Gumbo – Family Style is the perfect comforting meal for busy weeknights! This dish combines flavorful and spicy sausage, succulent chicken, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables, simmered to perfection in a rich broth. It’s simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe when you need something quick, filling, and delicious!
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients for Gumbo – Family Style
- How to Make Gumbo – Family Style
- Tips for Making Gumbo – Family Style
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing
- Reheating
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these gumbo recipes next!
- Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
- Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya
- Spicy Seafood Chowder
- Classic Chicken Noodle Soup
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Family Gatherings. This family-style gumbo is a crowd-pleaser, ideal for serving at parties or cozy dinners with loved ones. It brings everyone together around the table!
- Rich in Flavor. Loaded with a variety of spices and fresh ingredients, this gumbo packs a flavor punch that will warm you up from the inside out. Say goodbye to bland meals!
- Versatile Ingredients. You can easily customize this recipe based on what you have on hand, adding your favorite proteins or vegetables to make it your own!
Ingredients for Gumbo – Family Style
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Sausage: Andouille sausage offers a spicy kick that’s essential for authentic gumbo flavor. You can swap it for smoked sausage if preferred.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for tenderness and moisture. You can also use chicken breast if you prefer.
- Vegetables: A classic mix of bell peppers, onions, and celery create the base flavor. Don’t forget the garlic for that aromatic touch!
- Okra: Adds a unique texture and helps thicken the gumbo. If you dislike okra, you may omit it or substitute with another thickening agent.
- Spices: Cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaves enhance the gumbo’s rich flavor. Adjust based on your spice level preference.
- Chicken Broth: It’s the heart of the gumbo, adding depth to the dish. You can use homemade or store-bought broth.
- Rice: Serve over fluffy rice to absorb all the delightful flavors of the gumbo.
How to Make Gumbo – Family Style
- In a large pot, brown the sliced sausage over medium heat until slightly crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Add the diced chicken to the pot and cook until browned. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
- In the same pot, add diced onions, bell peppers, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the sliced okra, cajun seasoning, thyme, and bay leaves, cooking for another 3-4 minutes.
- Return the sausage and chicken to the pot, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for at least 30-40 minutes.
- Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.
- Serve over cooked rice and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Tips for Making Gumbo – Family Style
- Don’t Rush the Roux: A key component for flavor; make sure to take your time cooking the roux until it’s a deep brown.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
- Make Ahead: Gumbo tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance!
Make-Ahead Instructions
- Prepare the gumbo up to the simmering stage, let it cool, and then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- You can also fully prepare gumbo and refrigerate it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Storing Leftovers
Leftover gumbo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain freshness.
Freezing Gumbo – Family Style
- Let the gumbo cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer resealable bags.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months for best flavor and texture.
Reheating Gumbo – Family Style
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
- If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
Can I use shrimp in this recipe?
Yes, shrimp can be added near the end of cooking to prevent overcooking.
What can I serve with gumbo?
Gumbo is traditionally served with rice, but also pairs well with cornbread or side salads.
Can I make gumbo in advance?
Absolutely! Gumbo can be made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to deepen.
What’s the difference between gumbo and jambalaya?
Gumbo is a soup-like dish while jambalaya is a one-pot rice dish with meat and vegetables.
Can I freeze gumbo?
Yes, gumbo freezes well and can be kept for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.
