Grandma’s Jambalaya

Grandma’s Jambalaya is a delightful dish that brings warmth and flavor to any table. Perfect for family gatherings or meal prep, this recipe combines tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and flavorful sausage with a medley of vegetables and spices. With its high protein content and comforting taste, Grandma’s Jambalaya is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort and time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor-Packed: Each bite is bursting with savory goodness from the combination of meats and spices.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it for lunch, dinner, or even as part of your meal prep for the week.
• Healthy Option: With its high protein content and low fat from lean meats, it’s a nutritious choice.
• Great for Leftovers: This dish stores well, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals throughout the week.

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Tools and Preparation

To make Grandma’s Jambalaya successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 13 x 9 inch baking pan
• Aluminum foil
• Large mixing spoon
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• 13 x 9 inch baking pan: This size is perfect for holding all the ingredients while ensuring even cooking.
• Aluminum foil: Covering the dish during baking retains moisture, making your jambalaya juicy.
• Large mixing spoon: A sturdy spoon helps combine all ingredients easily without spills.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor balance in your jambalaya.

Ingredients

Proteins

• 1/2 pound chicken breast, cooked and shredded (Weighed raw)
• 1/2 pound shrimp
• 1 container (336g) Jalapeño Turkey sausage, HEB brand (only 3.5g fat per serving)

Grains & Vegetables

• 3/4 cup white rice
• 3 green bell peppers, weighed 375g

Liquids & Sauces

• 1 8oz can Tomato sauce
• 1 can of Mushroom stems and pieces, drained
• 1 can beef broth
• 1 can Campbell’s French onion soup

Seasonings

• Tony Charchere’s Seasoning, S&P, Tabasco Sauce

Extras

• 1 bag cauliflower rice

How to Make Grandma’s Jambalaya

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your jambalaya cooks evenly from start to finish.

Step 2: Prepare Ingredients

Dump all ingredients except sausage and shrimp into a sprayed 13 x 9 pan:
1. Add cooked shredded chicken.
2. Pour in shrimp.
3. Combine with sliced green bell peppers, tomato sauce, mushroom pieces, beef broth, French onion soup, rice, and seasonings.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Stir everything together until well mixed. Ensure that all ingredients are evenly distributed in the pan.

Step 4: Add Sausage

Top the mixture with sliced turkey sausage. This will add additional flavor as it cooks.

Step 5: Cover and Bake

Cover the pan with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for an hour and a half.

Step 6: Add Shrimp

With about 20 to 25 minutes remaining on the timer, remove the foil carefully. Add shrimp on top of the jambalaya:
– Press them down gently into the mixture to ensure they cook properly.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Once done baking, check if there’s excess liquid:
– If so, remove the lid and let sit for an hour; this allows any extra liquid to absorb into the dish before serving.

Enjoy your hearty Grandma’s Jambalaya! This recipe serves five people—perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for busy days ahead.

How to Serve Grandma’s Jambalaya

Grandma’s Jambalaya is a hearty and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

Serve with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh herbs adds color and enhances the flavor, making your jambalaya even more appetizing.

Pair with Cornbread

• Homemade cornbread: This classic Southern side complements the spicy flavors of jambalaya and adds a comforting touch to your meal.

Accompany with a Garden Salad

• Mixed greens: A light salad with your favorite veggies provides a refreshing contrast to the rich jambalaya, balancing the meal perfectly.

Top with Hot Sauce

• Spicy kick: If you enjoy heat, drizzle some extra hot sauce over your serving for an added burst of flavor.

Include a Side of Pickles

• Tangy crunch: A few pickles on the side can cut through the richness of the jambalaya, providing a delightful tang.

How to Perfect Grandma’s Jambalaya

To make sure your Grandma’s Jambalaya turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Use quality ingredients: Opt for fresh shrimp and high-quality sausage to enhance the overall flavor of your dish.
• Adjust seasoning wisely: Taste as you go! Add Tony Chachere’s seasoning gradually to find your perfect spice level.
• Don’t rush the cooking time: Allowing ample time for baking ensures that flavors meld beautifully and the rice cooks thoroughly.
• Let it rest before serving: After baking, let the jambalaya sit covered for about 10 minutes to absorb excess liquid and improve texture.

Best Side Dishes for Grandma’s Jambalaya

Serving Grandma’s Jambalaya alongside complementary dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up flavorful juices from the jambalaya.
2. Coleslaw: This crunchy side offers a refreshing contrast and a nice balance to the spicy dish.
3. Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains add a delightful sweetness that pairs well with savory jambalaya.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted veggies brings additional nutrients and colors to your plate.
5. Cucumber Salad: This light salad cools down the palate while adding crispness.
6. Rice Pilaf: For a different rice option, serve pilaf seasoned with herbs for variety in texture and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grandma’s Jambalaya, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls and tips to avoid them.

• Boldly skip prep work: Not prepping your ingredients can lead to a chaotic cooking experience. Always chop veggies and measure out spices before starting.
• Boldly ignore timing: Underestimating bake time might leave your jambalaya undercooked. Follow the recipe closely for perfect results.
• Boldly overlook seasoning: Forgetting to season your dish can make it bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings for maximum flavor.
• Boldly rush adding shrimp: Adding shrimp too early can result in overcooking. Wait until the last 20-25 minutes of baking for juicy shrimp.
• Boldly skip resting time: Not letting your jambalaya rest after baking can result in excess liquid. Allow it to sit for an hour to absorb flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Grandma’s Jambalaya in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Grandma’s Jambalaya

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It will last for up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grandma’s Jambalaya

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat covered for about 20-25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Grandma’s Jambalaya.

What makes Grandma’s Jambalaya special?

Grandma’s Jambalaya is special because it combines family traditions with rich flavors, creating a comforting meal that brings everyone together.

Can I customize Grandma’s Jambalaya?

Absolutely! You can add different proteins like sausage or vegetables based on your preference. This recipe is versatile!

How do I adjust spices in Grandma’s Jambalaya?

You can easily adjust the spiciness by adding more or less seasoning. Start with a little and taste as you go.

Is Grandma’s Jambalaya healthy?

Yes! With lean proteins and plenty of vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying while being low in calories.

Final Thoughts

Grandma’s Jambalaya is not just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and memories that bring comfort to any table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients or adjust the spices for an extra kick. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty dish that’s perfect for meal prep or family dinners!