This is a quick and easy version of one of my favorite dishes- shrimp paella. I’m not going to keep you waiting. The secret ingredient is SALSA!
Gather This
While this isn’t the most authentic paella recipe, I made an ingredient hack to cut down on some time and ingredients! A full list of ingredients with measurements for this recipe is available in the printable recipe card below.
- Andouille sausage – Although this is a shrimp paella, I also like to add sausage to mine for flavor. Either chorizo or andouille work well.
- Saffron – Saffron is one ingredient that makes paella, well, paella. It is an expensive spice but it is a “must” for authentic flavor and color.
- Arborio rice – Paella is made with bomba rice, but this can be tricky to find in a regular grocery store so the next best bet is arborio, traditionally used for making risotto. Both are shirt, fat grains that easily soak up liquids (and flavor).
- Olive oil
- Thick and chuny salsa
- Chicken broth
- Coarse sea salt
- Ground black pepper
- Smoked paprika
- Large shrimp
- Frozen peas
- Lemon wedges
- Parsley
Make it A Meal
This shrimp paella is quite hearty on its own and could certainly suffice as an entire meal. However, if you are looking to add more vegetables to the table, try serving with a side of broccoli, green beans or even a nice side salad.
The rice is usually enough starch for me, but if you’re craving more try serving with some potatoes. Dinner rolls are always a nice touch too!
Easy Shrimp Paella
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound andouille sausage , cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 1/2 cups arborio rice
- 1 1/2 cups thick and chunky salsa
- 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon saffron , optional
- 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 pound large shrimp , peeled and deveined
- 1 cup frozen peas
- lemon wedges , for serving
- parsley , for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the 1 tablespoon olive oil medium heat. Add the 1-inch cut 1 pound andouille sausage , sauteing until browned and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, remove the sausage and set aside.
- Stir the 1 1/2 cups arborio rice into the pan, tossing with the rendered oils. Brown, stirring every minute for 3-4 minutes. Stir in the 1 1/2 cups thick and chunky salsa, 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth , 1 teaspoon saffron (optional), 1/4 teaspoon coarse sea salt , 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper and 2 teaspoons smoked paprika.
- Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then cover the and reduce the heat to low. Cook for approximately 20 minutes.
- Uncover, adding the peeled and deveined 1 pound large shrimp and 1 cup frozen peas, tossing with a fork to fluff the rice and blend in the shrimp and peas. Recover and continue to cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Fluff again and if the shrimp are still translucent, cover and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Fluff again before serving, serving with fresh lemon wedges and chopped parsley, if desired.
- If you try this recipe, please come back and let us know how it was in the comments or star ratings.
Notes
Nutrition
Storage and Freezing
Store all leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Sure! Follow my tips for the best freezing practices. Freeze in individual airtight containers for your own healthy TV dinners. See my notes above about reheating.
More Easy Seafood Recipes
We love seafood recipes at our house. If you do too, check out some of our favorites.
We absolutely loved it. Will definitely be my go to for a quick delicious meal.
Such an easy idea for a delicious paella! Love it!
Thank you so much for the recipe of Shrimp Paella and your detailed explanations. I remember that I made some paella once, and it did not turn right. Hope this time I will succeed!
I love that this dish takes so little time and so little ingredients! It looks so tasty!
One pan and quick and easy are key in our household. This one is a keeper!
This shrimp paella is delicious and I love that it can be made in around 30 minutes! A new weeknight fave!
Such wonderful flavors and so easy to make. This is a perfect meal for a weeknight.