What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade gumbo recipe is packed with flavor and easy to make, perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks. You’ll love how it brings warmth and comfort to your table. The dish is hearty and filling, with tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a rich, savory broth. It’s customizable, so you can tweak the spice level or add your favorite veggies. Plus, it’s a great way to impress friends and family with a taste of the South!
Recipe
Gumbo is a beloved Southern dish known for its rich, flavorful broth and hearty ingredients. This homemade gumbo recipe combines a mix of meats, vegetables, and spices to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 pound chicken thighs, boneless and skinless, cut into pieces
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine flour and oil over medium heat to make a roux. Stir constantly for 15-20 minutes until it reaches a dark brown color.
- Add onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic to the roux. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in sausage and chicken. Cook for 5 minutes until meat is browned.
- Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Add bay leaves, Cajun seasoning, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add shrimp and cook for 5-7 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Stir in green onions and parsley. Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Serve hot over cooked rice.
Notes:
For a thicker gumbo, simmer longer. Adjust spice levels to taste.
Equipment:
Large pot or Dutch oven, stirring spoon
Time:
Prep time: 20 minutes, Cooking time: 1 hour
Cuisine:
Southern, American
Serving:
6-8 servings
Nutrition
Homemade gumbo is a hearty dish that provides a variety of nutrients. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
What To Serve With It
I love thinking about what to pair with gumbo, as it really brings the meal together. A side of fluffy white rice is my go-to, but cornbread or a fresh green salad also work wonders. Don’t forget a cold drink, like sweet tea or lemonade, to balance the rich flavors!
Side Dishes
Since gumbo’s rich, hearty flavors can stand on their own, you don’t need much to round out the meal—but the right sides make it even better. I love serving it with fluffy white rice, which soaks up all that delicious broth. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness, while buttery cornbread adds a sweet, crumbly contrast. For something extra, try pickled okra or a quick slaw for crunch. These sides keep the focus on the gumbo but add just enough variety to keep every bite interesting. Trust me, they’re game-changers!
Perfect Pairings
When it comes to gumbo, finding the right pairings can elevate the whole meal, making it feel even more special. I love serving it with fluffy white rice to soak up that rich, flavorful broth. A side of crispy cornbread or buttery biscuits adds the perfect crunch and comfort. For freshness, I’ll toss a simple salad or steam some green beans. And don’t forget a cold drink—sweet tea or even a light beer pairs wonderfully. Sometimes, I’ll offer a tangy coleslaw to balance the gumbo’s depth. These pairings make every bite feel like a celebration of flavor and texture.
