a bit of heat (optional).
Salt and pepper to taste – Always a must.
Juice of 1 lemon – To brighten up all the flavors and cut through the richness.
Fresh parsley for garnish – Adds a pop of color and freshness.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prep the Shrimp and Sausage

Start by getting all your ingredients ready. Slice your smoked sausage into bite-sized rounds, and if your shrimp isn’t pre-prepped, go ahead and peel and devein it. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel so they don’t steam in the skillet.

2. Sauté the Sausage

Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter. Once the oil is hot, add the sliced sausage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and crispy around the edges. This caramelization is where a lot of flavor comes from, so don’t rush it!

Once browned, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.

3. Cook the Veggies

In the same skillet, toss in your sliced onions and bell peppers. You may need to add a little more olive oil or butter, depending on how much fat the sausage released. Cook the veggies for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.

Add the zucchini slices and garlic next. Sauté for another 3 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still firm (no one likes mushy zucchini). Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and a pinch of cayenne if you’re a fan of spicy flavors.

4. Add the Shrimp

Now it’s shrimp time! Push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the shrimp to the center. Shrimp cooks fast — about 2-3 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque.

Pro tip: Don’t overcook your shrimp! They’ll go from tender and juicy to rubbery in a flash, so keep a close eye on them.

5. Combine Everything

Once the shrimp is done, add the sausage back to the skillet, along with the spinach. Stir everything together and cook for another minute or two until the spinach wilts.

Finally, squeeze the juice of one lemon over the entire skillet to bring all the flavors together. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

6. Garnish and Serve

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve it right out of the skillet for a rustic, no-fuss presentation.

What to Serve with Your Keto Shrimp and Sausage Skillet

This dish is pretty much a complete meal on its own, but if you want to bulk it up or serve it to guests, here are a few low-carb sides that pair perfectly:

Cauliflower Rice: It soaks up all those tasty juices from the shrimp and sausage.
Zoodles (Zucchini Noodles): Keeps things keto and adds extra veg to your meal.
Avocado Slices: Adds creaminess and extra fats to keep you fuller longer.
Side Salad: A light, fresh salad with a lemon vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the skillet.

Variations and Tips for the Perfect Keto Skillet

One of the best things about a skillet meal is how easy it is to customize. Here are a few tweaks you can make depending on your preferences:

Sausage Options:

Andouille: Spicy and smoky, perfect if you like a Cajun twist.
Chorizo: Adds a bit more heat and a rich, spicy flavor.
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy Italian sausage if you’re looking for more herbs and less smoke.

Veggie Swaps:

Mushrooms: If you’re a fan of umami flavors, throw in some mushrooms with your zucchini.
Broccoli or Cauliflower: Both work well in place of, or alongside, the zucchini for more crunch and variety.

Seasoning Adjustments:

If you like things spicier, feel free to up the cayenne or toss in some crushed red pepper flakes.
For a more Mediterranean flavor, sprinkle some oregano or thyme into the skillet.

Meal Prep Tips:

This skillet dish stores really well! Make a big batch and portion it out into containers for meal prep. It’ll last about 3-4 days in the fridge, so you’re set for the week.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving (this recipe makes about 4 servings):

Calories: 300-350
Fat: 20-25g
Protein: 25-30g
Carbs: 5-7g net carbs

This dish is an ideal balance for keto, providing a high protein content from the shrimp and sausage, with plenty of fats from the sausage and olive oil. Plus, the carbs are kept low thanks to the selection of non-starchy veggies.

Conclusion

The Keto Shrimp and Sausage Skillet is more than just a quick weeknight dinner — it’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that’ll keep you on track with your keto goals without sacrificing taste. Whether you’re looking to shake up your dinner routine or impress some guests with a low-carb meal, this recipe delivers big on all fronts.

So next time you’re in the mood for something hearty but keto-friendly, give this skillet a try. It’s got all the richness and flavor you crave, minus the carbs.