Cheesy Shrimp Bacon Skillet (Print Format)
A hearty skillet with shrimp, sausage, bacon, and melted cheese for a rich, comforting dinner in minutes.
# Ingredients:
→ Seafood
01 -
8 oz peeled and deveined shrimp
→ Meats
02 -
7 oz smoked sausage, sliced
03 -
6 to 8 slices bacon, chopped
→ Vegetables and Aromatics
04 -
1 small onion, finely chopped
05 -
2 to 3 garlic cloves, minced
→ Dairy
06 -
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
07 -
1½ to 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend)
→ Oils and Seasonings
08 -
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
09 -
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
10 -
Red pepper flakes (optional)
→ Garnish
11 -
Chopped parsley or green onions (optional)
# Steps:
01 -
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy and browned. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving rendered fat in the pan.
02 -
Add sliced smoked sausage to the skillet with bacon fat and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until edges are browned. Remove and set aside with bacon.
03 -
If needed, add 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet. Add chopped onion and cook about 3 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
04 -
Add peeled, deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until shrimp turn pink and are just cooked through. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
05 -
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in shredded cheese a handful at a time, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
06 -
Return cooked bacon and sausage to the skillet. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly with cheese sauce and heat for 2 to 3 minutes to blend flavors.
07 -
Serve hot directly from the skillet, optionally over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for freshness.
# Tips:
01 -
Use a blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack for optimal melting and flavor.
02 -
Avoid overcooking shrimp; remove as soon as they turn pink to keep them tender.
03 -
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve sauce texture.