Cheesy Shrimp Sausage Bacon Skillet
A savory one-pan meal with tender shrimp, smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and creamy melted cheese, perfect for quick dinners or casual gatherings.
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
- 1 slotted spoon
Ingredients
- 8 oz peeled and deveined shrimp
- 7 oz smoked sausage sliced
- 6 to 8 slices bacon chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil optional
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 to 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 1/2 to 2 cups shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook chopped bacon until crisp.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving some rendered fat in the pan.
- Add sliced smoked sausage and cook 3 to 4 minutes until lightly browned, then remove and set aside with the bacon.
- If needed, add olive oil to the skillet, then sauté chopped onion about 3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook 2 to 3 minutes until just turning pink, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually stir in shredded cheese until melted and smooth.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Return cooked bacon and sausage to the skillet, stirring gently to coat with the cheesy sauce and heat through for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Serve hot from the skillet alone or over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Use a cheddar and Monterey Jack blend for best melt and flavor.
- Add hot sauce or cayenne for extra spice.
- Incorporate bell peppers, spinach, or peas for more color and texture.
- Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain creamy sauce.