Imagine a rich, hearty gumbo that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of New Orleans with just one spoonful. This Slow Cooker Smoked Sausage Gumbo is not just a meal—it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a flavor-packed masterpiece. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe promises to deliver restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort, making it the ultimate weeknight dinner solution that will have your family begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Creole
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups okra, sliced
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the smoked sausage into bite-sized pieces, chop the onion, bell pepper, and celery, and mince the garlic. Set these aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the sliced smoked sausage. Cook until the sausage is browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the flavor of the gumbo.
- Once the sausage is browned, transfer it to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, then add them to the slow cooker.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, sliced okra, and Cajun seasoning to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the smoked sausage may already be salty, so add salt gradually.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- After 6 hours, check the gumbo for seasoning and adjust if necessary. If you prefer a thicker gumbo, you can use a slotted spoon to remove some of the liquid or let it cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve the gumbo hot over a bed of cooked rice. Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Smoked Sausage Gumbo!
Tips
- Brown the sausage first: This extra step caramelizes the meat and adds depth to the overall flavor profile.
- Don't rush the cooking process: The 6-hour slow cook is crucial for developing rich, complex flavors.
- Use fresh vegetables for maximum taste: Crisp bell peppers, onions, and celery make a significant difference.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to your spice preference: Start with less and add more if needed.
- For an even more authentic touch, serve with file powder sprinkled on top or use fresh okra for added texture.
- Leftover gumbo often tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make a big batch!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 55mg
